Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 vs. THCP: Understanding the Key Differences

Breaking Down the Differences: Our Products vs. Dispensary Cannabis

When it comes to cannabis products, understanding the differences between what we sell and what’s available in dispensaries or recreational states is key. This post dives into the world of cannabinoids, highlighting the similarities and differences in Delta-8 THC, Delta-9 THC, and other emerging cannabinoids like THCP.

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What is Delta-9 THC?

Delta-9 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for the intoxicating effects many people seek. Found in the resin of the female Cannabis sativa plant, Delta-9 THC interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) by binding to CB1 receptors in the brain (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health [NCCIH], 2023).

However, Delta-9 THC is only one of over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis. It’s important to distinguish between “weed” (the plant in its entirety) and Delta-9 THC (a specific compound within the plant).

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The Legal Difference: Hemp vs. Dispensary Cannabis

• Hemp-Derived Products (Our Products): Contain 0.3% or less Delta-9 THC, as defined by the 2018 Farm Bill (Agricultural Improvement Act, 2018). This ensures compliance while still delivering beneficial effects.
• Dispensary Cannabis: Typically contains more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC, making it highly psychoactive and available only in states where marijuana is legalized for medical or recreational use.

Our hemp flower is enhanced with concentrated cannabinoids (distillate) to boost potency while maintaining legal Delta-9 THC levels.

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What Makes You High?

When you consume THC, it travels from your lungs to your bloodstream and eventually binds to receptors in your brain. This process triggers effects such as:

• Pain relief
• Euphoria
• Mood enhancement

However, THC isn’t the only cannabinoid capable of these effects. Delta-8 THC and THCP also play significant roles, each offering unique experiences (Lu et al., 2022).

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Delta-8 THC: A Gentler Alternative to Delta-9 THC

What is Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 THC is a less intense analog of Delta-9 THC with its own set of benefits. While it binds to the same CB1 receptors, the difference lies in its chemical structure, which produces milder effects (Leas et al., 2022).

Benefits of Delta-8 THC:

• Reduced Anxiety: Delta-8 provides a calmer, clearer high without the paranoia sometimes associated with Delta-9.
• Buildable Effects: Users can gradually increase their dose to achieve their desired intensity.
• Pain and Stress Relief: Similar to Delta-9 but gentler, making it ideal for those with lower tolerances.

Delta-8 allows users to enjoy psychoactive effects without overwhelming potency, making it a solid option for micro-dosing and first-time users.

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THCP: The Most Potent Cannabinoid

What is THCP?

THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol) is a newly discovered cannabinoid that is up to 30 times stronger than Delta-9 THC in terms of CB1 receptor affinity (Citti et al., 2019).

Why is THCP So Potent?

• Chemical Structure: THCP contains 7 carbon atoms in its alkyl side chain, compared to the 5 carbon atoms in Delta-9, which increases its ability to bind to CB1 receptors more tightly.

Tips for THCP Use:

• Start Small: Due to its strength, even a small dose can be very effective.
• Avoid Overconsumption: Too much THCP can lead to unpleasant effects like anxiety and paranoia. If this occurs, CBD may help mitigate the experience (Stout & Cimino, 2014).

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Key Differences Between Cannabinoids

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How We Create Our Products

At Texas Freedom, we focus on providing the highest-quality hemp-derived products.

• Hemp Sourcing: We harvest hemp before it matures into marijuana, ensuring naturally low Delta-9 THC levels.
• Enhanced Potency: We infuse flower with cannabinoid distillate and coat it in kief for potency while remaining compliant.
• No Fillers: No third-party additives or harmful chemicals, just cannabinoids.

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Why Choose Texas Freedom Products?

We’re committed to offering safe, effective products that showcase the full potential of cannabis.

Our Promise:

• Transparency: All products come with third-party Certificates of Analysis (COAs) to verify quality.
• Variety: From Delta-8 to THCP, we offer something for every preference.
• Crafted In-House: Total control from seed to shelf.

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Final Thoughts

The cannabinoid world is evolving quickly. From the widely known Delta-9 THC to the ultra-potent THCP, each compound offers something unique. At Texas Freedom, we’re here to help you explore these cannabinoids safely, legally, and confidently.

Explore our full line of premium hemp products today.

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References 

Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, Pub. L. No. 115–334, § 12619, 132 Stat. 4490 (2018).

Citti, C., Linciano, P., Panseri, S., Grassi, G., Vezzalini, F., Forni, F., ... & Cannazza, G. (2019). A novel phytocannabinoid isolated from Cannabis sativa L. with an in vivo cannabimimetic activity higher than Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol: Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabiphorol. Scientific Reports, 9(1), 20335. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-56785-1

Leas, E. C., Nobles, A. L., Caputi, T. L., Dredze, M., Smith, D. M., & Ayers, J. W. (2022). Trends in Internet Searches for Cannabidiol (CBD) in the United States. JAMA Network Open, 5(2), e2147191. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.47191

Lu, H. C., Mackie, K., & Piomelli, D. (2022). Cannabinoid signaling in health and disease. Neuron, 110(19), 3103–3120. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2022.08.014

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2023). Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids: What You Need To Know. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cannabis-marijuana-and-cannabinoids-what-you-need-to-know

Stout, S. M., & Cimino, N. M. (2014). Exogenous cannabinoids as substrates, inhibitors, and inducers of human drug metabolizing enzymes: A systematic review. Drug Metabolism Reviews, 46(1), 86–95. https://doi.org/10.3109/03602532.2013.849268