5 Reasons Why THC-O Products Are Becoming So Popular
THC-O, sometimes known as THC-O acetate, is a cannabinoid that has been taking the industry by storm.
It has a similar chemical structure to THC, the primary intoxicating compound in cannabis. However, its additional acetate group means it is even more potent than regular THC. Some have even nicknamed it “the spiritual cannabinoid” due to its potentially psychedelic effects.
Therefore, some may be surprised to find THC-O for sale online. But the 2018 Farm Bill has ensured that these products are widely available, so long as they come from industrial hemp and contain less than 0.3% THC.
Read on to learn more about why THC-O products are becoming so popular and whether they are right for you.
THC-O Could Offer Many of the Same Benefits As THC
There is little research on THC-O and how it affects the human body. However, it works similarly to regular THC, which has been studied extensively over the past few decades.
Both compounds bind with cell receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system is responsible for regulating many of our physiological functions, including mood, appetite, sleep, inflammation, and more.
Therefore, by interacting with the ECS, both THC and THC-O could provide benefits such as:
- Enhancing mood
- Improving sleep
- Stimulating the appetite
- Relieving pain
That said, THC-O products are not FDA-approved or intended to treat any specific condition. Consumers should be wary of any company making such claims and consult a physician before using THC-O for medical reasons.
THC-O Products Provide a Psychedelic High
As we mentioned earlier, THC-O products are so potent that they could cause psychedelic effects in some users.
The cannabinoid is an estimated 2–3 times stronger than THC and could cause hallucinations in high doses. Of course, some people might find this scary and want to avoid this particular “side effect.” Such individuals should start with a low dose or try another, less potent, cannabinoid.
However, many users enjoy the psychedelic high that THC-O products can provide. Some have even nicknamed it “the spiritual cannabinoid” due to its entheogenic effects.
They Are Widely Available Online
Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, cannabinoids derived from industrial hemp are legal, provided they contain less than 0.3% THC.
This means that many brands have now started manufacturing THC-O products and selling them online. They create them by converting hemp-derived CBD to THC and then to THC-O via a complex chemical reaction.
The practice is not without controversy, though. Some say that the Farm Bill contradicts the 1986 Federal Analogs Act, which prohibits THC analogs, such as THC-O. There are also concerns about the cannabinoid’s safety as so little research has been done.
For now, THC-O exists in a legal gray area, and several states have moved to ban its sale.
However, it is still possible to purchase THC-O products in many places, and they are becoming more popular all the time.
THC-O Products Are Discreet and Easy to Use
Although there is a growing trend toward cannabis legalization, many individuals still frown upon its use. Moreover, consuming cannabis in public is illegal, even for those with medical marijuana cards. Therefore, sparking up a joint while out and about is never a good idea.
THC-O products like gummies are far more discreet as they don’t give off that tell-tale cannabis smell. It is easy to pop one in your mouth and chew, no matter where you are. They are also far more convenient than rolling a joint or loading a bong, making them ideal for use on the go.
That said, consumers should remember that THC-O is exceptionally potent and avoid using it in any situation that could pose a risk to themselves or others. For example, driving or operating machinery on THC-O is particularly dangerous. Furthermore, it could increase anxiety in some individuals, so bear that in mind if using THC-O away from home.
There’s Something for Everyone
Gummies are just one of the ways that people use THC-O. They are perfect for individuals who want a fun and tasty way to consume their cannabinoids. Vapes are another option; these might suit those who want to replicate the cannabis-smoking experience as closely as possible.
Vaping tends to take effect more quickly than consuming edibles like gummies. However, edibles might last longer as the body processes them more slowly than inhaled cannabinoids.
The best THC-O products for you will depend on your personal preference and the effect you are hoping to achieve. However, whatever you choose, be sure to only buy THC-O from reputable brands that use clean ingredients and provide lab sheets for all their products.
In an unregulated market, many companies are selling low-quality goods that could put their customers’ health at risk. Therefore, it is essential to perform due diligence and thoroughly research the options before buying.