Is this cannabinoid really psychedelic? Let’s dig into the science behind THCO to better understand how this unique cannabinoid functions in our body. You might not reach a psychedelic state with a low to moderate dose, but this cannabinoid still shines for its unique potency and the potential to shine as the spiritual cannabinoid. THCO & Alternative Cannabinoids: What you need to Know...  

Have you heard of Delta-8, Delta-10, HHC, and THCO? These alternative cannabinoids are growing rapidly throughout the CBD/Hemp industry giving the consumer a variety of options to get high, low, or anywhere in between. Who would’ve thought that there would be such a myriad of ways you can feel that euphoric high from one plant? 

With the goal to help customers to feel the incredible benefits of consuming cannabis, these alternative cannabinoids have been known to relieve ailments and allow people living in prohibited states to experience and access the power of plant medicine. Scientifically minded cannabis chemists have gotten creative with the legal hemp plant and solvents to extract single cannabinoids for the purpose of creating psychoactive molecules. This was how THC-O began! 

Those extracted molecules eventually turn into a gummy, vape, or infused CBD flower products that contain one or more of the above-listed alternative cannabinoids. These offer the consumer a way to “get high” without the legal ramifications of pot. One of the most recent trends of these cannabinoids is the “THC-O”, and in this article, we aim to answer your questions about it and include how it compares to other alternative cannabinoids. 

We hope this blog post answers all your THCO questions but if not then feel free to email us at Contact@societysplant.com with any additional questions. 

What is THCO?

THC-O is a THC derivative that is altered through a series of steps to create a psychoactive cannabinoid that has sometimes been described to be stronger than or more psychedelic than THC on its own. The process begins with a THC isomer like hemp-derived Delta-8 THC.

THC isomers are compounds with the same chemical formula as THC, but a different arrangement of atoms. For example, both Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC (from cannabis) have a chain of carbon atoms, but D8 has a double bond on the eighth carbon whereas D9 has it on the ninth carbon.

In the case of THCO hemp-derived Delta-8 or Delta-9 goes through a process called acetylation. The acetyl group in THC-O molecules allows the compound to be more easily absorbed, so more of it reaches your system. This results in a greater cerebral high and positive effects on the central nervous system. 

Some sources claim that the acetylated form of THC, called THC-O, typically increases the potency of THC effect by up to three times. Due to this process consumers have reported that the euphoric feelings from THC-O compared to Delta-9 THC are tripled and may last longer.

What Does THC-O High Feel Like?

THCO has been nicknamed the “spiritual cannabinoid” due to some experiences of THCO, feeling a bit like a transcendence into another world. Consumers of THCO have reported a deeper desire to reflect on life, meditate and/or listen to music while experiencing the euphoric high of THCO. Some have even stated that THCO offers a “psychedelic experience that is comparable to psilocybin”, the psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms. 

How long for THC-O to take effect?

THC-O is what is known as a prodrug, which means that the effects do not kick in until after it is metabolized by the liver. For this reason, the effects are significantly delayed from the onset of Delta9 THC. Additionally, THCO is thought to be more bioavailable so after it gets metabolized by the liver the effects feel stronger. Please note the following delay in onset.  

Patience with THCO for Delayed Onset

One of the most important things to remember about THCO products is that the onset will be delayed. For this reason, it is advisable to not add to the dose too soon.  THCO gummies take at least an hour to kick in, therefore we suggest waiting 2 hours before adding a second dose. When inhaling THCO from flower or a vape, the onset is typically around 20 minutes, but please wait an hour to see how you feel. 

THCO vs. Delta-10 THC on Hemp Flower

Delta-10 products offer a euphoric high with a slightly milder psychotropic effect than D9 THC. Some Delta-10 consumers report feeling very clear-headed, energetic, and less stressed. For many people, Delta10 has a stimulating and energizing effect that is comparable to a Sativa strain of THC.  Delta-10 often provides a functional high experience that is mood-boosting with an abundant amount of creativity.

Conversely, THC-O is best saved for the evening, or for a time when you are in a safe environment, where you’ll feel comfortable immersing yourself into the experience of introspection and reflection. Delta10, is an uplifting and cerebral high, allowing you to venture outward, while THCO calls you to look inwards.  THC-O might feel very healing, whereas D10 is a more social experience. This comparison is quite the opposite of effects, so it will really depend on the situation and purpose for it.

THCO vs. HHC High

Most consumers report that the high from HHC is about 70-80% of the high from Delta-9 THC. Some customers have reported that HHC produces more of an energizing Sativa high with very effective pain relief qualities.* HHC will likely induce a pleasant head high, that is relaxed and even happy and giggly. 

THCO may leave you with the inability to fully focus on a complex project making it a great option for those that want to shut down their brain and truly decompress. This mechanism also helps with pain management and intense anxiety like PTSD. THCO is ideal for nighttime use, kicking back, watching a movie, or vibing to your favorite music. 

Medicinal Uses of THCO

• Increased appetite 
• Lessened stress and anxiety
• Deeper sleep 
• Decreased pain 

Like aspirin, THCO is a prodrug meaning it needs to be metabolized by the body to produce the “drug-like” effects that offer pain support. 

Like THC, THCO has a sedating effect that offers relief from chronic pain.

THCO is an ideal substitute for medical cannabis. For those living in states that still have not recognized the medicinal benefits of cannabis, THCO can be a game-changer. 

Is THCO Legal? 

THCO is a cannabinoid that comes from hemp plants. It is created through an extraction process, much like CBD oil; however, it begins with Delta-8 THC which is then acetylated to create THCO acetate. This is a process that is most often used in the pharmaceutical industry. An example is an aspirin which scientists create by acetylating salicylic acid.

Due to the fact that this process begins with federally compliant hemp plants, it does fall under the current legal guidelines of the 2018 Farm Bill.

SOCIETY’s Plant previously carried high-quality THCO products.  All SOCIETY’s Plant CBD, Delta-8, Delta-9, Delta10 and HHC products go through 3rd party testing to ensure a safe and federally compliant product. 

SOCIETY’s Plant Delta-8 Product Selection: 

• SOCIETY’s Delta8 Ready to Roll Hemp Flower
• 2 strains of Delta-8 disposable vapes, 
• Delta8 Prerolls
• 4 types of Delta8 gummies: in 25mg or 50mg

THC-O Cannabinoid: to Consume or Not to Consume 

There are numerous options for different cannabinoids available in various consumption methods at SOCIETY’s Plant.  Ranging from artisanal CBD flower to high-quality vapes and all the gummies and mushrooms in between, we have something to meet your specific needs. Due to the higher absorption rate of an acetyl cannabinoid, THCo might be an effective alternative for those that would qualify for medical cannabis if the program existed in their state.* Keep in mind that the effects from THCO are stronger and the onset is drastically delayed. 

Not sure which hemp-derived product to buy? 

Contact us at Contact@societysplant.com with any questions! 

Check out our specialized guides: Best CBD & THC Gummy Guide or Smokable Hemp Guide. 

FDA Disclaimer: Do not use these products to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The statements made about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and their efficacy has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. The information presented here is not intended as a substitute or alternative to information from health care practitioners.  Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act require this notice.