We’ve Got the Deets on THC
THC, or more formally known as tetrahydrocannabinol is one of the primary cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant! Its psychoactive properties are widely known and a favorite among many cannabis connoisseurs. Users of THC claim its effects can be mild in nature, or somewhat extreme – from a pleasant elevation in sensory perception, all the way up to a trip amongst the stars; similar in the effect to psilocybin. Individualized experiences with THC vary, and are influenced by a number of factors:
- Our bodies have what’s called an Endocannabinoid System! (click here to learn more about ECS) It has CB1 and CB2 receptors that bind to THC differently, therefore altering our experiences based on our bodies’ natural chemistry!
- Each strain of THC has varying potencies. Leafly is a great resource if you want to find your strain’s average THC percentage! The higher the number, the more potent it will be!
- THC binds to fat cells quite easily! The higher the percentage of body fat, the longer THC will stay in your system. If your metabolism is higher, then you’re more likely to process THC quicker. THC is also processed by our livers, then later excreted by waste! (A little gross, but hey, kinda cool, right?)
Another cool fact about THC is that there are so many different types! Each type of THC produces slight variances in effects, but sometimes WILD differences in potency. Let’s break down the common-core types and learn a little more about what they can do! From a user’s perspective, of course! Keep in mind that due to our bodies’ own natural processes, effects felt by one can’t be expected of the other – if you’re wanting to try THC, it’s best to start small by microdosing, and recording your own results. We’ll get more into that later!
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- THCA: THCA, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is also known as the “grandfather” THC; it’s the natural and pure form of THC, and is present in all parts of the cannabis plant! THCA is transformed to delta 9 THC through a process called decarboxylation. That’s actually where THC develops its psychoactive properties! THCA, on its own, isn’t psychoactive.
- THC-O: THC-O is a fully synthetic cannabinoid, and isn’t found naturally in the cannabis plant! It’s actually an acetate of delta 9 THC. We covered this particular cannabinoid in-depth! For the full scope on THC-O, click here:
- THCP: THCP’s a potent powerhouse, folks! A group of Italian scientists in 2019 isolated THCP and found that it binds more easily to our CBI and CB2 receptors than delta 9 THC! This can produce effects roughly 33x’s more than that of traditional THC. We actually covered this particular cannabinoid in-depth! For more information about THCP, click here:
- 11-hydroxy-THC (Delta 11): You won’t find Delta 11’s products on the market, (and that’s technically a misappropriation of the name, anyway!) 11-hydroxy-THC, or sometimes referenced as Delta 11, is quite the unique cannabinoid! It was so special, it’s gotten its own blog post! To get the full scope on 11-hydroxy-THC, check this out:
- Delta’s 3-7: I’m sure you’ve heard the lingo around the head shops like, delta 8, delta 10, etc. The term “delta” used in conjunction with cannabis refers to the location of double bonds on the atom’s carbon chain. They’re all quite similar to each other, moleculary! Delta 8, or delta 8 THC, hit the spotlight after the legalization of hemp in 2018. Its double bond is located on the 8th carbon chain! Their effects also vary, as some are isomers of delta 9 THC, and are not as potent as its predecessor. These semi-synthetic compounds were also experimented with to increase stability of product, and extend shelf-life.
- Delta 8: Delta 8 is often referred to as “diet weed” for its more mild psychoactive effects! Users of Delta 8 claim that its lessened potency has made for a more pleasant experience, and still allows them to be focused and productive after consumption. Users of Delta 8 also cite its therapeutic benefits; there are claims that it can help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression!
- Delta 10: Delta 10 is similar to Delta 8 THC. Both cannabinoids exist in only trace amounts in the cannabis plant, and are partially synthesized. Delta 10, however, is much harder to extract! Its effects are similar to that of delta 8 – psychoactive, but less potent than delta 9. Users of delta 10 claim that its effects are more relaxing, like an Indica.
Is it Legal in Your State? Let’s Find Out!
The cannabis market has exploded in recent years! As of August 2022, 39 states have legalized cannabis medically, and 19 have legalized it recreationally! You do have to be 21 years of age or older to purchase cannabis in fully legalized states. With the passing of The Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 (aka: The Farm Bill) it removed hemp as a controlled substance, and legalized cannabis and its derivatives so long as it doesn’t contain over 0.3% THC (per dry weight.) While some states are beginning to ban cannabis derivatives like delta 8 THC, it is legal and accessible at most smoke shops!
