THC-P first begins as a substance initially formed as cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), known as the “mother cannabinoid” from which cannabinoids derive from. As carboxyl groups (molecules comprising one carbon, two oxygen, and one hydrogen atom) from the molecule. This happens when the plant part is heated.

Otherwise, it has no biological effect. Depending on the various enzymes with which it interacts, CBGA can become tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA) or cannabidiol acid (CBDA), among others. Again, these have little effect when consumed. It’s only when the carboxyl group falls off that they do.

By the same token, TCHPA (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol Acid) and CBDPA (Cannabidiphorol Acid) become THCP and CBDP when heated. They compose only a small percentage of a plant’s overall cannabinoid makeup — and they’re quite potent. In fact, THCP is 33 times stronger than regular THC, which means its effects on the body are amplified.