THCP—short for Tetrahydrocannabiphorol—is a newly discovered cannabinoid with some fascinating and unusually strong properties. Found in smaller amounts in cannabis than THC or CBD, it’s starting to make big waves in the cannabis and hemp industry.
See what makes THCP stand out in this deep dive into the rising cannabinoid. Read on and explore what makes THCP different, how it compares to THC and THCA, what effects it may have, and where it fits in Urb’s lineup of premium cannabis experiences. Let’s dive in.
What Is THCP?
First discovered and isolated in 2019 by Italian researchers, THCP is considered a minor cannabinoid due to its trace presence in hemp and cannabis plants. But thanks to innovation in the hemp-cannabinoid space, it’s become much more accessible and increasingly popular.
Like all cannabinoids, and even some terpenes, THCP interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), our body’s internal network that helps regulate memory, immune function, pain response, sleep, and more. However, it comes with a major differentiator: it features a longer molecular “tail” (alkyl side chain), which, according to recent studies, may enable it to bind more efficiently with specialized receptor cells in the ECS known as cannabinoid (CB) receptors. That efficient connection may help explain its uniquely strong effects.
What’s the Difference Between THC and THCP?
THC is the well-known cannabinoid responsible for many of the effects associated with cannabis: a euphoric lift, a relaxed body, and a shift in perception, among many others. When comparing THCP vs THC, the two share a similar structure, but those longer alkyl side chains may greatly impact how readily THCP binds with CB1 receptors in the brain.
So, does that make THCP stronger than THC? That same 2019 study suggests THCP binds up to 33 times more effectively than THC, which signals a meaningful difference in potency.
THCP vs THCA
You might be familiar with THCA as the raw, non-psychoactive precursor cannabinoid to THC, with some potential therapeutic benefits, like soothing inflammation and offering relief. THCA will turn into THC only when heated in a process called decarboxylation.
But while THCA is the essential ingredient in THC, it’s chemically and experientially quite different from THCP. By contrast, THCP is already active and interacts with the ECS in a way that more closely mirrors THC, but with a more potent punch. Both cannabinoids may offer unique value, depending on how and why you're using them.
What Are THCP’s Potential Effects?
While research is still in early stages, THCP appears to mirror many of the familiar effects associated with THC, potentially with greater intensity. Because it interacts closely with CB1 receptors in the brain, those who use THCP may experience a more pronounced shift in mood, sensation, or perception than if they were to consume regular cannabis.
It’s also possible that THCP may engage CB2 receptors, which are associated with immune response and inflammation regulation, though more study is needed.
Potential THCP Benefits
Initial research has prompted interest in THCP’s potential applications, especially where potency is desired. One study suggests that THCP may have strong potential for supporting relaxation, and many consumers point towards its positive role in elevating their mood and easing discomfort.
As always, individual experiences can vary, and more research is needed to fully understand how this cannabinoid interacts with the body over time.
Potential THCP Risks
As with any intoxicating compound, responsible use is key. Because THCP is potentially much stronger than THC, the possibility of overconsumption is greater, especially for those new to cannabinoids or returning after a break. Side effects may include dizziness, nausea, anxiety, paranoia, and impaired perception or body movements.
And as with THC, repeated consumption may lead to a buildup in tolerance, where effects become less noticeable over time. When tolerance occurs, the brain downregulates—or " desensitizes”—the CB1 receptors that THC and THCP bind to.
How to Consume THCP
Want to try THCP, but don’t know where to begin? Thankfully, it’s a versatile cannabinoid that can be enjoyed in many different formats you may already be familiar with:
Flower
While naturally present in hemp and cannabis flower, it’s typically in very, very low concentrations. As innovation continues, we may see higher-THCP strains in the future—and if so, you can bet Urb will lead the way.
Edibles
You can find THCP in a growing number of edibles, from candies to baked goods and everything in between. Here at Urb, we lean on THCP to give select gummies, like our THCA Live Sugar Gummies, enhanced potency and a more dynamic cannabis experience.
Cartridges
Products like our Mile High Flight Fuel 420 Max incorporate THCP into our First-Class vape cartridges. Paired with our Pegasus award-winning Delta 8 oil and flash-frozen live resin, it’s made for taste, smoothness, and altitude.
Vape Pens
For a quick and discreet option, THCP is showing up in vape pens across the market. We leverage the high potency and strong effects of THCP for our own best-in-class vape pens and all-in-ones, such as the Urb Smart Device THCAP Disposable 6ml. Featuring an ultra-pure distillate boosted with high-terpene live resin extract and the power of Delta 8 THC, THCP, and THCA Diamonds, it’s our largest and most advanced disposable vape yet.
Will THCP Show Up on a Drug Test?
There’s currently no published research specifically testing THCP’s behavior in standard workplace or athletic drug screenings. That said, because THCP shares a nearly identical molecular structure with THC—and binds even more effectively to the same cannabinoid receptors—it’s reasonable to assume that consuming THCP could result in a positive test for THC.
Most standard drug tests aren’t designed to detect individual cannabinoids. Instead, they screen for THC metabolites, the compounds your body produces when it breaks down THC. Since THCP is metabolized similarly, there's a strong likelihood it could be mistaken for THC in urinalysis or blood tests.
In short: If you’re subject to drug testing for work, sports, or legal reasons, it’s safest to avoid THCP altogether, even if it’s hemp-derived and federally legal.
Is THCP Labeled Hemp Federally Legal?
Yes—when derived from hemp. THCP produced from hemp-based CBD falls under the protections of the 2018 Farm Bill, provided it contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight. That means it’s federally legal, but certain states do restrict the sale of hemp-derived cannabinoids. Always check your local laws before purchasing or using THCP products.
The THCP used at Urb is derived from hemp-based CBD, providing a compliant and reliable source for this potent cannabinoid.
The Future of Cannabinoids Starts Here
As one of the most interesting breakthroughs in modern cannabis science, THCP opens the door to an entirely new level of cannabinoid exploration. Its relative rarity and strong receptor affinity make it an exciting option, not just for seasoned cannabis connoisseurs but also for curious newcomers seeking elevated, curated experiences with intentional impact.
At Urb, we harness THCP’s potential to enhance a select line of effect-driven products, including premium edibles, high-performance vape cartridges, and next-gen disposable devices. These aren’t your average cannabis offerings—they’re precision-engineered cannabis experiences, formulated with award-winning cannabinoids, strain-specific terpenes, and The Urb Standard of purity, potency, and performance.
Every THCP-infused product in our collection is lab-tested, Pegasus-certified where applicable, and rooted in our mission to deliver unmatched flavor, effects, and reliability to cannabis consumers in every legal market we serve.
If you’re ready to explore THCP for yourself, browse our curated THCP collection, shipping now to most US locations. From high-potency edibles to high-tech disposables, Urb is your destination for next-level cannabis alternatives, designed to elevate every experience.
Ready to expand your cannabinoid knowledge? Explore our blog for even more deep dives into live resin carts, unique cannabinoids, and cannabis culture.
