THCP: What is the potent cannabinoid – effects, experiences & ban

THCP – a name that has sparked plenty of discussion in the cannabis community over the past few years. Many call it the “stronger sibling” of THC, and some even consider it the most potent cannabinoid out there.

But as its popularity grew, so did regulation. In many EU countries, including Germany, THCP is now no longer legally available.

Here, we explain what this compound is, how it works, and why HHZ & similar substances are now the legal alternatives.

What is THCP? – Origin, Chemistry & Discovery

THCP stands for tetrahydrocannabiphorol—a naturally occurring phytocannabinoid first isolated by Italian researchers in 2019. It is structurally related to THC but differs by having a longer alkyl side chain, which significantly increases its binding affinity to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the human endocannabinoid system.

In simple terms: THCP binds to CB1 receptors 33 times more strongly than THC, resulting in a much more intense psychoactive effect.

It is believed that THCP may help explain why some cannabis strains produce different effects, even when their THC content is identical.

THCP Effects – Stronger than THC?

Many describe the effects of THCP as extremely strong, long-lasting, and highly psychoactive. Early user reports mention:

• a rapid and intense onset of effects
• a deep physical and mental high
• strong euphoria, sometimes leading to introspective states

THCP vs THC – Comparison Table

Characteristic	THC	THCP
Receptor binding	High at CB1	Up to 33x stronger at CB1
Onset of effects	Fast (Vape) / moderate (oral)	Very fast with Vapes, long-lasting
Intensity	Moderate to strong	Very strong to overwhelming
Legality (DE)	Medically regulated	Now banned

THCP experiences – what do users say?

Forum posts, Reddit threads, and early product reviews quickly made it clear: THCP is not a “beginner cannabinoid.” Many users report:

• deep physical relaxation
• mental clarity or deeper thoughts
• sometimes overwhelming effects at higher doses

The fact that it’s 33 times more potent doesn’t mean THCP gets you 33 times “higher”—but it does activate the same receptors much more strongly.

Studies on the effects of THCP are limited, but some research suggests it may have a higher affinity for cannabinoid receptors in the brain, which could explain the stronger effects people report. However, more research is needed to better understand the long-term health impacts of THCP.

Is THCP dangerous or risky?

Because THCP is more potent than other cannabinoids, it can also cause stronger side effects, such as:

• paranoid thoughts
• rapid heartbeat
• overwhelming mental effects
• memory problems if overused

Is THCP legal?

The legal status of THCP has been pretty clear since 2023:

In Germany, the sale of THCP products is currently no longer permitted. The active ingredient falls under the New Psychoactive Substances Act (NpSG) or is often treated in practice as a THC analogue—which means it is banned from sale.

Are there still THCP Flowers, Vapes, or hash products available?

The days when you could buy THCP Flowers, THCP Vapes, or THCP hash online are over. Reputable vendors have removed these products from their offerings.

If you are looking for a similar experience, modern cannabinoids like HHZ or 10-OH-HHC are a great choice. They offer:

• a strong, euphoric high
• a clear head effect without feeling overwhelmed
• legal availability and verified safety

1. THCP Vape alternatives
2. THCP Flowers alternatives

Conclusion: THCP – fascinating, but no longer freely available

THCP was a real sensation in the world of cannabinoids. Its incredible potency, rapid onset, and strong binding to CB receptors made it a secret weapon for experienced users.

However, with great potency comes great responsibility—and now, a ban across the EU.

Today, you can enjoy legal and safe consumption with cannabinoids like HHZ. They are similarly potent, much clearer in terms of mental effects, and most importantly, fully compliant with current laws.