What is THC-PO and what effects does it have?
THC-PO, also spelled THCPO, recently introduced to the US market, is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid believed to have more potent psychotropic effects than THC-P, from which it is derived.
Given the success of this generation of neocannabinoids (THC-P, THCV, HHC-P & Co.), it is to be expected that there will also be a demand for products containing THC-PO in Germany.
It is recommended to familiarize yourself with this new molecule now! 
(Chemical structure of THC-PO)
THC-PO: Definition of tetrahydrocannabiphorol acetate
Simply put, THC-PO is a molecule that has similar effects to THC. In other words, it is a molecule that has potentially stronger effects than THC, but is still completely legal.
Where does THC-PO come from?
It is difficult to say which chemist is behind the synthesis of THC-PO, but what is known is that the cannabinoid is probably made from a THC-P molecule.
As a reminder, THC-P (tetrahydrocannabiphorol) was discovered a few years ago (2019) in an Italian therapeutic cannabis strain called FM2. It quickly established itself in the cannabinoid industry due to its powerful psychotropic effects and its legal status. Products enriched with THC-P are a huge success, which is a promising sign for future THC-PO products!
Interestingly, the THC-P available commercially is of semi-synthetic origin. Although some breeders have developed strains with slightly higher than average THC-P levels, this is not enough to justify the extraction process.
So THC-PO is synthesized from a THC-P molecule, which in turn is derived from a CBD molecule.
Differences between THC, THC-P and THC-PO
As mentioned above, THC-PO is an "improved" version of THC-P, which is an improved version of THC. What this means in concrete terms is that all three molecules have psychotropic effects. The main difference is their potency.
All three act as agonists of the CB1 receptors in the brain, which are responsible for the psychotropic effects. However, due to their chemical structure, the affinity to CB1 varies. It seems that the degree of affinity is related to the length of the carbon chain. THC has five, THC-P and THC-PO have two more.
In addition to the two carbon atoms, THC-PO has an additional acetyl group, which is probably the reason for its stronger effects compared to THC-P.
The effects of THC-PO
It is important to note that THC-PO has not been adequately researched and the information available is largely based on consumer experiences and observations.
Could THC-PO have similar therapeutic properties to THC? As a derivative of THC, this is conceivable and it could, for example, act against nausea, vomiting and stimulate the appetite. Due to its special structure, it could be more interesting than THC, especially due to a potentially increased affinity for the receptors of the endocannabinoid system.
The psychotropic effects of THC-PO are described as "down," indicating relaxation, the need for sleep, and letting go. It is believed to have similar effects to THC-P, but there are not enough reports to be certain.
THC-PO is considered a close cousin of THC-O, a neocannabinoid whose effects are compared to those of psychedelic substances such as LSD.
How strong are the psychotropic effects?
Reports suggest that THC-P and THC-PO offer similar benefits, likely due to the same number of carbon atoms in their side chain. THC-PO concentrations in products rarely exceed 5%, and some consumers report effects that can last up to over 8 hours.
However, it is important to emphasize that the assessment of the strength and duration of the effects is very subjective and may vary from individual to individual.
Side effects of THC-PO
Like any substance, THC-PO can have side effects. Due to the limited research and its similarity to THC-P, potential side effects such as red eyes, dry mouth, cravings, paranoia, anxiety, and drowsiness are to be expected.
THC-PO products of the future
The development of the US market could give an indication of what will be available in Germany in the future. THC-PO products could be aimed at a young (adult) audience, especially cannabis users. Most THC-PO products also contain other neocannabinoids such as HHC-P, THC-P and Delta-8 THC.
It is important to consider that the legal framework in Germany is different from that in the USA and that consumption habits can vary. THC-PO is in a legal grey area and can test positive in traffic controls and doping tests. Comprehensive information for consumers about dosage, interactions, intensity and duration of effects as well as possible side effects is therefore essential.
Update June 26, 2024: As part of the fifth regulation amending the appendix to the New Psychoactive Substances Act, some cannabinoids have been banned in Germany. These include THC-PO, THC-P, THCV, HHC and all associated derivatives (HHC-O, HHC-P, HHC-PO...). The bans are limited to the production and sale of the cannabinoids. The consumption and possession of the cannabinoids is still legal. We are just not allowed to sell them to you.
As a replacement, FlowPow offers 10-OH-HHC and 10-OH-HHCP products for sale, which have the same psychoactive effect and are currently not regulated in Germany.
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