The hemp plant contains more than 100 cannabinoids, and more are being discovered every day. The most popular cannabinoids found in hemp plants are Delta 9, Delta 8, and CBD. Each of these cannabinoids is extracted from hemp plants, and then they’re infused into different products that are sold to customers in the market. However, you must wonder how these cannabinoids are extracted from hemp plants, and what type of extraction methods are used. 

In today’s blog, we’re going to talk about a relatively new cannabinoid called THC-O. With the help of our blog, you can find out what this cannabinoid is, how it works, how much you can consume, what are its effects, and most importantly, how it is extracted from hemp. 

What Is THC-O & How Does It Work?

THC-O also referred to as THC-O acetate, is a synthetic cannabinoid that doesn’t naturally occur in hemp plants like other cannabinoids such as CBD and Delta 9. The reason why this cannabinoid is referred to as a synthetic cannabinoid is that it is all created in a lab. 

The THC-O cannabinoid was first discovered in 1949 and was studied by U.S military scientists. Later on, this cannabinoid was discovered by the DEA in the 1970s, in an illegal lab in Florida, where cannabis extracts were being mixed or combined with acetic anhydride. 

Although this cannabinoid was created in a lab, it is considered to be stronger than traditional weed. THC-O also has a similar chemical or molecular structure to Delta 9’s molecular structure but its potency is much higher than both Delta 9 and Delta 8, which is why it also creates strong psychoactive and intoxicating effects. The most common type of products that you can find in online stores that contain THC-O include, gummies, tinctures, distillates, and even vape cartridges. 

How Is It Extracted?

THC-O is extracted through a very complex method. The process involves extracting the CBD cannabinoid from hemp and then removing the Delta 8 cannabinoid from it. After that, you will add the Delta 8 cannabinoid to acetic anhydride, which is a highly flammable chemical compound that should be handled with care. That is why it’s important to keep in mind that this extraction method can’t be performed at home and should only be performed in labs by scientifically trained professionals. 

Other than it being a safety hazard, this extraction method is also extremely complex, and it’s very easy for you to make a mistake and ruin the entire process while performing it. Which is why it’s best to leave it in the hands of professionals.

How Much THC-O Can You Consume?

Since THC-O is considered to be a highly potent cannabinoid, it’s important that you’re very careful with how much you consume. It’s always best to start small and take it slow when it comes to consuming this cannabinoid, starting with high dosages even if you have a high tolerance can easily cause you to get overwhelmed by the strong effects produced by this cannabinoid. 

If you’re unsure about how much THC-O you can consume, you could always refer to dosage guides that help you figure out which amount or dosage is suitable for you according to your tolerance levels. For example:

THC-O Dosage For Low Tolerance Levels: 1mg – 2mg 

THC-O Dosage For Medium Tolerance Levels: 5mg – 10mg

THC-O Dosage For High Tolerance Levels: 10mg – 15mg or 10mg – 20mg

When Do The Effects Kick In & How Long Do They Last?

There are some factors that affect the amount of time it takes for the effects of THC-O to kick in and last. Some of the factors include, how much THC-O you consume, the type of THC-O product you consume, and how you consume the product. Here are some examples:

• THC-O Gummies

THC-O gummies take at least 45 minutes for you to feel the effects kick in, and they last for 4-5 hours depending on how many you consume at once. THC-O gummies take a longer amount of time to kick in because they need to be digested first. 

Once the gummies are digested in your stomach, the THC-O cannabinoid will enter your bloodstream and travel to your brain where it will activate its effects. 

• THC-O Vaporizers

When it comes to vaping THC-O, it takes only 5-10 minutes for the effects to kick in after the first few puffs, which is the shortest amount of time among all of the other THC-O products. 

This is because when you inhale the vapors of the vape oil, the THC-O cannabinoid immediately enters your bloodstream without having to get digested first, allowing you to feel the effects within a few minutes, which lasts for at least 3-5 hours. 

• THC-O Tinctures

THC-O tinctures on the other hand take only 30 minutes for the effects to kick in. This is because of a process called sublingual absorption, which involves placing a few drops of the THC-O tincture in your mouth and holding them under your tongue for a few seconds or minutes. 

This allows the THC-O cannabinoid to get absorbed by the mucus membranes in your mouth without having to go through the process of digestion. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• How Long Does THC-O Stay In Your System?

The THC-O cannabinoid can stay in your system for up to 30 days depending on how often you consume it. 

• What Is The Shelf Life Of THC-O Gummies?

THC-O gummies have a shelf life of 1.5 years, depending on how well you store the gummies. 

• Can THC-O Make You Fail A Drug Test?

THC-O can show up on a drug test because it is an acetate of THC. Most drug tests are also designed to pick up traces of THC in your body so it’s best to wait until the THC-O leaves your system completely before taking a drug test. 

• Can You Store THC-O Gummies In The Fridge?

Yes, you can store THC-O gummies in the fridge. The cool temperature of the fridge can not only preserve the flavors and potency of the gummies but also their shelf life. 

• What Is The Cost Of THC-O Gummies?

The cost of THC-O gummies can depend on where you purchase them from, how many mg of THC-O each gummy contains, and the size of the gummies’ container. 

Conclusion – Is THC-O Worth It?

THC-O is a highly potent cannabinoid that should be handled with care, and is best suited for people who have high tolerances. It’s also important that you start with small dosages when consuming this cannabinoid so you can avoid experiencing any side effects. As long as you take it slow and easy, your experience with THC-O won’t be disappointing.