THC-O Frequently Asked Questions

THC-O is making waves in weed-friendly circles as a potentially psychedelic cannabinoid, but what should you believe? Our sources have some interesting things to say on the subject, so be sure to test the waters before diving right in. 

Key Takeaways

• THC-O-acetate is a semi-synthetic compound that's derived from the cannabinoid Delta 8 THC but undergoes additional processes.
• Claims that THC-O takes you on a psychedelic trip show some promise but may be exaggerated.
• THC-O may pose potential risks that a naturally occurring cannabinoid would not.

See Related: Hybrid Weed: What Is It And How To Use It

What Is THC-O or THC-O-Acetate?

These are two ways you can describe the same compound. THC-O is significantly more potent than traditional THC. Online forums and other sources frequently assess the strength of THC-O at two to three times the strength of Delta 9 THC.

As you likely know, THC is the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana. THC-O is a synthetically produced cannabinoid that is not naturally found in the cannabis plant. It's created through a chemical process that changes the molecular structure of THC.

What Is the Chemical Process That Creates THC-O?

THC-O, or THC-O acetate, is a synthetic cannabinoid that is not found naturally in the cannabis plant. It's created through a process known as acetylation, where acetic anhydride is added to THC (usually Delta 8 THC).

This process alters the molecular structure of THC, resulting in a compound that is significantly more potent.

By modifying the chemical structure, THC-O interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system in a unique way. The effects of THC-O are often described as a more intense experience as compared to regular THC.

Are There Concerns About Toxins With THC-O?

Yes, there do seem to be some concerns with THC-O when it comes to toxins. THC-O is the acetate ester form of THC. Studies have shown that, when heated, THC-O can break down and produce ketene gas.

Ketene is a toxic gas that can cause serious lung injury. However, this is potentially true for any acetate ester form of a substance that's exposed to heat, and not solely inherent to THC-O.

While THC-O-acetate is a compound of concern due to its potential to release ketene when heated, other acetate esters can also decompose and release this toxic gas under certain conditions.

It's important to note that the release of ketene from these substances is typically associated with high temperatures and specific conditions, such as those encountered in vaping devices.

Vitamin E acetate, commonly used as a thickening agent in vaping products, has been linked to the formation of ketene when heated. It's crucial to be aware of the broader issue of ketene formation from various acetate compounds.

Is This Chemical Compound (THC-O) Legal?

Over the last several years, many individual states have passed laws that lessened the enforcement of marijuana. Some states now allow for medical marijuana, while others have legalized all adult consumption of weed.

In the United States, the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp and products derived naturally from hemp plants. Some states subsequently enacted restrictions.

With hemp-derived cannabinoids no longer a controlled substance at the national level, the cannabis market exploded. Variations of Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC in various forms became available.

While THC-O is derived from hemp, which is federally legal in the US, its synthetic nature and potent effects have led to varying legal interpretations. However, it's important to note that THC-O-acetate isn't covered under the umbrella of hemp-derived products legalized in the Farm Bill.

Shouldn’t THC-O Be Legal Since It Comes From the Hemp Plant or Cannabis Plant?

As mentioned above, the Farm Bill was a game changer for the cannabis industry, especially Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC.

This shift in federal law led to a surge in both the popularity and availability of Delta 8 THC products since some consumers sought out alternative cannabinoids with milder psychoactive effects.

Others enjoyed the newly legal Delta 9 THC products. Delta 9 is the psychoactive component in marijuana responsible for the “high” feeling, though both Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC are psychoactive cannabinoids associated with relaxation and other therapeutic benefits.

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Although THC-O is technically a derivative of the cannabis or hemp plant, it does not occur naturally. As alluded to above, cannabis undergoes certain processes (namely, the addition of acetic anhydride).

To reiterate a point from earlier, synthetically produced cannabinoids aren't included in the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalizes other cannabinoids that are naturally occurring.

So, to answer the question, THC-O does not occur naturally and thus does not fall under the legal definition of hemp.

So, Is THC-O Legal in States Where Marijuana Is Legal?

Since THC-O does not naturally occur in hemp plants, it is not classified as a hemp-derived product. That makes its legal status questionable in each state.

Some states have explicitly banned THC-O, while others have not yet addressed it in specific legislation.

Even in states where recreational or medical marijuana is legal, the legality of THC-O may differ. It's crucial to check the specific laws in your state or region to determine which cannabis products are legal.

How Do People Describe the Positive Effects of THC-O?

THC-O affects everyone a little differently, as does Delta 9 THC and other kinds of cannabis products.

Many folks have shared that THC-O products give them an altered sense of time, a feeling of euphoria, pain relief, and relaxation. They suggest it offers a stronger sensation of these experiences than Delta 9 THC.

People have used it for pain relief, as they have with Delta 9 THC and other hemp-related products.

Some claim that THC-O is capable of producing psychedelic effects as well. Scientific studies haven't been able to back this up with statistically significant data.

Participants in one study who had previously used classic psychedelics reported lower scores on all dimensions of the Multidimensional Emotion Questionnaire. When asked directly, 79% responded that using THC-O is “not at all” or “a little” of a psychedelic experience.

It's probably safe to say that people consuming cannabinoids and smoking marijuana aren't going to let one academic paper be the singular voice about how long or how strange of a trip it's been with THC-O. Still, the results of that study and other reports are inconclusive about this particular effect.

What Are Some Negative Effects of THC-O?

People who have tried THC-O report some less-than-stellar experiences as well. There are often sensations of paranoia, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. Some even have hallucinations.

Due to the potentially high level of potency combined with a lack of research on its effects, many people express concern about this THC analog.

There is not enough data on THC-O-acetate ester to provide conclusive results about the purported psychedelic effects or the long-term health risks.

What Are the Different Ways to Consume THC-O?

One can consume THC-O in a few different ways. It comes in various forms, including gummies, chocolates, oils and more.

THC-O Vapes

THC-O can be vaporized using specialized devices. It's important to be aware of risks associated with smoking, like lung irritation and respiratory issues, especially with a higher potency product.

THC-O Edibles

THC-O can be infused into edibles like gummies, chocolates, and baked goods.

Compared to inhalation methods, it generally takes a little longer to feel the effects when you ingest THC (of any variety) orally. This is due to the fact that digestion through your gastrointestinal system takes longer than through the lungs, where absorption happens rapidly.

Remember that good things come to those who wait.

THC-O Tinctures

Liquid THC-O solutions can be administered orally. While the effects take longer to feel than with inhalation, they can last longer. For that reason, be sure to take it slow and easy.

When consuming hemp products such as edibles and tinctures, people often overdo it. Since they don't feel the effects immediately, they grow impatient and up the dosage.

Just remember that it takes time to kick in. Patience is a virtue, and potentially your pal when it comes to hemp-derived products. And it's especially true for a synthetic cannabinoid like THC-O.

In Summary

As with any substance, it's advisable to start with a low dose and gradually increase it to gauge your tolerance. It's crucial to approach THC-O with a good bit of care and be aware of the risks associated with its consumption.

Be sure to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and decide for yourself if you want to stick with the Delta 9 THC gummies you go to for that reliable relaxed high, or if you're set on something even stronger.

As already stated several times in this article, it's important to note that THC-O is synthetically produced. Its long-term effects and risks are not fully understood, so proceed with caution.

Keep Reading: Is Delta 9 THC Legal In Ohio?

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