10-OH-THC: origin, properties and effects

25. 11. 2024

• 10-OH-THC: how is it formed and how is it produced?
• What are the effects of 10-OH-THC?
• Relaxation and stress reduction
• Sleep promotion
• Relief from pain and inflammation
• 10-OH-THC and 11-OH-THC: similarities and differences
• What are the products with 10-OH-THC?

10-OH-THC: how is it formed and how is it produced?    

10-OH-THC, also referred to as 10-hydroxy-THC, is a relatively new cannabinoid variant that is produced by chemically modifying the classic THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

This process involves specific chemical reactions, particularly hydroxylation and hydrogenation, which alter the original structure of THC and produce a compound with unique properties.

• Hydroxylation is a process that occurs naturally during the metabolism of THC in the body. After consumption of THC, the substance is metabolised in the liver to produce 10-OH-THC as one of its metabolites. It is one of the hydroxylated derivatives of THC, which means that the hydroxyl group (-OH) binds at the 10th position of the molecule. This process can be easily mimicked in the laboratory using chemical, enzymatic or photochemical methods.
• Hydrogenation is not a natural part of the body's metabolism, but requires specific laboratory conditions. This process is typically used in industrial and scientific settings to chemically modify the structure of substances.

When the cannabis industry refers to 10-OH-THC, which is produced by hydrogenation and hydroxylation processes, it is usually a deliberate laboratory treatment. As part of this process, chemists carefully set specific conditions such as temperature, pressure and the use of catalysts and apply the necessary chemicals or enzymes to achieve hydroxylation and hydrogenation of THC at a precise location in the molecule.

What are the effects of 10-OH-THC?

Research on the effects of 10-OH-THC is still limited and its pharmacological properties have not been fully explored. However, preliminary studies suggest that 10-OH-THC acts on the endocannabinoid system similarly to other cannabinoids.

This system regulates various bodily processes, such as:

• pain perception
• immune reactions
• appetite
• sleep or mood                                                 

The endocannabinoid system has two main types of receptors:

• CB1: found mainly in the brain and nervous system
• CB2: present mainly in the immune system

 

10-OH-THC is thought to bind primarily to CB1 receptors, which could affect cognitive and psychological function. However, the effects on the psyche are likely to be much less pronounced than those of conventional THC because of its lower affinity for these receptors.

Other likely effects can be inferred based on the chemical structure of 10-OH-THC and experience with other cannabinoids.

Potential benefits of 10-OH-THC may include: 

Relaxation and stress reduction

By interacting with receptors in the brain, 10-OH-THC could produce calming effects similar to those of other cannabinoids, but in a less intense form, according to studies.

 

Sleep support

Some cannabinoid users report that it helps them fall asleep or improves the quality of their sleep. A 2023 study published in the journal Exploration of Medicine found that 80% of participants reported that cannabis improved their ability to fall asleep, and more than half of those surveyed reported deeper sleep.

It is possible that 10-OH-THC could have similar effects, although again probably to a lesser degree.

Relief from pain and inflammation

Based on research on other cannabinoids, it can be assumed that 10-OH-THC might also have the potential to alleviate pain and inflammatory processes in the human body.

The above effects are not yet scientifically confirmed, based on similarities with other cannabinoids.

10-OH-THC and 11-OH-THC: similarities and differences

Both of these compounds are metabolites of THC that do not occur naturally in the cannabis plant. However, there are some differences between them:

10-OH-THC	11-OH-THC
side metabolite	primary active metabolite
lower affinity binding to the CB1 receptor	stronger binding to the CB1 receptor
weaker psychoactive effects	more pronounced psychoactive effects
Weaker other potential effects	more intense other potential effects

 

What are the products with 10-OH-THC?

Various products containing 10-OH-THC are available on the market, such as cannabis flowers, prerolls and vaporizer pens:

• Enriched with 10-OH-THC, the flowers provide a smooth and balanced experience with a distinctive taste and aroma. The flowers contain a high concentration of 10-OH-THC (60%) and only very low levels of THC (below 0.1%). In our range you will find, for example, flowers with a citrus aroma or with a grape and floral scent.
• Prerolls (pre-packaged joints) with 60% 10-OH-THC are a convenient option for quick use without preparation. The THC content is less than 0,2 %.
• The vape pens with a pleasant sweet aroma have a high 10-OH-THC content (95%) and a minimum of THC (less than 0.2%). They are easy to use and ideal for travelling.

 

 

All our products contain a minimum amount of THC, which is legal in most European countries.

For optimal storage, flowers and prerolls should be kept in a cool, dark environment, out of direct sunlight and moisture. Airtight containers are the best choice for quality preservation.

Conclusion

10-OH-THC is a new variant of cannabinoid that is produced by chemical modification of THC through the processes of hydroxylation and hydrogenation. It binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, but with lower intensity than the better known 11-OH-THC, which has more pronounced psychoactive effects. Products with 10-OH-THC, such as cannabis flowers, prerolls and vaping pens, contain minimal amounts of THC and are therefore legal in most European countries.

 

Author: Buds for Buddies

 

   

Photo: AI

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