What is THCB? Taking the route from production to effects
- What is THCB?
- Production
- The wilderness effects of THCB
- Side effects or exploration of untamed pathways
- Exploring with respect
What is THCB?
The first stop on our expedition is the greenhouse, where grows the stunning cannabis plant, which harbours a vast spectrum of compounds: cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes, terpenoids and alkaloids.
Tetrahydrocannabutol, or THCB, occurs naturally in cannabis, but only in minute quantities, a minor cannabinoid, as are THCP, THCJD and THCH, for example. Scientists have even been able to identify 150 minor cannabinoids in cannabis, according to a 2022 study.
THCB, also nor-THC, Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol-C4, Δ9-THC-butyl, Δ9-THC-C4 is a homologue of the psychoactive cannabinoid delta-9-THC (THC). Homologue is a term used to refer to chemical compounds of the same type with similar chemical structure and properties.
THCB has a butyl side chain, whereas THC has a classical pentyl side chain.
Despite the occasional parrot chattering that it is a newly discovered cannabinoid, it was studied by Roger Adams as early as 1942. And in a 1997 study, for example, they reported that they found minor components of THC, CBD and CBN homologues in marijuana samples that have butyl side chains.
Production
Even though THCB is found in cannabis, THCB products are not purely natural. Extraction from hemp is not as easy to do as it is for CBD, nor do manufacturers have the ability to extract THCB directly from hemp to make it sufficient for commercial production. This is why most THCB products are more often made synthetically from other cannabinoids, such as CBD.
Scientists make THCB by using butylresorcinol or resorcinol with a chain length of 4 carbons. In short, scientists do not add extra carbons to the delta-9-THC molecule, but use a precursor, which is a synthetic substance with the appropriate number of carbon atoms already present in a chemical process called 'terpenylation'.
The wilderness effects of THCB
So far, total THCB is uncharted territory, and at the moment we don't have enough research on how THCB works. But we do know that it is a psychoactive cannabinoid and it is thought that the intensity of THCB's effects is similar to that of delta-9-THC, presumably THCB has slightly milder to similar effects to delta-9-THC.
Adventurers who have already ventured into this field have stated that it can induce a sense of relaxation, euphoria, more energy and creativity, and relieve symptoms of pain.
Similar to THC, THCB binds to CB2 (mainly in the immune system) and CB1 (mainly in the brain and nervous system) receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body, but the exact mechanism of interaction with the ECS remains under investigation.
In 2020, studies in mice came out suggesting that THCB exhibits anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, further research is needed to confirm this information.
Side effects or exploration of untamed pathways
As we wander through the wilderness, we must also be prepared for possible complications. As with any substance, there is always a risk of side effects.
In view of the lack of research, for the time being we can infer side effects from other cannabinoids with psychoactive properties.
Possible side effects:
- dry mouth
- redness of the eyes
- impaired coordination
- increased heart rate
- memory problems
- anxiety
- paranoia
- dizziness
The intensity of these effects will vary according to the dose, method of consumption, health, metabolism and sensitivity of the adventurer.
Exploring with respect
THCB is a minor cannabinoid, it is a homologue of delta-9-THC. Currently, most THCB products are made synthetically from other cannabinoids such as CBD. THCB distillates, flowers, snacks, vape pens, cartridges and liquids for vaping are available.
Explorers considering purchasing cannabis products should always look for reputable companies and choose brands that submit third-party lab test results. This is the only way to verify that the product is free of undesirable substances (heavy metals, pesticides and solvents).
If you are eager to explore this so-far little-touched terrain, approach this route with respect. In order to make jungle adventures safe and enjoyable, it is important to listen to your own intuition, experience and take into account the power of cannabinoids.
Original text: Patricia Mikolášová, translation by AI
Photo: Shutterstock
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