What is THC-O And Is It 300% More Potent Than THC?

In the wake of new and emerging synthetic THC analogs, claims have been made about a molecule that is 300 times more powerful than the most potent THC strain. While the 300% is debatable, there are strong indications that THC-O is powerful psychedelic inducing form of THC.

What is THC-O?

THC-O, also called THC-O acetate, is a synthetic analog of the popular psychoactive cannabinoid THC that is hyped to be 300 times more powerful than THC. It is an acetate ester of THC and the two have striking similarities. Unlike other synthetic forms of THC such as the now famous delta-8 and delta-10, THC-O is believed to have psychedelic properties.

How Potent is THC-O?

Apparently, THC-O is three times more potent than THC. Some users have described the high to be more sedating and psychedelic at the same time, and with a spiritual leaning.

THC-O Effects

Potent THC strains such as Godfather OG have been known to spell trouble even for seasoned users. It’s hard to imagine what 300 times more powerful would look and feel like. While 300 might be an exaggeration, users have reported experiencing psychedelic effects after consuming THC-O. The experience has been described as “more spiritual” than physical.

How is THC-O Made?

THC-O is a synthetic form of THC that is made “in the lab” using hemp as a raw material. CBD is first extracted from the hemp through a chemical process. Then delta-8 is synthesized from the CBD by refluxing the CBD in an organic solvent such as toluene. Basically, this process closes the ring in the CBD structure. The last step is adding acetic anhydride to the delta-8 molecules to get rid of terpenes and flavonoids. What is left behind is a super potent and polarizing form of THC aka THC-O.

Is THC-O A Prodrug?

Yes, THC-O is a prodrug of THC. This means that is has to be metabolized first before its effects can be appreciated. When THC-O is metabolized, a potent variation of THC is left behind.

Where Can You Buy THC-0?

THC-O can be bought online from companies that sell hemp-derived CBD products. They come in the form of vape cartridges or as a distillate. Most of these vendors will ship across the country, but it will be up to you to determine if THC-O is legal in your jurisdiction.

Is THC-O Legal?

The legality of THC-O, like that of other synthetic forms of THC, is a grey area. Given that it is hemp-derived, one might argue that it is hence legal. However, being a synthetic form of THC makes it a scheduled substance (under schedule1).  With this, the use, storage, distribution, and possession of THC-O can be considered illegal and subject to federal prosecution. In the UK, THC-O is listed as a class B drug.

Does THC-O Have a Place in Medical Cannabis?

THC-O appeals to recreational users seeking that elusive high. Hypothetically, medical users needing extremely high doses of THC should benefit from THC-O. However, studies need to be conducted to determine the efficacy of THC-O as a medical compound. More importantly, the safety of THC-O needs to be determined.