THCB vs THCP: What’s the Difference Between These Potent Cannabinoids?

Cannabis plants contain more than 115 cannabinoids, but only a handful have made headlines until now.

Meet THCB and THCP, two lesser-known cannabinoids that are quickly gaining attention for their potency and unique properties. Although both were only recently discovered, early research suggests they interact with the endocannabinoid system in ways that could rival or even surpass traditional THC.

Cannabis is home to far more than just THC and CBD. As extraction methods and research improve, rare minor cannabinoids like THCB and THCP are gaining attention for their surprising potency and unique effects. But what exactly are these lesser-known compounds, and how do they compare to the THC most consumers already know? Let’s break it down.

THCB, or Δ9-tetrahydrocannabutol, is a rare cannabinoid and a butyl homolog of THC. In simpler terms, it’s structurally similar to delta-9 THC, but it has a butyl side chain instead of a pentyl one. This small change makes a big difference in how THCB interacts with the body.

Early research suggests that THCB shows a strong affinity for the CB1 cannabinoid receptor, the same one responsible for the psychoactive effects of THC, but with three times the binding strength. While there’s still limited human data, animal models suggest that potential therapeutic benefits of THCB may include:

• Reduced inflammation
• Analgesic properties (Pain relief)

Although it has three times the binding affinity for the CB1 receptors compared to delta-9 THC, consumers often describe a light, clear-headed THCB high with minimal sedation.

THCP, or Δ9-tetrahydrocannabiphorol, delivers potent psychoactive properties. First isolated in 2019 by Italian researchers, THCP features a seven-carbon alkyl side chain, being 33 times more active at CB1 receptors than delta-9 THC, according to research.

In other words, THCP may have significantly more potent psychoactive effects compared to regular THC, even in small doses. The THCP high is often described as deeply sedating, body-heavy, and long-lasting, more intense than traditional THC products. There is limited clinical evidence or animal studies on the therapeutic potential of THCP. As with other potent cannabinoids, THCP side effects can include:

• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Anxiety (at higher doses)

While THCB and THCP are both analogs of THC, they don’t feel the same in the body. From how quickly they kick in to how long they last, each offers a distinct experience that can affect your high differently. Here’s what you need to know about THCB vs THCP effects, from onset and duration to the overall experience they bring.

• Onset: 5 to 15 minutes
• Duration: 2 to 4 hours

THCB effects are typically reported to be more functional than sedating, potentially making this cannabinoid a solid option for daytime use or low-key social settings. The high is generally described as light, with a lift in mood and body relaxation that doesn’t interfere with mental clarity. Early studies suggest potential anti-inflammatory properties, but for most consumers, it’s the calm and clear-headed experience that stands out.

• Onset: 5 to 15 minutes
• Duration: 3 to 6 hours

THCP effects are reported to be much heavier than THCB and even traditional THC due to how strongly THCP binds to the CB1 receptors. Most consumers report a deeply relaxing, full-body high with long-lasting effects. It is said to feel similar to a strong edible, sedating, and not ideal if you have things to do.

The THCP high may also amplify sensory experiences, which some find pleasant and others overwhelming. Because of its potency, THCP side effects like dry mouth, dizziness, or anxiety are more likely, especially at higher doses or for new consumers.

THCB and THCP are both naturally occurring cannabinoids, but they offer noticeably different experiences.

THCB tends to produce more balanced, hybrid-like effects, great for when you want a mild mood boost without feeling the infamous couchlock effect. THCP, on the other hand, leans more toward an indica-dominant experience, often described as heavier and more sedating, making it better suited for winding down or managing discomfort.

One of the biggest differences between the two lies in their chemical structure. THCB has a butyl side chain (four carbon atoms), while THCP features a longer heptyl side chain (seven carbon atoms). That extra length gives THCP a much higher binding affinity to CB1 receptors, meaning it can hit harder and last longer.

In terms of psychoactivity, THCB typically delivers a mild to moderate high that wears off in about 2 to 4 hours. THCP is significantly more potent and longer-lasting, with effects that stretch 3 to 6 hours or more. While THCB may offer light euphoria and potential anti-inflammatory benefits, THCP is often associated with deeper relaxation, stronger euphoria, and more potential benefits like pronounced relief from pain or stress.

Ultimately, choosing between THCB and THCP products depends on your desired outcome. THCB is great for daytime use or lighter experiences, while THCP is best reserved for when you’re ready to fully unwind.

While THCB and THCP both interact with the CB1 receptor, THCP produces more pronounced psychoactive effects compared to THCB and even delta-9 THC. This is primarily due to THCP’s longer side chain, which results in a higher binding affinity to CB1 receptors compared to other cannabinoids.

However, strength isn’t everything. While THCP may deliver a more intense high, THCB may offer a smoother, more manageable experience that’s better suited for your use.

When it comes to safety, THCB and THCP are still new to the scene, and human studies are limited. Most of what we know comes from animal research or anecdotal reports, so caution is key, especially with THCP, since it has a stronger binding affinity to CB1 receptors than THC. That potency may increase the potential risk of side effects like anxiety, paranoia, or dizziness, particularly in sensitive consumers or at higher doses.

THCB and THCP’s legal status falls into a gray area. While they may be technically legal under the 2018 Farm Bill if derived from hemp and kept under 0.3% delta-9 THC, state laws vary. Some regions have started cracking down on intoxicating hemp-derived products, so always check your local regions before buying or consuming.

Choosing between THCB and THCP comes down to your goals and cannabis tolerance. If you’re looking for a milder high with some potential mood-lifting or focus-enhancing benefits, THCB may be the better fit. It’s often described as energizing, clear-headed, and more functional compared to heavier cannabinoids.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a deeply relaxing, full-body high or something that hits more like a strong edible, THCP cannabis products may be worth exploring. Just know that its potency isn’t for the faint of heart, and even small amounts can pack a punch. Beginners should steer toward THCB or microdose THCP with caution.

THCP is significantly more potent than THC, up to 33 times more active at CB1 receptors, while THCB is considered to have milder, more manageable effects. If you’re looking for potency, THCP takes the lead.

Both THCB and THCP may trigger a positive result on a standard drug test. These tests typically screen for THC metabolites, and both cannabinoids may break down in similar ways. Further research on the metabolism of these newly discovered cannabinoids is needed to confirm this.

They can, but start low and go slow, especially with THCP. Combining them may offer a blend of mild uplift (from THCB) and deeper body relaxation (from THCP), but the overall intensity could be higher than expected.

Both THCB and THCP are naturally occurring cannabinoids found in trace amounts in specific cannabis cultivars. However, most products on the market are lab-isolated or synthesized from hemp plants for practical reasons. Both are considered hemp-derived cannabinoids.