Delta 8 and THC-P are both variants of the active ingredient in cannabis, called delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, these two compounds differ in chemical structure and how they interact with your body. To understand the Delta 8 Vs. THC-P differences, let’s start by looking at what exactly they are.

What is Delta-8-THC?

Delta-8-THC is a cannabinoid found in the hemp plant. It is an isomer of delta-9-THC, which has psychoactive properties when consumed. Delta-8 THC does not have those same effects on humans as it is less potent. However, consuming delta-8 THC may leave you with a less powerful “high.”

What is THC-P?

Tetrahydrocannabiphorol, or THC-P, is the most recent potent psychoactive cannabinoid to come into the limelight, as it was discovered in 2019. Just like other cannabis compounds, THCP occurs naturally in the cannabis plant. However, in very low concentrations. 

Differences Between Delta 8 Vs. THC-P

Below are some major differences between delta-8 THC and THC-P.

  1. Chemical Structure

The only difference between delta-8 THC’s chemical structure and THC-P is the extra two carbons in THC-P; THC-P has seven carbon atoms on the alkyl side, while delta-8 THC has five on the alkyl side chain.

But what do the extra carbons account for in Layman’s terms? The extra carbons make THC-P more potent than THC, and its effects can easily kick in, even with a smaller dose. 

  1. Benefits on Your Body

THC-P is much more potent than delta-8 THC, and they all offer different health benefits to the body.

THC-P cannabinoids tend to be stimulative. Combining this with its exceptionally high potency may result in rapid heart rate, insomnia, and anxiety.

Delta 8 is, on the other hand, the opposite; Delta 8 offers mild, mellow, and relaxing effects. While using Delta-8 products won’t affect your sleep routine in any way or make you anxious. 

Theoretically, there is a THC-P version of delta-8 too- but so far, scientists have yet to find any helpful information on how it can be compared to delta-9 THC-P. The processes used in determining THC-P potency could be more refined to tell the exact differences between delta-9 and delta-8 isomers.

  1. Effects

Those who have used THC-P before describe its effects as a stronger THC version, almost psychedelic. So, you will need a minimal THC-P dose to experience similar effects.

Research on THC-P effects is scarce, but users report that it offers similar effects to those of THC. While THC-P and delta 8 may share some similarities, there is one key difference; its potency.

Delta 8 has a lower potency than THC-P, so it does not have as much of an effect on your mind. On the other hand, THC-P is more potent and psychoactive in high doses. Early studies show that THC-P is the most powerful naturally occurring cannabinoid and is up to 33 times stronger than delta-9 THC.

As such, tread lightly with THC-P, especially if you experience potent effects from Delta-8.

  1. Legality

THC-P is legal in the United States as long as it is hemp-derived and not from marijuana plants. However, it has never been such a clear-cut, especially under cannabis products. Each state has laid down its laws and legal framework that governs cannabis use and its derivatives. 

So, while THC-P is technically legal under federal law, it is a subject of debate under state laws.

Currently, no state bill mentions THC-P, but the cannabinoid is illegal in states that have banned all THC forms.

On the other hand, Delta 8 is legal at the Federal level. Unlike THC-P, the delta 8 legality is well documented, and there are bills governing its use.

However, as cannabis legalization continues to take shape at state levels, rules are subject to change. We recommend you check your state’s legislation on THC-P and Delta-8 THC, as each state has its laws.

Wrap Up on Delta 8 Vs. THC-P Differences

Overall, both Delta 8 and THC-P cannabinoids offer some benefits to users. They can be used for medical purposes and offer relief. However, delta 8 is more convenient for those who want to experience its mild and mellow effects. On the other hand, THC-P works best for those who would like to experience its stimulating effects.

If you’re looking to get your hands on either Delta 8 or THC-P, Holy smokes store offers quality products to help you manage your condition. If you want to try out these cannabinoids or learn more information about them, Contact Us!