Note: As of February of 2023, THC-O has been deemed illegal by the DEA. The below article exists only to showcase the effects of this synthetic cannabinoid.
THC-O (also known as THC-O acetate) is a cannabinoid that has uniquely powerful and immersive effects. If you are looking for a stronger cannabinoid with unique benefits this may just be your new favorite as it is considered to be more potent than traditional THC. It shares a chemical profile very similar to Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10 THC. However the acetyl group in THC-O molecules make the compound more easily absorbed so more of it reaches your system for greater cerebral and body effects.
THC-O comes from hemp-derived CBD. It then goes through a multi-step process called Synthetic Conversion to convert it into THC-O.
What is Synthetic Conversion and is it Dangerous?
Yes. Synthetic conversion can be very dangerous if you are buying products from a company that does not provide you with verifiable Certificates of Analysis (COAs) complete with a solvent report. There are manufacturers that may use potentially unsafe chemicals to make THC-O through synthetic conversion, which is why we at Ethereal Gold Dispensary require complete third-party, verifiable COAs with solvent reports before we will even consider offering a product to you. Not only that, but we do our own batch spot testing to verify COA results. You can see these COAs under the "Lab Reports" section on each product.
However, solvents in products are not the only risk with synthetic conversion. You also need to have a full panel report of any contaminants, as some manufacturers will cut corners even more and mass produce in unsafe, uncontrolled, and unsanitary settings. The Ethereal Gold Dispensary Standard for all products we carry (both online and in our physical location) is far beyond the bare minimum requirement at state level, which is just a potency test for a small portion of a batch of products.
Always get your COAs and work with trusted sellers when purchasing products.
Is THC-O Psychoactive and Will I Get High?
THC-O is a psychoactive cannabinoid. As mentioned earlier, the acetyl group makes the compound more easily absorbed (from a consumer standpoint you can expect a much stronger result and high). THC-O has been nicknamed "the spiritual cannabinoid" due to its incredibly potent relaxation effects and stimulation of deep thought and introspection. Users of the cannabinoid report that it is anywhere from 2-3 times more potent than traditional THC.
Is THC-O Legal to Purchase?
As of July 10, 2022 THC-O is legal to purchase in 37 states, the main reason behind it being illegal in 13 states is because of the synthetic conversion process we mentioned above. Instead of regulating testing and requiring full panel COAs like we do at Ethereal Gold Dispensary, states are simply making these cannabinoids with beneficial effects illegal. Our main mission at Ethereal Gold Dispensary is to educate and inform of these beneficial cannabinoids and how testing to keep consumers safe is available.
Benefits of THC-O
- Users report 2-3 times more potent than traditional THC
- Some find THC-O helpful for better sleep
- Reportedly delivers more intense effects than Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10 THC
Risks of THC-O
THC-O is considered to be a very potent cannabinoid, make sure to start with a small dose to see how your body handles it. We recommend starting with a small serving, between 2mg - 5mg. Be careful with your dosage as some users experience anxiety and paranoia.
Safe THC-O Products
If you're looking for safe THC-O products, look no further than Ethereal Gold Dispensary. All of our products are full panel tested so you can know exactly what is (and more importantly what is not) going into your body. You can find all THC-O products that meet the Ethereal Gold Standard in our shop.
Sources:
- https://koicbd.com/what-is-thc-o/
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/dariosabaghi/2022/01/18/what-is-thc-o-acetate-and-why-is-it-getting-attention/?sh=5f4140c75991
- https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-thc-o
For more information, blogs, and cannabis news make sure to head over to the Ethereal Gold Dispensary Blogs section!