Is THCP Synthetic or Is It a Natural Cannabinoid?

Is THCP synthetic? That’s one of the first questions people ask when they hear about this powerful cannabinoid. THCP, short for tetrahydrocannabiphorol, was discovered in the cannabis plant in 2019 by Italian researchers, and it quickly caught the attention of the scientific community.

What makes it fascinating is how small amounts occur naturally in the cannabis plant, yet it shows stronger effects than traditional THC. Scientists found it binds more tightly to receptors in the body, which may explain its reputation for higher potency. Curious? Keep reading to uncover more about the nature of this cannabinoid..

What Is THCP?

Tetrahydrocannabiphorol, or THCP, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid first identified in hemp (Cannabis sativa) in 2019 by a team of Italian researchers. This new discovery added to the list of more than 100 known cannabinoids found in the plant.

What sets THCP apart is its chemical structure. Unlike traditional THC, which has a five-carbon chain, THCP has a seven-carbon chain. This small structural difference gives it a stronger interaction with cannabinoid receptors in the body, making it more potent than THC even in very small amounts.

Is THCP Considered Synthetic or Natural?

THCP occurs naturally in the cannabis plant, but only in trace amounts. Because these levels are so small, most THCP products come from converting hemp-derived CBD into THCP in safe lab settings.

Many ask is THCP synthetic, but it is not. It is a naturally occurring cannabinoid, often described as a semi-synthetic cannabinoid when made through controlled conversion.

Why People Ask If THCP Is Synthetic

Some people confuse THCP with synthetic cannabinoids. The difference is that THCP comes from hemp plants and is carefully converted, while true synthetics are fully man-made chemicals with no natural base. Converted THCP is structurally the same as naturally-derived THCP and belongs with natural cannabinoids found in cannabis, not with unstable compounds from a synthetic origin.

What Are Synthetic Cannabinoids?

Synthetic cannabinoids are chemicals created in labs to mimic the psychoactive effects of cannabis compounds. They are not extracted from cannabis plants, and they lack the natural chemical structure seen in THC, THCP, and other cannabinoids. Because they do not occur naturally in cannabis, these synthetic compounds carry different risks and are unrelated to hemp-derived THCP.

How Is THCP Made?

THCP occurs naturally in cannabis sativa, but only in trace amounts. Because the levels are too small for commercial products, most THCP products come from hemp-derived CBD or Delta 9 THC converted in labs. Here’s a quick overview:

1. Extraction. CBD or THC is taken from hemp plants.

2. Conversion. The chemical structure is rearranged, changing the five-carbon chain into a heptyl side chain of seven carbon atoms.

3. Testing. Strict quality control and third-party lab reports confirm potency and purity.

Natural Occurrence in Cannabis Plants

THCP was first phytocannabinoid isolated by Italian researchers in 2019. It was identified in the cannabis sativa inflorescence (the plant's reproductive structure), where only a very small concentration was present. Because THCP occurs naturally in cannabis at levels below 0.01 percent, it is not practical to rely on natural extraction for THCP products. This is why labs turn to controlled conversion methods.

Conversion from Hemp-Derived CBD or THC

In labs, CBD or Delta 9 THC from hemp plants is safely converted into THCP. The process rearranges the chemical structure by extending the side chain from a five-carbon chain to a heptyl side chain with seven carbon atoms. This structural difference sets THCP apart, giving it a higher affinity for CB1 receptors and explaining its potent psychoactive effects.

How Does THCP Work in the Body?

THCP interacts with the body by attaching tightly to CB1 receptors, which are part of the endocannabinoid system. Research shows that THCP binds with much higher affinity than Delta 9 THC. This stronger connection helps explain why THCP effects often feel more powerful even in trace amounts.

Because of its chemical structure, THCP can create psychoactive effects that may feel more intense than traditional THC. Scientists believe the longer side chain of carbon atoms gives THCP its higher potency compared to other cannabinoids found naturally in cannabis.

Benefits of THCP

THCP is a natural cannabinoid with a structure that makes it stronger than traditional THC. Since it only exists in tiny amounts in the plant, most THCP products are made from hemp so you can enjoy its effects like relaxation, comfort, and mood support when consumed in small, careful servings.

Stronger Interaction With Endocannabinoid Receptors

THCP binds to CB1 receptors with a much higher affinity than Delta 9 THC. This closer link to the endocannabinoid system helps explain why it can feel more powerful than other cannabinoids. Its heptyl side chain with seven carbon atoms sets THCP apart from compounds that have a five carbon chain, creating stronger effects in smaller amounts.

Potent Relaxation and Comfort

Because THCP interacts so well with cannabinoid receptors, you may notice deep relaxation and physical comfort. Some consumers describe it as more calming compared to minor cannabinoids or even traditional THC. While more research is still needed, its structural similarity to other tetrahydrocannabinol homologs suggests it plays a role in promoting balance and rest.

Enhanced Euphoria and Mood Support

Many people who consume THCP products report euphoric and blissful feelings. Its potent psychoactive effects can uplift your mood and make experiences more enjoyable. Since THCP binds more strongly, even trace amounts may create noticeable effects. To keep the experience positive, start small and increase slowly so you avoid discomfort while enjoying the full THCP effects.

