- THCP is substantially more potent than Delta‑8 THC due to its ability to bind more strongly to CB1 receptors and often produces a strong, long-lasting “heavy” high.
- Delta-8 THC tends to deliver a milder, smoother, and manageable high that is clearer-headed, less intense, and often better suited for beginners or daytime use.
- Because of THCP’s strength, users should dose conservatively: a small amount may produce effects similar to much larger amounts of Delta-8.
What comes to mind when you think about getting high with cannabis? Probably THC, right? Well, Delta-9 THC is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to cannabis’s psychoactive potential.
Some find Delta-9 too strong, while others develop a tolerance and feel it’s not quite enough. Luckily, there are many different types of THC to try, and in this guide, we want to discuss the differences between THCP and Delta-8.
These two cannabinoids sit on opposite ends of the spectrum. THCP is extremely potent, while Delta-8 offers a much gentler experience.
What is THCP?
THCP (tetrahydrocannabiphorol) is a rare cannabinoid first identified in 2019. It occurs naturally in cannabis, but only in trace amounts, so most THCP products are made by converting hemp-derived CBD in lab-controlled processes.
Structurally, THCP resembles Delta-9 THC but has a longer side chain, consisting of seven carbon atoms instead of five. This allows it to bind more strongly to CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. A 2020 study in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that THCP showed significantly higher CB1 binding affinity than Delta-9 THC, helping explain why its effects feel so intense.
While it’s safe to use in most cases, THCP is not for beginners. Advanced users seeking intense effects often consider it a new favorite.
What is Delta-8?
Delta-8 THC is another cannabinoid found naturally in cannabis in small amounts. Most Delta-8 products are created by converting CBD through a process known as isomerization.
The difference lies in its molecular structure. Delta-8’s double bond is positioned differently than Delta-9’s, which leads to milder, smoother effects. Often referred to as “diet weed,” Delta-8 provides a clear-headed, functional high with less intensity than Delta-9 or THCP. Some users say Delta-8 also impacts their tolerance to Delta-9 in a positive way.
It’s especially popular among newcomers or anyone looking to take the edge off without overwhelming psychoactive effects.
A Side-by-Side Look
Feature |
THCP |
Delta-8 |
Potency |
Extremely strong with high CB1 binding affinity |
Mild to moderate |
How It’s Made |
CBD conversion + advanced chromatography |
CBD isomerization |
Onset |
Fast and intense |
Smooth and gradual |
Ideal For |
Experienced users |
Beginners or sensitive users |
Potential Effects |
Deep relaxation and strong euphoria |
Mild uplift and focus |
Availability |
Limited (mostly vapes and gummies) |
Widely available |
Scientific Notes |
First identified in 2019 |
Characterized earlier and widely studied |
How These Cannabinoids Are Made
Both cannabinoids are produced from hemp-derived CBD, but their processes vary slightly:
- THCP: Requires additional purification and advanced chromatography to be properly isolated.
- Delta-8: Created through isomerization, using solvents and acid-based catalysts to convert CBD into Delta-8 THC.
Both cannabinoids are considered semi-synthetic because they require chemical conversion from CBD, which is a crucial distinction highlighted in recent regulatory discussions.
Potency and Effects
- THCP: Estimated 3-5x stronger than Delta-9 THC, which is already more potent than Delta-8. Produces a fast-hitting, long-lasting, full-body high that can feel intense.
- Delta-8: Produces calming, mildly euphoric effects that are ideal for functional use. Great for easing into cannabis without paranoia or couch lock.
Ways to Consume
- THCP: A newer cannabinoid, with products mainly limited to vapes and gummies, although some enhanced prerolls are available.
- Delta-8: Widely available as vapes, edibles, flower, and more.
In both cases, safety depends on sourcing. Stick with lab-tested, hemp-derived products from reputable brands.
Potential Benefits
Cannabis isn’t just about getting high. It offers therapeutic potential, too.
Early in-vitro evidence suggests cannabinoids with long alkyl chains, like THCP, may influence pain and inflammation pathways more strongly than their shorter counterparts. Delta-8, on the other hand, has been studied for its antiemetic and anxiolytic potential in limited research, including a 1995 pediatric cancer nausea study.
With many other cannabinoids, more research is needed on both THCP and Delta-8 to thoroughly understand how these affect us and how they can potentially help us.
Choosing Between THCP and Delta-8
The choice between THCP and Delta-8 mainly comes down to intensity:
- Choose THCP if you want a bold, powerful high.
- Choose Delta-8 if you prefer a smooth, mellow experience.
Both cannabinoids offer interesting possibilities, especially as researchers continue to study how their structural differences shape their effects on us. THCP can provide a high that many experienced users describe as immersive and deeply relaxing, while Delta-8 is an excellent option for people who want a gentler, more predictable experience.
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