In late 2019, Italian scientists discovered a new cannabinoid called THC-B (Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabutol). THC-B is closely related to THC, the main psychoactive component found in cannabis, but with slight differences in chemical structure. This is great news for alt cannabinoids as THC-B is just another example of the vast potential hemp has to offer.
Here’s what we know so far about THC-B, how it interacts with the body and its potential benefits.
The Discovery of THCB
The discovery of THC-B was slightly accidental and made while scientists were analyzing CBD samples derived from hemp.
THC-B belongs to a butyl phytocannabinoid series with a four-term alkyl chain and is structurally similar to THC but with slight differences.
This small change in chemical structure is what gives THC-B its unique properties and suggests that there are likely many more cannabinoids out there waiting to be discovered.
THCB and The Endocannabinoid System
According to the researchers who discovered it, THC-B mainly acts on CB receptors in the brain: CB being short for “cannabinoid.”
Cannabinoids are a group of compounds that naturally occur in the human body (endocannabinoids) and in plants (phytocannabinoids).
There are two types of CB receptors located throughout the brain and body, CB₁ and CB₂. When THCB binds to these receptors in the brain, it’s theorized to potentially cause psychoactive effects similar to THC.
The CB₁ and CB₂ receptors belong to the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and enzymes with which cannabinoids like THC, THCB, and CBD interact.
Our ECS is responsible for maintaining homeostasis, or balance, in our bodies by regulating things like pain, inflammation, mood, sleep, appetite, and memory. So when we introduce cannabinoids like THC-B into our system, they can potentially help restore balance to this system and improve our overall well-being.
Researchers have also found that THC-B had a stronger binding affinity with CB receptors in the brain than THC. This means that THCB could hypothetically be more potent than THC and accessible to a wider range of people seeking THC’s benefits since it’s a hemp-derived cannabinoid.
To date, THC is still the most studied cannabinoid due to its widespread use and availability. However, this discovery of THC-B could potentially offer new insights into how many cannabinoids, specifically those derived from hemp, interact with the ECS.
Potential Benefits of THCB
While THCB is a new cannabinoid, more research needs to be done to understand its full potential. However, since it’s so similar to THC, here are some potential uses that have been suggested so far.
- Stress-relief: THC-B’s psychoactive properties could potentially offer relief from stress and anxiety by binding to CB receptors in the brain.
- Pain management: THC-B has been shown to have a strong binding affinity with CB receptors, which are known to play a role in pain perception.
- Anti-inflammatory: THC-B’s binding to CB receptors could also help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
- Sleep aid: Like THC, THC-B’s interaction with CB receptors may also help to improve sleep quality by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
While THCB is still new in the world of alt cannabinoids, its potential psychoactive properties make it appealing to those looking for the benefits THC has to offer that reside in states where marijuana is illegal.
How Will THCB Make Me Feel?
The effects of THC-B will likely be similar to THC since they share several of the same properties. THC is known for causing psychoactive effects like:
- Feelings of relaxation
- Euphoria
- Increased appetite
Alt cannabinoids with psychoactive effects are often used in an attempt to help manage conditions like stress, anxiety, pain, inflammation, and insomnia. THCB could offer similar benefits, but more research is needed to understand its full potential.
THC-B vs. CBD
Although THC-B and CBD are both cannabinoids that interact with the endocannabinoid system, they have different effects on the body.
THC-B is a psychoactive cannabinoid, which means it has the potential to cause mind-altering effects. CBD, on the other hand, will not cause any intoxicating effects.
Since CBD is non-intoxicating, it’s often used as an attempt to help manage conditions like anxiety, pain, inflammation, and seizures. As a result, it’s an excellent alternative for those sensitive to THC or looking for the potential benefits of cannabinoids without the mind-altering effects.
THCB could possibly offer similar benefits, but more research needs to be done in order to understand its full potential.
If you’re searching for a euphoric or stimulating product, THCB could be a better bet since it’s more closely related to THC.
Using THCB Products
Although THCB is not currently available on the market, it’s essential to be prepared and do your research before it becomes available.
The FDA does not currently regulate alt cannabinoids like THC-B, so you should always purchase your products from a reputable source that conducts third-party lab testing to ensure purity and potency.
Once it is available, start with a low THC-B dose and increase it gradually as needed. This will help you avoid any possible unfavorable side effects from THC-B’s psychoactive properties.
This can include:
- Dry mouth
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Dizziness
And lastly, make sure to consult with your doctor before using THCB products, especially if you have medical conditions or are taking medication.
Conclusion
If you are a fan of alt cannabinoids and are looking for a new hemp-derived product like THCB to try, be sure to do your due diligence and purchase from a reputable source.
Further research is needed to determine the potential therapeutic benefits of THCB and understand its effects on the human body. However, the discovery of THC-B is an exciting development in the world of alt cannabinoids.
As research continues, we will luckily learn more about the potential benefits of THCB and other cannabinoids found in hemp.
At Pinnacle Hemp, we are dedicated to providing our customers with the highest quality hemp products and educating them on the potential benefits alt cannabinoids have to offer. If you want to learn more about THCB or any of our products, feel free to contact us or visit our blog for more information.
