THC is relatively well known to the broad public as it’s the cannabinoid compound responsible for the psychoactive effects that people experience when subjected to its influence (also known as the “high.”) THC is found in hemp plants (like marijuana) and is used for various purposes, including medical use.
Although science and the general public know quite a fair share about the THC compound, not many heard about the THC-O and Delta-8 or Delta-9 THC compounds. And it’s about to change because THC-O and Delta-8 have a lot to offer and are gaining more interest from consumers.
There is still a lot we need to learn about cannabinoid compounds in general, and using any of them for medical-related or recreational purposes should always be done with caution. The good news is that science also tries to find the answers to how these substances can be beneficial for us and what are the potential long-term effects of using them.
This topic is relevant, especially now when so many individuals are looking for alternative methods of addressing some ailments like chronic pain, inflammation, or tiredness. Many of us look for the answers in nature and herbs that have been known to humankind for millennia.
THC is one naturally occurring hemp compound, but the same cannot be said about THC-O. What exactly is THC-O, and how different is it from Delta-8?
What Is THC-O and Where Does it Come From?
THC-O acetate, which is its full name, comes from hemp plants. The process of making THC-O starts with the CBD that is converted to Delta-8. Delta-8 has a milder effect than THC, but it all changes when we add acetic anhydride to it. During that process, Delta-8 is transformed into THC-O. Before that happens, though, the solution needs to be refined to remove any extra chemicals.
Adding Acetic anhydride to Delta-8 is a process that happens under strict laboratory conditions. It’s due to the fact that the Acetic anhydride is highly dangerous to handle without the professional equipment and experienced staff (it’s very corrosive and flammable). Anyone who thinks about making a “homemade” THC-O should quickly abandon these plans and look for safe and high-quality THC-O products available on the market instead.
When comparing THC-O vs. Delta-8 and other delta compounds, we can look at the aspects like their effects, benefits, and potency. Before we do that, it might be helpful to learn more about the legal status of THC-O.
Is THC-O Legal?
With all hemp products, it is crucial to educate yourself on their legality before making any purchases. Unfortunately, in the case of the United States, federal law and state laws are not consistent when it comes to hemp derivatives, like products containing THC.
In some states, the recreational use of marijuana is permitted, in others, only medical marijuana is considered legal. Federal law prohibits all the products containing more than 0,3% of THC compound.
When it comes to the THC-O, the situation is also unclear. On the one hand, it is a hemp-derived THC obtained from a naturally occurring hemp compound (Delta-8); on the other hand, there are some synthetic elements involved. It is uncertain whether the THC-O is viewed as a “synthetic THC” under federal law. If so, THC-O would be seen as a controlled and illegal substance.
These discrepancies in federal law versus state laws make it rather difficult to say with certainty whether THC-O is legal to use or not. It is advised to always familiarize yourself with the state law you’re currently in about the legality of all hemp-derived products.
What Are the Key Differences Between THC-O and Delta-8?
To fully understand the potential of THC-O, it is valuable to look at it within the context of comparing THC compounds, especially THC-O, to the one it’s originating from, which is Delta-8 THC. When we look at them through this lens, we notice some interesting things.
Is THC-O stronger than Delta 8? Here are some key points in which these THC compounds differ.
Potency
One of the first things one can learn about THC-O when searching the net is that THC-O is much more potent than other cannabinoids. It’s much stronger than Delta-8, although it is derived from it.
Delta-8 is thought to be 60% as potent as traditional Delta-9-THC. That tells us that Delta-8 is already much more potent than traditional THC. However, THC-O is thought to be even three times stronger than Delta-9-THC. This means that we will be dosing THC-O much differently than other hemp-derived cannabinoids. It also influences how and in what way THC-O affects the human body.
THC-O’s potency is a good reason to be responsible when it comes to using it. The first research on the THC-O and its effects was conducted in the 1940s in the American Military. Researchers were analyzing the effects of THC-O on dogs. At the end of these tests, dogs lost a significant portion of their motor function. Like any other substance, THC-O can lead to serious side effects when being misused. That is why it is so important to dose the THC-O products properly.
Effects
All the enthusiasts of cannabinoid products will want to know what effects the THC-O and Delta-8 cause. As to be expected, the effects of both compounds are not the same, as one is much stronger than the other.
Delta-8 is relatively mild and can cause the feeling of euphoria and relaxation. In some cases, it can have some sedative effects as well. It’s much more similar to Delta-9 THC, so it might be more suitable for people who haven’t had many experiences with cannabinoids.
