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THCP, THCV: the legal alternatives to HHC
CBG9, THCP, THCJD, H4CBD, HHCP and HHCPO are now banned in France. Discover CBD as an alternative!
Since the ban on hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and its derivatives, hexahydrocannabiphorol (HHCP) and hexahydrocannabinol-o-acetate (HHCO), questions about alternatives have been rife online. Indeed, how can one recreate the sensations provided by HHC, and do so completely legally?
Many users consumed HHC to relieve severe pain or soothe unmanageable anxiety. Others made full use of HHC and its derivatives to stimulate their creativity and stabilise their mood.
Now that the ANSM has announced their ban, it’s time to look for a legal alternative to HHC. As luck would have it, two cannabinoids are making a big splash on the hemp market: THCP and THCV. These two cannabinoids, similar in terms of molecular structure, do not have the same properties.
Today, we’ll be outlining the benefits of THCP and THCV as alternatives to HHC!
HHC is banned
On 13 June 2023, the French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM) announced a ban on HHC. Although this decision was expected, it immediately caused a media storm.
This powerful cannabinoid, now banned, leaves a gap in the hemp market. Which cannabinoid can replace HHC?
THCV & THCP: the cannabinoids of the moment
Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) and tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP) had not previously been in the spotlight. Yet they offer numerous benefits. The reason for this delay in research and development lies quite simply in the lack of demand: before it was banned, consumers had eyes only for HHC, even though other cannabinoids with similar potency were waiting in the wings. As for the scientific community, it had more than enough on its plate with research into CBD!
Furthermore, THCP was only discovered recently. It was not until 2019 that a team of Italian researchers identified tetrahydrocannabiphorol, as part of a therapeutic cannabis cultivation project.
As for THCV, it has been known since the 1970s. This cannabinoid has therefore been known for a long time! Unfortunately, it has not enjoyed the same popularity as CBD, which has delayed research. Today, scientists are increasingly looking into it as it is thought to have numerous benefits for the body.
THCV & THCP: what are the similarities?
Tetrahydrocannabivarin and tetrahydrocannabiphorol are similar in terms of molecular structure. The only major difference lies in the alkyl side chain, which is much longer in THCP than in THCV.
Like most cannabinoids, the effects of both will relate to the management of stress, appetite, sleep, mood and pain. In this sense, one could say they are similar, as they interact within the same system. But can we really characterise them by their similarities?
THCV/THCP: what are the differences?
The two cannabinoids are similar in terms of molecular structure but are actually quite different! Don’t be fooled; in chemistry, a simple variation can change absolutely everything. In the case of THCV and THCP, it is clear that the two cannabinoids have little in common.
Let’s go through, point by point, what sets them apart.
1. Effect on our CB1 and CB2 receptors
This is a fundamental difference between THCV and THCP. They do not interact with our cannabinoid receptors in the same way at all! Yet it is these receptors that regulate most of our physiological functions, such as pain and stress.
THCP is an ‘agonist’, which means it binds to our receptors in the same way as our endocannabinoids (the cannabinoids produced directly by the body) would.
THCV, on the other hand, acts more as an ‘inverse agonist’; it does not mimic the action of our endocannabinoids, but rather alters the nature of the interaction. Sometimes, it even acts as an antagonist by reversing the course of exchanges between cannabinoids and receptors.
This means that THCV and THCP do not have the same effect on the body at all.
2. Appetite
When taking tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP), you may find yourself particularly drawn to the cake waiting in your kitchen, or the cheese in your fridge. This is normal, as THCP stimulates the appetite!
The opposite is true for tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), which seems to have the opposite effect! It is thought to be a good appetite suppressant and to regulate blood glucose levels. It is also being studied for its potential in combating obesity.
3. Sleep
THCV and THCP are similar in this respect. Both appear to promote sleep, but not in the same way! Tetrahydrocannabiphorol deeply relaxes the muscles and the mind, creating a strong desire to rest. Tetrahydrocannabivarin, on the other hand, appears to have this effect because it reduces feelings of stress and anxiety.
4. Muscle and mental relaxation
On this point, there’s no contest: THCP is incredibly effective. This is, in fact, why it is strongly discouraged during the day. With tetrahydrocannabiphorol, rest is a must!
As for THCV, whilst it has similar effects, it is better known for its ability to reduce anxiety and stress. It is currently being studied for its potential benefits in treating post-traumatic stress.
5. Pain
Both THCP and THCV have pain-relieving effects, which are still being studied. Both cannabinoids appear to have an antinociceptive action, but only THCV has been studied in this regard.
6. THCP, THCV: neuroprotective?
THCV is thought to be a good neuroprotective agent. Recent studies suggest it may have a protective effect against the destruction of certain brain cells. It is an excellent antioxidant!
As for THCP, no studies have demonstrated any neuroprotective benefits.
Is it legal to buy and consume THCP and THCV?
YES. HHC, HHCP, HHCO and THC are prohibited compounds in hemp. As for THC, it is legal provided it does not exceed 0.3% of the product or flower being sold.
It is legal to buy THCP or THCV flowers provided they comply with current regulations. Indeed, these two cannabinoids are not classified as narcotics. Moreover, scientists who have studied THCV state that it is not psychoactive.
In short, you can make your purchases without fear. Of course, you must always follow the usage recommendations listed on each product page. You shouldn’t mess around with cannabinoids, even if they’re legal!
Which THCV/THCP products should you buy?
Today, the most innovative companies already offer a wide range of THCV and THCP products. Our THCP range already includes vapes, flowers and even resins!
As for THCV, despite the rarity of this cannabinoid, it is also available, from vapes to resin, as well as flowers and trim!
