What comes to mind when you think of cannabinoids?
Probably the big ones like THC or CBD. These are just the tip of the iceberg, though, as there are many different types of THC and secondary cannabinoids that each have its place in your self-care regimen.
You’ve probably seen the acronyms THCO and THCP on cartridge labels, menu boards, and online shops. But what’s the difference between THCP and THCO, and which is right for you?
Both newcomers pack more punch than classic Delta-9 THC, but they’re far from identical. Should you chase THCO’s “octane boost” or THCP’s legendary receptor binding? Our comparison of THCO vs THCP will help you narrow it down.
Overview of THCO
Tetrahydrocannabinol acetate (THCO for short) is a modified form of THC created by adding an acetyl group to the parent molecule. That small chemical tweak makes THCO more lipophilic, so it can cross the blood-brain barrier more efficiently than standard Delta-9 THC.
Users say it feels pretty similar to traditional cannabis, with effects hitting fast and hard. But where the experience takes a turn is in how the plateau feels more dreamlike and relaxing, stretching out for hours.
Cartridges and tinctures stay potent and flavorful longer than distillate THC because THCO resists oxidation. However, the acetate group can introduce unknown byproducts when heated, so you need to be really careful with where you source THCO products.
Overview of THCP
Now, let’s introduce the other half of our THCO vs THCP comparison. This cannabinoid, short for tetrahydrocannabiphorol, first popped up on the scene in 2019 when Italian researchers discovered it binding to CB1 receptors up to 33 times stronger than Delta-9 THC.
This is all thanks to its extended seven-carbon side chain. But does THCP get you high? Big time! THCP can deliver a head-spinning rush followed by profound body relaxation, even in microgram doses.
Its effects lean more physical than cerebral, often described as a warm, heavy embrace that can easily veer into couch-lock territory. THCP typically appears in crystalline or “diamond” form, recombined with strain-specific terpenes to preserve flavor.
Is THCP safe? Yes, but we don’t typically recommend it for beginners because of its elevated potency. It can be quite overwhelming if you’re not used to strong highs.
THCO vs THCP: Key Differences to Consider
There’s room in your regimen for all the cannabinoids found in hemp, as each has its place. But that doesn’t mean one isn’t a better match for your preferences between THCO vs THCP. Let’s start with the biggest difference: which is stronger?
Is THCO vs THCP Stronger?
It’s tempting to assume THCP’s higher receptor affinity always translates to a stronger high, but the story is nuanced. It’s true that THCP often outpaces THCO in sheer intensity at equivalent milligram doses, especially regarding the body high.
But, THCO’s altered chemistry means it can feel deceptively powerful even with slightly higher doses. Some people measure their tolerance in full milligrams rather than fractions. Either way, you’re getting a stronger effect than you would with traditional Delta-9 THC.
Onset and Duration
There is also a difference between THCO vs THCP in terms of which acts faster.
- THCO hits quickly: you’ll feel a noticeable head rush within seconds of inhalation. That initial wave transitions into a mellow plateau that can last anywhere from three to five hours, with a lingering afterglow into the evening.
- THCP’s arrival is a bit more gradual. People say it builds steadily over one to two minutes. Once it peaks (typically around 15 minutes post-inhale), the effects hold firm for two to three hours, followed by a gentle comedown.
Psychoactive Profile
THCO often tastes and feels smoother, as its acetate group mutes the harsher edges of THC while intensifying overall relaxation. Many describe it as a “psychedelic lite” experience, with mild visual distortions and a mellow headspace.
THCP, on the other hand, delivers a more classic THC euphoria but on steroids. It’ll feel like your favorite marijuana high but with sharper sensory enhancement, deeper introspection, and stronger muscle relaxation.
Safety and Legality
Both THCO and THCP sit in a somewhat legal gray area. THCO’s acetate modification raises questions about byproducts when vaporized, so you have to choose trusted manufacturers with rigorous third-party testing and solvent-screen reports.
The same can be said for THCP, which is natural but still gets looked at with increased scrutiny for its heightened potency. Some jurisdictions have already moved to treat it like a controlled substance.
Wrapping Up Our Comparison
THCO and THCP represent next-level cannabis experiences, but as we’ve laid out in this comparison, they’re quite different.
THCO hits fast, lasts longer, and works great for a deep unwind without the sharp edges. THCP stands out for its sheer intensity and profound body relaxation, best suited to microdosing and expert users.
If you want to learn more about the wide world of cannabinoids, our blog has similar comparisons of THCP vs Delta-9, THCO vs THCA, or HHC vs THCO.
We have tons of great THCP products for you, but we don’t carry THCO at this time. So, your choice between THCO vs THCP just got a whole lot easier!
