What is THCB? Differences from delta-9 THC
The cannabis plant is rich with a variety of cannabinoids, each contributing to its unique effects and therapeutic potential.
While delta-9 THC is widely recognized as the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, THCB — or tetrahydrocannabiphorol — is an emerging cannabinoid with unique properties and distinct differences from delta-9 THC.
In this article, we’ll dive into what THCB is, how it interacts with the body, and its key differences from delta-9 THC.
What is THCB?
THCB is a relatively recent discovery in the world of cannabinoids.
In 2019, a team of Italian researchers from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia identified THCB alongside another new cannabinoid, CBDP (cannabidiphorol), in a study published in Scientific Reports.
THCB is structurally similar to THC but has a longer carbon chain — a seven-carbon side chain rather than the five-carbon chain found in delta-9 THC. This unique structure may be responsible for its distinctive effects and potency.
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Chemical Structure and Properties of THCB
THCB, like other cannabinoids, interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the body’s regulatory system that helps maintain balance in various physiological processes, including mood, appetite, and immune function. The seven-carbon chain of THCB allows it to bind more effectively to the ECS’s CB1 and CB2 receptors, especially the CB1 receptors in the brain, which are closely linked to psychoactive effects.
This high affinity for CB1 receptors gives THCB a potency that is potentially stronger than Delta-9 THC, although further research is needed to establish how it compares in practice.
How Does THCB Work?
The endocannabinoid system is made up of two primary receptors: CB1 receptors, primarily found in the brain and central nervous system, and CB2 receptors, located mainly in the immune system and peripheral tissues.
THCB’s high affinity for CB1 receptors suggests that it may produce psychoactive effects similar to those of delta-9 THC, but potentially with a stronger or faster onset.
Due to its structure, THCB may bind to CB1 receptors more effectively, leading to pronounced psychoactive effects. However, research on THCB’s specific interactions within the ECS is still in the early stages, and its precise effects, potency, and therapeutic applications require further study.
What are the main differences between THCB and delta-9 THC?
While THCB and Delta-9 THC share similar properties and bind to the same receptors in the ECS, there are notable differences in their chemical structures and effects.
Chemical structure
One of the fundamental differences between THCB and Delta-9 THC lies in their side chains. THCB has a seven-carbon side chain, while delta-9 THC has a five-carbon chain. This difference in carbon chain length may seem small, but it significantly affects how each cannabinoid interacts with the ECS.
Studies on cannabinoids with longer carbon chains, such as THCB, suggest that they may bind more tightly to CB1 receptors, potentially resulting in stronger psychoactive effects.
Potency and psychoactive effects
Due to its seven-carbon chain, THCB is believed to be more potent than delta-9 THC in terms of psychoactivity. Some users report that THCB provides a stronger, faster-onset experience, although more controlled studies are needed to confirm these effects.
The potency of THCB could be especially relevant for individuals seeking high-intensity effects. However, because of this increased potency, THCB may also present a higher risk of adverse effects in some users, particularly those who are sensitive to THC or prone to tension with high-THC products.
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Therapeutic potential
Both THCB and delta-9 THC are known to offer therapeutic benefits, but research on THCB is still limited.
Preliminary findings suggest that THCB’s affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors may make it effective in supporting tension relief, appetite support, and sleep support. However, these potential benefits are largely speculative, and further studies are essential to fully understand how THCB can be used in medical contexts.
Delta-9 THC has also been widely studied for its therapeutic uses, including its effects on digestive support, discomfort relief, and appetite support. Delta-9 THC is well-documented, whereas THCB’s specific effects and applications remain largely unknown.
What are the potential benefits of THCB?
Though still under research, THCB shows potential in several areas of wellness:
1. Discomfort relief
Due to its high binding affinity with CB1 receptors, THCB may be effective in supporting relief from discomfort. Similar to delta-9 THC, it is thought that THCB could help alleviate discomfort by influencing signals in the brain and central nervous system.
2. Appetite support
Like delta-9 THC, THCB might support a healthy appetite. Cannabinoids that bind strongly to CB1 receptors often interact with hunger signals, which could make THCB beneficial for those who are dealing with low appetite.
3. Sleep support
Some preliminary research suggests that cannabinoids like THCB could support relaxation and promote restful sleep. By interacting with the ECS, THCB may play a role in sleep support by calming the mind and body.
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4. Cognitive support
Early studies suggest that cannabinoids with a strong CB1 receptor affinity, such as THCB, may have supportive properties for the brain. These properties can potentially aid in maintaining brain health by supporting healthy brain cells.
What are the potential side effects of THCB?
Because THCB is more potent than delta-9 THC, users should be mindful of potential side effects, especially if they are sensitive to THC’s psychoactive effects.
Common side effects may include:
- Increased heart rate
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Anxiety or paranoia, especially in higher amounts
As with any cannabinoid, it’s important for users to start with a low amount to gauge their tolerance and monitor how THCB affects them individually. Further studies are required to confirm these potential side effects and establish safe serving guidelines.
What is the legal status of THCB vs. delta-9 THC?
THCB is a relatively new cannabinoid, and its legal status is still evolving. In many regions, THCB falls under the same legal restrictions as delta-9 THC, especially since it is classified as a psychoactive compound.
However, because it is newly discovered, some regions may not yet have specific regulations regarding THCB.
Delta-9 THC’s legality varies widely across the globe. In the United States, for example, delta-9 THC is federally classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, making it illegal at the federal level, though several states have legalized it for medical or recreational use. In contrast, hemp-derived delta-9 THC (with less than 0.3% concentration) is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill.
THCB vs. delta-9 THC: Which is right for you?
If you’re looking for a strong psychoactive experience, THCB may be the better choice due to its potentially greater potency. However, because THCB is still being researched, it’s crucial to approach it with caution and monitor serving sizes closely.
For therapeutic purposes, delta-9 THC may be the safer and more reliable option, as it has been extensively studied and is more widely available in regulated products. Delta-9 THC’s well-documented effects on pain, nausea, and appetite make it a viable option for those seeking relief from specific symptoms.
The bottom line
THCB is an exciting new discovery in the world of cannabinoids, offering a unique structure and potentially stronger effects than delta-9 THC. While it shares similarities with delta-9 THC, its longer carbon chain and stronger binding affinity for CB1 receptors set it apart, making it a potentially more potent option.
However, the research on THCB is still in its infancy, and more studies are needed to fully understand its benefits, effects, and safety. For now, those interested in THCB should approach it with caution and prioritize safety, as it may have side effects not yet fully understood.
With further research, THCB could open new possibilities for those interested in the unique effects of cannabinoids. For now, though, delta-9 THC remains the more accessible and well-studied option for those exploring cannabis’s potential in wellness.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources:
Discovery of THCB and CBDP | Nature.com
Cannabinoid Receptor Binding Affinities | NCBI
Medical Uses of THC | Harvard Health