THC-O: What You Need to Know

Overview of THC-O

For quite some time now, CBD has been very popular as a lot of people have decided to use cannabinoids that have psychoactive effects. THC-O are one of them. This kind of THC may be more potent than other ingredients of cannabis.

The increase of users of THC-O has made it important to look closer at some of the risks that go along with using this particular cannabinoid. The probability for abuse is high and there is very little research linked to it. It has been to known to have some serious side effects.

With that being said, it is important to know what to do if you find yourselves in trouble with THC-O.

Importance of Understanding THC-O

Some are baffled when discovering about a cannabinoid that is supposedly three times more potent than THC. Others look at it as a good thing. Regardless, anyone that has an interest in this healing, cutting edge alternative should know that its marginal mind-altering derivative of cannabis may be up to 300% more powerful than the already potent THC.

Inquisitive pot users, move with caution. Although you can purchase THC-O online, it is debatable whether or not it is safe. However, the potential of a cannabinoid that contains such strength may be a considered a godsend for more than just long-time pot smokers. Many may consider this potent variation of medicine a heavenly cure-all.

What is THC-O?

Definition and Explanation

When you hear people talking about THC-O, they typically are making reference to THC-O acetate. THC-O is naturally manufactured externally, even though THC is derivative from hemp just like CBD. Many chemicals are used in the process of producing THC-O and needs certain tools to do so.

Delta 8 THC is removed first from the hemp plant. Then, that substance gets mixed with acetic anhydride which produces THC-O. You may be wondering why would anyone go to all that trouble just to make this particular substance when you can get THC naturally? Reports early on state that THC-O may be more potent than THC, which could mean that its effects are much more powerful.

There is much more important research to be done, however, it does seem that some THC-O users are drawn to its influential effects. But more powerful effects can mean more adverse side effects as well.

 Chemical Composition of THC-O

Chemical composition of THC-O is changing CBD into either delta-8 or delta-9, then changing those cannabinoids into acetate ester form, called THC-O. Studies have shown that when proper heat is applied to THC-O, a hazardous toxicant called ketene is formed.

The danger comes from the interaction of heat to the acetate form of different chemicals which include THC, not by cannabis or vaping alone. Actually, any acetate ester that is exposed to heat can yield ketene.

It is possible, but not certain that the amount of ketene that is produced by vaping would be sufficient to cause danger right away. Damage to the lungs may happen with small exposures if repeated.

It is highly recommended that cannabis users do not smoke or vape THC-O or any acetate form of cannabinoids.

THC-O tinctures and gummies do not have the same risks for your health.

Differences between THC-O and Delta-9-THC

THC-O does not occur naturally in either hemp plants or cannabis as does delta-9 THC. THC-O is derived from hemp but manufactured in a lab using a process that is called acetylating. Extracts of Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC are processed, to set the stage for the compounds of THC-O to do their amazing benefits when consumed.

How THC-O Interacts with the Body

Endocannabinoid System (ECS) Overview

Our bodies have transmitter systems like the well-known sympathetic nervous system which provides the fight or flight response. A less likely known system is the endocannabinoid system which happens to be the most amazing system in our bodies as it is vitally important for just about every aspect of our minute-to-minute functioning such as sleep, learning, emotional processing, pain control, immune responses, eating, immune and inflammatory responses, temperature control and memory.

Binding Mechanism of THC-O with ECS Receptors

There are molecules produced by the body that are comparable to cannabinoids called endogenous cannabinoids.

There are two important endocannabinoids that experts have discovered:

• 2-arachidonoylglyerol (2-AG)
• anandamide (AEA)

These two helps keep internal functions to run efficiently. As you need them, your body produces them. It can make it hard to know what distinctive levels are for each.

Endocannabinoid receptors

You can find endocannabinoid receptors all through the body. Endocannabinoids adhere to the receptors to indicate that the endocannabinoid system needs to act.

The two key receptors are CB1 which are typically found within the central nervous system and CB2 receptors which are located in the peripheral nervous system, particularly immune cells.

Either receptor can adhere to endocannabinoids. The end result will depend on where the receptor is positioned and which endocannabinoid it adheres to.

Examples would be, if CB1 receptors were targeted then it would most likely be for pain relief. If adhered CB2 receptors in the immune cells you would likely be experiencing inflammation or signs of an autoimmune disorder.

Effects of THC-O on Neurotransmitters and Brain Activity

THC and CBD have a chemical construction similar to the body’s natural endocannabinoids which are neurotransmitters acting in the brain.

Neurotransmitters have a vital part in a range of functions such as mood, sleep, the immune system, appetite and pain as they are chemical messengers that transmit signals between the nerve cells in your body.

 THC and CBD have the same molecular construction. However, there are variances in how the molecules are organized that are in charge for the different effects they have. They adhere with receptors and cause diverse effects in your body by imitating endocannabinoids.

Potential Benefits of THC-O

Pain Management and Relief

THC and CBD are known to help manage and relieve pain. Because THC contains psychoactive effects, it might provide more instant relief from pain. Inflammation can be reduced with CBD, which can help with effectiveness long term. There is evidence that states taking both THC and CBD may provide the best pain relief than taking THC by itself.

Does THC-O Help Manage Pain?

Although there are not any studies that prove THC-O can help manage or relieve pain, it does not mean that the cannabinoid does not characteristically contain these abilities. Delta-9 has common qualities with THC-O and like several cannabinoids it does provide a balance of analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity which may have a part in relieving pain.

Anxiety and Stress Reduction

As stated before, there are ongoing studies for the possible health benefits of THC-O. It is certain according to users that THC-O can help anxiety and stress.

Benefits can be different for each individual. Some state they feel less anxious and stressed, while others state they eat better and have better sleep patterns.

Appetite Stimulation

THC can increase your appetite because it partially binds to and activates the CB1 receptor. THC is one of the key active ingredients of cannabis and is responsible for causing the munchies.

The way you consume THC can influence food choices and food intake as well as the nature and amount of the products ingested simultaneously.

Sleep Aid

Hemp has been known to help insomnia, and studies have shown that many cannabinoids have      sleep-enhancing properties through the connections with the endocannabinoid system. Although there is not a lot known about THC-O acetate other than it causing a high, however, the understanding of THC composites along with reports of THC-O product users, it is reasonable to say it could very well help those that suffer from insomnia.

Commonly used for sleeplessness is THC, therefore it would not be that far of a reach to propose that THC-O can provide the same benefits and possibly more effectively because if its

Potential Medical Applications

Users of THC-O say that is does help to relieve anxiety, pain and increase appetite.

THC-O is three times stronger than delta-9 THC and five times stronger than delta-8. Fans of cannabis are prone to THC-O acetate as it absorbs easily in the body and provides a strong psychotropic high.

Some of the benefits of THC-O are:

• Supports sleep
• Increases appetite
• Relieves stress
• Enhances creativity
• Elation
• Relieves pain
• Helps to relax