Potential Side Effects of THCP

Because THCP binds to CB1 receptors with a much higher affinity than traditional THC, the psychoactive effects can feel more intense. Overconsumption may lead to mild discomfort such as dry mouth, queasiness, or drowsiness. Since THCP products can give psychoactive effects even at very small amounts, start with low servings. Responsible consumption helps you enjoy the potential benefits while avoiding unwanted THCP effects.

THCP vs Other Cannabinoids

THCP has a unique chemical structure with a heptyl side chain that makes it stronger than traditional THC and many other cannabinoids. This difference allows THCP to bind more tightly to CB1 receptors, creating noticeable psychoactive effects even in very small amounts.

Related Post: How Strong Is THCp Compared to Other THC Variants?

THCP vs Delta-9 THC

Delta 9 THC has a five-carbon chain, while THCP carries a heptyl side chain with seven carbon atoms. This structural difference increases THCP’s binding power, making its psychoactive effects feel stronger. Even though both are tetrahydrocannabinol homologs, THCP delivers more potency in trace servings compared to Delta 9 THC, which requires a more significant amount to create noticeable effects.

THCP vs Delta-8 THC

Delta 8 THC is one of the minor cannabinoids with a lower impact on cannabinoid receptors. Compared to it, THCP has a higher affinity for endocannabinoid receptors, producing stronger effects at smaller servings. This makes THCP more powerful within the cannabis plant family, though Delta 8 THC remains popular for people who prefer milder psychoactive effects in recreational and commercial products.

THCP vs CBD

CBD is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that does not create psychoactive effects. Unlike THCP, it does not bind strongly to CB1 receptors. Instead, CBD interacts differently with the endocannabinoid system, supporting balance without the euphoric experience. This shows the structural similarity and structural difference across new cannabinoids, where CBD complements wellness while THCP delivers potent psychoactive effects that many consumers find unique.

Legal Status of THCP in the U.S.

THCP is federally legal when it comes from hemp plants with less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC, as defined by the 2018 Farm Bill. While this law made hemp and natural products derived from it legal, state rules vary. Some states have restrictions on new cannabinoids like THCP. Always check local laws before buying THCP products online or in stores.

Why Choose Cheef Botanicals for THCP Products

At Cheef Botanicals, we make THCP products that are fully Farm Bill compliant with less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC. Every batch is verified with third-party lab reports to confirm potency, purity, and safety. All of our gummies are made from USA-grown hemp plants and meet federal requirements. Here are some popular THCP products we offer:

• THCP + Delta 9 THC Gummies. This option blends THCP with Delta 9 THC only, offering a simpler but still powerful formula. You get the strong interaction of THCP binds with CB1 receptors and the familiar effects of Delta 9 THC in one gummy.

• THCP + Delta 9 THC + HHC Gummies. These gummies combine three cannabinoids for a balanced effect. The mix of THCP, Delta 9 THC, and HHC gives you noticeable strength with a smooth and longer-lasting experience.

Both choices are made with natural ingredients, free from animal gelatin, and crafted to provide consistent results you can trust.

FAQs – Is THCP a Synthetic Cannabinoid?

Is THCP man-made or natural?

THCP is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, but only in trace amounts. Since THCP occurs naturally at such low levels, most THCP products are made by converting hemp-derived CBD or Delta 9 THC. This process keeps the chemical structure identical to what is found naturally in cannabis.

Is THCP safe compared to synthetic cannabinoids?

THCP is not the same as synthetic cannabinoids made from a synthetic origin. It comes from hemp plants and is carefully converted under strict quality control. Safety depends on transparency, third party lab reports, and avoiding products without testing.

Can you fail a drug test with THCP?

Yes, consuming THCP products may lead to a positive drug test. Most tests check for THC and cannot separate other cannabinoids like THCP. If you are subject to testing, it is best to avoid all hemp-derived products that contain THC.

How strong is THCP compared to THC?

THCP has a heptyl side chain with seven carbon atoms, while traditional THC has a five-carbon chain. This structural difference means THCP binds more strongly to CB1 receptors and creates more potent psychoactive effects. Even small servings can feel stronger than regular THC.

Is hemp-derived THCP legal to buy online?

Yes, THCP from hemp plants with less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. Some states restrict new cannabinoids, so local laws vary. Always check your state’s legal status before buying THCP products online.

Final Thoughts – Is THCP Synthetic or Naturally Derived?

THCP is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the cannabis sativa plant, but it only appears in very trace amounts. To make enough for commercial products, it is usually converted from hemp-derived CBD while keeping the same chemical structure that occurs naturally in cannabis. This means it is not a synthetic compound but a hemp-based option that can create strong psychoactive effects in small servings.

The most important factor is quality control and safe production. At Cheef Botanicals, our THCP gummies are Farm Bill compliant with less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC and backed by lab testing.

Author Bio

Joseph Farber Writer

Joseph breaks down complex topics into quick, trustworthy guides you can act on.