After some research, the quick and technical answer is yes, THC-O or THC-O acetate is a synthesized cannabinoid. In other words, it takes a lab to create. Don’t get this confused with dangerous synthesized cannabinoids like “Spice” or “K2”. THC-O was created legally and professionally.
Let us dive into the world of THC-O!
Table of Contents:
- What is THC- O?
- How was THC-O discovered?
- What are Synthetic Cannabinoids?
- How is THC-O Made?
- THC-O is a Hemp Isomer
- Is THC-O Legal?
- Will THC-O Fail A Drug Test?
- Is THC-O Stronger Than Regular THC?
- Who Is THC-O For?
- Where to Buy THC-O Online
What is THC- O?
THC-O is the short form name for THC-O-acetate, or in scientific terms, it is called Tetrahydrocannabinol-O-acetate. We’ll keep it simple and say THC-O, but you may hear people say THC Acetate and ATHC. Most people will just call it THC-O. The nice thing about cannabis culture is we like to use abbreviations (nobody wants to write or say tetrahydrocannabinol).
Most importantly, THC-O is a cannabinoid like CBD, CBG, THC, and CBN. THC-O cannot be synthesized naturally and must be created in a laboratory. This is a compound that derives from Delta 8 THC or Delta 9 THC, which is in turn derived from the hemp plant.
As the latest product in hemp culture, THC-O is the cutting-edge cannabinoid on the market, which delivers sensational and desired effects that are typically associated with hemp use. It is rumored to be roughly three times as strong as your usual herb.
Related Article: What is THC- O?
How was THC-O discovered?
Let’s take a little trip down history lane. Starting between 1949 and 1975, the U.S Army was conducting experiments in the Edgewood Arsenal Experiments. They soon discover that THC-O has substantially different potency from regular THC. During this timeframe, it was being investigated as a possible non-lethal incapacitating agent [highly unethical and practically chemical warfare].
Roughly 30 years later, THC-O was rediscovered in a Jacksonville, Florida, lab by using soxhlet extraction, which is the process of using acetic anhydride. DEO researchers started to focus on the derivation process of THC-O. The questionable process was that the DEO researchers compared this to methods used for heroin and morphine. The DEO researchers gave THC-O a bad first impression and a bad start on the wrong foot.
With time and improvement in scientific research, the outlook and public perception of THC-O have begun to change for the better.
What are Synthetic Cannabinoids?
When we talk about synthetic cannabinoids, most people will automatically think about dangerous and harmful “fake weed,” “Spice,” and “K2”. These are completely man-made chemicals in which the compounds in “K2” and “Spice” are not organic or plant-derived.
According to the CDC, synthetic cannabinoids like “Spice” and “K2” are various manufactured chemicals that some use as an alternative to marijuana. In 2012 the Obama administration signed the Synthetic Drug Abuse Prevention Act, which made synthetic cannabinoids illegal like “Spice” and “K2”.
THC and synthetic cannabinoids differ significantly. THC is a partial agonist, and synthetic cannabinoids are full agonists. According to Dr. Trecki [DEA pharmacologist], this means that synthetic cannabinoids have more of an intense reaction than THC.
Since there is no clear legal definition that clarifies what synthetic cannabinoids are, this does not have an effect on THC-O.
Is THC-O a Synthetic Cannabinoid?
Yes, THC-O is synthesized, so technically, it is a synthetic cannabinoid. Which means it can’t be directly extracted from the hemp material. Does this make THC-O intrinsically dangerous? No. Simply you can consider THC-O to be in its own classification or category.
The difference between THC-O and what is considered by law “synthetic cannabinoids” is it derives from Delta-8 THC or Delta-9 THC, which both originated from the cannabis plant. The process of making THC-O begins from an organic plant, which is different from other synthetic cannabinoids with no plant material. “Synthetic Cannabinoid” is an artificial chemical that does not come from organic material.
Related Article: Is THC-O Synthetic?
How is THC-O Made?
Making THC-O begins with extracting CBD from hemp plant and converting it into Delta-8 THC. In a laboratory setting, an isomerization process called acetylation is used to produce THC-O. Making THC-O takes some substantial chemistry to do.
Acetic anhydride (highly-flammable compound) is a clear liquid with an odor similar to vinegar; although this compound is dangerous, it can be found naturally in wine grapes.
