The hemp market continues to flourish by giving its customers new cannabinoids to try out from time to time. Recently, a new THC version called THC-O acetate got discovered and its products are appearing in various online and local dispensaries. 

THC-O has intrigued many marijuana and hemp users to try this cannabinoid as it brings a strong high. Is a THC-O high same as a Delta 9 high? What are the effects of THC-O? Is this cannabinoid natural? This article explores deeply what THC-O is.

What Is THC-O Acetate?

THC-O acetate is a psychoactive cannabinoid that belongs to the family of THC. It’s even called an ester version of THC due to the acetate part added to it. The origin of THC-O can be traced back to the mid-19th century, although this chemical compound gained hype recently. 

In the 1940s, the US military studied THC-O and found that its ability to weaken muscle coordination in dogs was twice as strong as Delta 9. Then, the cannabinoid got spotted again in 1978, when the DEA found the production of THC-O in an underground lab in Florida. 

After this incident, illicit THC-O production didn’t occur for around 10 years or longer. Hence, the DEA didn’t carry out further research on this cannabinoid. Now, THC-O has become a center of attention in the cannabinoid industry.

How Is THC-O Acetate Made?

Hemp does contain several cannabinoids but not THC-O, making it synthetic. To obtain this cannabinoid, manufacturers have to use a highly flammable chemical called acetic anhydride. First, they extract CBD from hemp. Next, they convert CBD into Delta 8. Then, manufacturers add acetic anhydride to Delta 8 molecules, forming THC-O acetate. 

Can you make THC-O at home? You must not try to make THC-O at home as it requires using flammable chemicals, making the production process quite dangerous. Therefore, THC-O can only be manufactured in a lab.

When Do The Effects Of THC-O Kick In?

Since there are different types of THC-O products, and different ways to consume those products, the onset time of THC-O is also different depending on the type of product and method of consumption. For example:

• Gummies

It takes at least 30 minutes for the effects of THC-O gummies to kick in. This is because the gummies have to be digested in your stomach first. Once the gummies are digested, the THC-O cannabinoid enters your bloodstream and then travels to your brain where it activates its effects. After the effects kick in, they can last for more than 5 hours depending on how many you consume. 

• Vapes

Vaping on the other hand takes only 10-15 minutes for the effects of THC-O to kick in. This is because when you inhale the vapors of the THC-O concentrate, the cannabinoid enters your bloodstream immediately without going through the process of digestion. Although it takes lesser time for the effects to kick in, they don’t last that long as compared to the effects of THC-O gummies.

 

• Tinctures

When you consume THC-O tinctures, it takes at least 15-20 minutes for the effects to kick in. This is because when you place a few drops in your mouth and hold them under your tongue, the THC-O cannabinoid enters your bloodstream after being absorbed in your mouth. Allowing you to feel the effects quickly.  

What Are The Effects Of THC-O?

THC-O interacts in a similar way to other THC counterparts by stimulating the cannabinoid receptors of our body’s endocannabinoid system. The cannabinoid has a stronger binding power than both Delta 8 and Delta 9, making it around 3 times more potent than Delta 9 and 5 times more potent than Delta 8. This means THC-O packs a strong psychoactive punch.

When you consume THC-O, you may get a high that is relaxing or stimulating depending on the dose of THC-O. Moreover, you may experience slight hallucinations as the cannabinoid can cause psychedelic effects. 

People who want to have a psychedelic trip that helps in opening their minds toward deep reflection and discovery should try THC-O.

How Much THC-O Should You Take?

How much THC-O you can take depends on your body’s tolerance levels and the strength of the intoxicating effects. There are 3 dosage tiers based on these factors.

• Low Dosage Range – 3 to 10 mg

If you’re sensitive to the intoxicating effects of THC-O, then you should take a dose between 3 to 10 mg of THC-O. At this dose, you’ll likely experience a mild high.

• Medium Dosage Range – 10 to 25 mg 

If you’ve built some tolerance to THC-O or want to experience stronger psychoactive effects, then you should use a dose of 10 to 25 mg of this cannabinoid.

• High Dosage Range – 25 – 50 mg

This dose is only recommended to those who have a lot of experience with THC-O. A dose of 25 to 50 mg of THC-O will make you experience strong psychoactive effects. 

If you’re trying THC-O for the first time, then you should start with a small dose of THC-O of around 3 mg. If you achieve the desired effects, then you can continue with this dose. Otherwise, increase or decrease the dose gradually until you become comfortable with a THC-O high. 

5 Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can fail a drug test by consuming THC-O. If you have a drug test scheduled in the coming weeks, then you should avoid using THC-O.

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

The shelf life of THC-O gummies depends on the type of ingredients they contain. Normally, THC-O gummies take 3 to 6 months to expire. 

• What Is The Cost Of THC-O Distillates?

The cost of THC-O distillates depends on some factors, such as the place you purchase them from, as well as the amount of the distillate present in the container. 

Final Words – Is THC-O Safe For You?

The THC-O cannabinoid is considered to be much stronger than both Delta 8 and Delta 9 cannabinoids, which is why you must consume it with caution. It’s also best if you start with small dosages and then gradually and slowly increase them. This way you don’t have to worry about overwhelming yourself with its strong effects.