As the adage goes, “when it rains, it pours,” it really did pour many different cannabinoids in just the past few years. Hemp-derived Delta 8 THC, Delta 9 THC, and Delta 10 THC have enjoyed the spotlight as an accessible, and most importantly, legal option to weed. Now, we’re ready to know more about the latest addition: THCO. Just like the other cannabinoids, this holds a lot of potential, not only for recreational use, but also therapeutic. Let’s get to know more about it below.

What is THC-O? A Brief Background

THC-O acetate, more commonly known or marketed as THCO, is an acetic cannabinoid created through a specific process that alters the properties of hemp-derived cannabidiol. Simply put, CBD is converted first into delta 8 THC, but rather than settling with just that cannabinoid, it is further processed using a chemical compound known as acetic anhydride. This set of complex steps ultimately lead to the production of the THC-O acetate.

Jumping straight to its effect, THCO offers something quite similar to other euphoric cannabinoids like delta 8 THC, but some users report experiencing something more unique. They even claim that THCO is more potent than delta 8 THC. But with still-limited research on the topic and varying user experiences, bold claims like “better, more potent than X or Y” should be taken with a grain of salt. If anything, the cannabinoid may offer some therapeutic potential.

The History of THC-O

Even though most people are just learning about THCO today, the very first documented mention of the cannabinoid dates back to the 1940s during wartime. The lab-synthesized version of the cannabinoid was used in experiments by the American military as a way to incapacitate enemies with minimal to no casualties.

But as mentioned earlier, the hemp-derived cannabinoids boom has led to renewed interest in THCO. So from being experimented as a tool for war, it is now being used in disposable vapes, edibles, and more.

THC-O Effects: What to Expect and What to Watch Our For

In case you missed it earlier, THCO is quite potent: about three times stronger than delta 9 THC. The effects you get tend to be more psychedelic in nature, so THCO is actually getting referred to as the “psychedelic cannabinoid.” To qualify these results, most people report that the high is more intense, even a bit spiritual, and possibly even bordering on hallucinogenic. But again, with limited research since its resurgence, we can assume that the exact effects vary from one person to another.

Potential Benefits of THC-O

As noted above, there has not been a great deal of research into the therapeutic benefits of THCO. Not much has been documented in terms of THCO benefits other than anecdotal information from users. But what they’re saying is somewhat unanimous: some people get an uplifting effect from the cannabinoid, which may be something manufacturers can look into in the future to address issues like stress or even depression. There are also reports that THCO seems to help with discomfort, body pains, and other quality-of-life issues better than delta 8 or delta 9.

THC-O vs Delta 8 THC: What’s the Difference?

While both delta 8 THC and THCO are cannabinoids derived from hemp, there are substantial differences between them that every potential consumer should know. Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid that’s basically a straightforward conversion of CBD, while THCO is the result of many different processes, mixed with another compound before reaching its final form. And, as mentioned earlier, as a derivative of delta 8 THC, there would be no THCO without Delta 8. Users also report different effects between them. Delta 8 THC’s effect is usually intoxicating, but THCO may be more potent and offer a different euphoric experience.

THC-O FAQs: Important Information You Should Know

Is THC-O Legal?

For now, THCO exists in a bit of a legal gray area. If we are to solely base it on the 2018 Farm Bill, it is legal because the cannabinoid in question is created by processing hemp, much like delta 8 THC. But that doesn’t mean you need to stop researching and head straight to checkout. Like delta 8 THC, different states have different laws regarding specific hemp-derived extracts. Some of these regulations determine the legality of THCO products at the state level, meaning, you won’t be able to purchase or consume such products if you live and stay there. It pays to be mindful of the laws in your state to get further details and avoid any legal complications in the future.

Is THC-O Safe?

Before you buy anything THCO, it is very important to find a reputable company that manufactures and sells the products first. THCO is a more processed cannabinoid, so buying from a mystery source is highly discouraged. Look for products that have been tested by a third-party lab. For example, take a look at the lab test for Galaxy Treats Solar Stranana THCO Blast Bars. This Certificate of Analysis (COA) was performed by PharmaLabs, which is an accredited lab not affiliated with Galaxy Treats. The lab test clearly shows the cannabinoid profile, pesticide test results, and metal detection analysis.

How Much THC-O Should You Take?

Moving to the actual consumption of the THCO product, you should keep in mind that the effects can be much different from other cannabinoids, and euphoric effects can be more profound. Yes, you may have consumed Delta 8 or Delta 9 products before, but you can’t expect the same effects from THCO. As a rule, always start out with a minimal dose. For example, if you are trying Peachberry THCO Gummies with 25mg per gummy, you may try taking half a gummy first to see how that affects you. You can simply adjust your dose for the next experience.

Enjoy the Highest-Quality THC-O Products with Galaxy Treats

Ready to try THCO products? You can count on Galaxy Treats to give you access to safely-manufactured, well-tested THCO products. Take a look at our full collection of THCO disposables and flavorful gummies. 

Not ready to commit to a full-sized THCO product? Grab a sample-pack size of THCO Gummies in Peachberry or Citrus Melon Comet flavors.

Shop our full selection of THC-O products online at GalaxyTreats.com and save 20% off with code “THCO20”.