Acetic anhydride is used with Delta-8 THC molecules, which begins a change in the molecular structure of the THC that then creates THC-O-acetate. The end result is a product that is plant derived formula.
DO NOT try to make this at home; ace anhydride is highly flammable and potentially explosive. Making THC-O is a hazardous process and must be done in a professional lab with a vacuum hood with no exposure to humans. The common saying of “Do not try this at home” we mean it.
THC-O is a Hemp Isomer
The technical definition of an isomer is a compound of two or more with the same formula but a different arrangement of atoms in the molecule and various properties. By way of explanation, Delta-8 THC, CBD, and THC-O contain all the components mentioned, but each compound is structurally different. In other words, they are like siblings in one family, all related but unique in their own way.
Fortunately, the way THC-O is made and processed, it is considered a “hemp isomer” and “cannabinoid.” THC-O is nothing like the notorious synthetic cannabinoids that are merely composed of chemicals with no plant material.
Is THC-O Legal?
THC-O is currently legal in 38 states across the U.S. Thanks to its distinctive classification as a “hemp isomer,” it is legal according to the 2018 Farm Bill, also known as H.R.2- Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018. This bill states that cannabis containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC is legally classified as hemp, which is legal for all intents and purposes under federal law.
As a 100% derivative of hemp, THC-O is fully legal to manufacture, distribute and sell to user. It is only illegal in states that specifically ban it which are typically States that legally sell and tax marijuana. Cannabis or marijuana that has more than 0.3% of THC is not to be used in any hemp-derived products.
The DEA Interim Final Rule states that all synthetically derived cannabinoids are illegal, regardless of classification or source. However, THC-O is not synthetically derived; according to the DEA’s characterization used for synthetically derived cannabinoids because THC-O is derived by “isomerization,” which gives THC-O its specific distinction. The only purpose of this rule is to help align the Controlled Substances Act with the regulations in place but the 2018 Farm Bill. DEA has not placed any restrictions on hemp-derived THCs. Thus THC-O is still legal in the U.S.
Will THC-O Fail A Drug Test?
Yes, unfortunately, THC-O will result in a failed drug test. THC-O is an acetate of THC, so it will test positive on drug tests that detect THC. We highly recommend not taking any THC-O product if you have a drug test.
Is THC-O Stronger Than Regular THC?
Yes, THC-O is like a race car and regular THC is like a regular sedan. Research has shown that THC-O is potentially three times more than regular THC, also known as Delta-9 THC. Not only is it more of the ride than Delta-9 THC, but it is also about five times the ride that Delta-8 THC is. If you’re looking for a product that can take you to the moon, THC-O may be the one. Many users find this very enticing.
Who Is THC-O For?
Do you like hemp products like CBD, Delta-8, Delta-9, Delta-10, and HHC? Do you want a product that can rock your world? Then THC-O is the product for you!
THC-O is a fantastic product for people who want to take their hemp experience to the next level. Imagine having ridden all the rides at your favorite amusement park, and you’re tired of all the old rides and just want a new thrill. THC-O is like the new rollercoaster at the park with enormous loops and dips.
Where to Buy THC-O Online
There are many options for THC-O products on the market, but when it comes to quality and options, ATLRX is the best for your THC-O needs. ATLRx, we have the best THC-O dabs with flavors such as Banana Kush, Grape Ape, and Strawberry Blonde.
We also carry THC-O flower online with multiple strains to choose from, like Cherry Runtz, Lemon Haze, and Suver Haze. The ATLRx THC-O flower also comes in prerolls that you can easily enjoy.
You can buy THC-O products like THC-O gummies online at ATLRx. At ATLRx, we carry THC-O gummies that come in a delicious fruity cocktail of peach, blueberry, lychee, and strawberry.
Our lab results or Certificates Of Analysis are available on our website to ensure you as a user get the best quality on the market. Shop with ATLRx for all your THC-O and other hemp product needs!
As a disclaimer, we want to state that this content is for informational purposes only. This has not been approved by the food and drug administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or ailment or to claim any health benefits. It should not be interpreted as instruction or medical advice to displace the advice of your doctor or other medical professionals. We recommend talking to your doctor to prepare a treatment plan for any diseases or ailments.