However, the THC-O is significantly stronger and causes heightened mental and spiritual awareness, hallucinations, psychedelic high, feelings of euphoria, etc. It’s closer to other psychedelics than traditional THC or CBD products.
It’s vital to remember that various chemicals will affect people differently, so it’s something to be mindful of when using THC-O or Delta-8.
Potential Benefits
A lot has been said about the benefits of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids on the human body. Many consumers use the hemp products for self-care, to help mitigate some unpleasant symptoms, or sometimes, like in the case of medicinal marijuana, to adress more serious conditions and manage the pain levels.
CBD is especially popular as a supplement. Many users report feeling more relaxed, having a better night’s sleep, and having an overall better mood after taking CBD. On the other hand, we’re still waiting for hard proof to verify all these claims and research potential side effects of CBD as well as THC products.
It is assumed (based on the research that we do have) that both Delta-8 and THC-O may have some therapeutic benefits, but it’s way to soon to confirm it. We need more research to find all the answers regarding the usage and long-term effects of different cannabinoids.
The particularly interesting is their application in medicine. For example, there are some papers published on the potential positive effects of CBD against such conditions as cancer or migraine. If ever confirmed, THC, Delta-8, and THC-O can potentially have anti-inflammatory properties, and help with pain relief, mood swings, insomnia, and other conditions.
Purpose
Given the fact that THC-O and Delta-8 have such different effects, the circumstances in which they are being used may also vary. While both are most likely used recreationally, THC-O has a much bigger potential to stay in this category for longer. Unlike CBD, which can be treated as a supplement taken with coffee or smoothie, THC-O has strong mind-altering effects.
With time, as we learn more and more about potential health benefits connected with the usage of cannabinoids, we will likely see more commonly an application of the THC-O and Delta-8 in medications and as supplements for different treatments.
Price
It is also easy to spot that the THC-O products are more expensive than Delta-8-based products. Why is that? The simple answer is that the THC-O is more complicated to make. As we mentioned earlier, THC-O is derived from Delta-8, which means the producer has to make that additional step in order to covert Delta-8 into THC-O.
However, the important factor to consider is that THC-O is much more potent than Delta-8. The higher price is justified, as you won’t go through the THC-O product as quickly as you would with Delta-8.
How to take THC-O and Delta-8?
You will find products containing only THC-O or Delta-8, but it’s not uncommon to find specifics that have both compounds. It makes sense, as one is made from the other, so it’s relatively easy to mix them with each other.
Additionally, since THC-O has such potent effects, there is a higher likelihood of overdosage, so it’s safer for consumers to have access to a slightly milder product that has more similar effects to regular THC.
On the market, one can find products containing THC-O and/or Delta-8, such as
- THC-O gummies
- Oils and other materials for vape cartridges
- Capsules
- Flowers
- Oils for oral consumption
- Different products in edible form (chocolate, drinks, etc.)
Is THC-O Safe?
Before purchasing THC-O, it might be beneficial to educate yourself on the potential risks involved with using products containing this compound. The effects of THC-O can be quite intense, but the THC-O is considered to be a prodrug. This is incredibly important to be aware of.
Prodrugs need some time to start properly working. In the case of THC-O, it is usually around 30 minutes. At this time, there is a significant risk of overdose by individuals who are under the impression that they took too little of a product and won’t feel its effects. It is vital always to follow the instructions of a producer and don’t go beyond the allowed dosage.
Another risk to be mindful of is the fact that THC-O products are almost always synthetic. Like any other product, they can cause allergic reactions, so it’s always advisable to read through their composition.
Unfortunately, these products are not FDA approved, which means an individual has little control over what they are actually taking, as it’s not always possible to get access to all the information about the composition and the making process of these specifics.
Where to Purchase THC-O?
Considering the situation of THC-O and Delta-8 THC, their legality, and potential risks involved with using them, it is best to purchase these products from trustworthy producers, always with regard to the current legal restrictions in your state.
For your safety, it is best to choose the company with clear lab results, transparency, and good reviews from other customers.
Final Thoughts
Delta-8 and THC-O are both cannabinoids. The critical distinction is that THC-O is made from Delta-8. They provide two different experiences for users, but there are lots of products on the market that have both compounds mixed to reduce THC-O’s potency.
They sit in the gray area of law, so they should always be used with caution. They also have a big potential to be used in medicine in the future, but there is still a need for more research on this topic.
If you’re in the market for Delta-8, you can find the highest quality Delta-8 flowers on our website as well as other CBD and THC-related products for your enjoyment.
