What Is THC-O?

A new cannabinoid is on the horizon – but many questions remain about how it will fit into a regulatory framework

THC-O is a new cannabinoid in town – at least in the US. It is currently unknown in Europe. Three times stronger than THC, it also has psychedelic qualities – although this is far from a naturally occurring cannabinoid.

Extracted from hemp plants, it also takes several steps to create it. It is also a synthetic “analogue” of THC. As a result, there is a great deal of debate about whether it is safe or not.

How Is It Made?

Making THC-O is a three-step process. Cannabidiol must first be extracted from hemp. Then delta-8 must be extracted from the CBD. Finally, an organic solvent – acetic anhydride is applied to the delta-8 molecules. This removes all terpenes and flavonoids and leaves behind a flavor free, scentless, and thick oil which is essentially a THC isolate.

This isolate is highly bioavailable, meaning it is easily absorbed by the human body.

Is it “Legal?”

For now, the answer is yes and on a federal level in the US at least, but do not expect this to last – just as Delta-8 has also been increasingly regulated out of existence. THC-O is derived from hemp and contains no delta-9 THC. However, the potency and chemical composition suggests that this is also analogous to THC, and thus may very well fall into a Schedule I designation as soon as regulators catch up with the market.

How is it consumed?

Most of the available information suggests that THC-O should not be smoked but ingested orally as it must be metabolized to take effect. That said, it could be that this extract has potential uses in edibles.

Cannabis patients, with increasing tolerances might also find that this is a solution to effectively deal with pain management. Most chronic pain patients find that they must use increasing amounts of high THC cannabis to control their conditions.

Regardless, it should be consumed with caution. There is no scientific data available about its impact on the human body, and certainly not longer term.

Is it safe?

Right now, this is a cannabinoid on the forefront of cannabis science, which is also far ahead of conventional science. This puts THC-O in a long line of cannabinoids that have yet to be effectively studied.

Because it is extracted, it also requires a clean and professional extraction process.

Bottom line? This is a cannabinoid in progress. Stay tuned.