First things first: we need to know if cannabis is legal in your state! If cannabis is illegal, remember to ask about its derivatives like D8 or D10! (You might just have more accessibility than you think.) Let’s go ahead and take a look at our handy-dandy chart here to see where your state falls on the legalization map:
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Recreational |
Medical |
Illegal |
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Alaska |
Alabama |
Idaho |
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Arizona |
Alaska |
Indiana |
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California |
Arizona |
Kansas |
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Colorado |
Arkansas |
Kentucky |
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Connecticut |
California |
North Carolina |
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Illinois |
Colorado |
South Carolina |
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Maine |
Connecticut |
Tennessee |
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Massachusetts |
Delaware |
Texas |
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Michigan |
District of Columbia |
Wisconsin |
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Montana |
Florida |
Wyoming |
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New Jersey |
Georgia |
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New Mexico |
Hawaii |
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New York |
Illinois |
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Nevada |
Iowa |
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Oregon |
Louisiana |
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Rhode Island |
Maine |
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Vermont |
Maryland |
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Virgina |
Massachusetts |
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Washington |
Michigan |
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Minnesota |
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Mississippi |
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Missouri |
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Montana |
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Nevada |
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New Hampshire |
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New Jersey |
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New Mexico |
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New York |
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North Dakota |
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Ohio |
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Oklahoma |
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Oregon |
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Pennsylvania |
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Rhode Island |
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South Dakota |
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Utah |
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Vermont |
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Virginia |
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Washington |
Buyer’s Guide to THC:
We just learned more about the legalities of THC! While it is legal in some states, there are certain rules and regulations to be able to purchase cannabis in others. In Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin, Wyoming; cannabis remains 100% illegal. Cannabis products containing no more than 0.3% THC (per dry weight) are now legal in most states, as they qualify as hemp products. The first thing a buyer should be cognizant of is legality! Secondly, their preferred method of consumption!
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- Legality: Is cannabis legal in your state? If so, great! If not, that’s a bummer. (We know how you feel.) Luckily, cannabis derivatives are likely legal in your state! Are you wanting to consume cannabis for fun, or therapeutically? No matter the rhyme or reason, there’s likely a product available for your desired purpose! (We’ll share a few of our favorites, momentarily!)
- Method of Consumption: Cannabis is typically smoked in either flower, (blunts and joints) vape carts, (distillate) or concentrates, like hash! You can also consume cannabis as an edible! You might even be able to find your favorite snacks, or unique food items that have been infused with cannabis. (Be cautious: edibles are processed by the liver, and often take time to reach their full effect. Be mindful and wait between bites!)
- Tolerance and Time: If you’re new to consuming cannabis, you might not yet know how to gauge your experience! That’s why we always recommend starting low and slow. Depending on if you prefer to smoke, vape, or dabble in dabs or edibles; you’ll want to scale down your first time and wait in between hits to gauge how you feel. Once you feel comfortable and confident, gradually continue until you’ve reached your desired peak!
Some of The Happy Campers’ Faves!
Hello, mellow fellow! What’s the best way to tackle the day? Light a blunt and get lost in a sweet, zingy haze… So we’re grabbing our hammocks and headin’ for the trees and we’ll leave sweatin’ the small stuff for the bees! Those with the jitters can benefit from this hitter.
Get the good vibes flowin’ with our health-boosting Psilly Gummies! Each pack has 5 sweet gummies infused with Lion’s Mane, Chaga, and Reishi mushrooms. These fantastic fungi are powerful antioxidants! They also have adaptogen properties that can reduce the body’s stress and have you feeling at your best! We added just a dash of THCP to mellow out these shroomy bites. Enjoy responsibly, friends.
Classic chocolate – it’s rich, delightful; need we say more? We combined cream, cocoa, and a whole ‘lotta herb to coax you into our tricked out, gassy world!
Our, “gummies” are the perfect grab&go – these chewy, delectable sweets pack a whopping 50MG punch that will have you savoring the experience! Our fruity flavors range in both sweetness and in sourness. This tasty snack is one you’ll happily tear open to devour.
