What Is Stronger, Delta 9 or THCP?

by NSM Prime on April 30, 2025

Understanding the Strength of THCP vs Delta 9 THC

Delta 9 THC has long been the dominant psychoactive compound in cannabis, but with the rise of rare cannabinoids like THCP (tetrahydrocannabiphorol), many are now asking: what is stronger, Delta 9 or THCP? This blog breaks down the potency, effects, and key differences between these two powerful compounds to help you understand which delivers a stronger experience.

What Is THCP and How Potent Is It?

Discovered in 2019, THCP is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in trace amounts in some cannabis strains. What sets it apart is its unique seven-atom alkyl side chain, which allows it to bind more efficiently to CB1 receptors in the brain.

According to a 2019 Italian study, THCP has up to 33 times more binding affinity to CB1 receptors than Delta 9 THC. This makes THCP potentially the most potent cannabinoid discovered so far.

THCP Potency Compared to Delta 9

Cannabinoid	CB1 Binding Affinity	Psychoactive Strength	Estimated Effective Dose
Delta 9 THC	Moderate	High	5–10 mg
THCP	Extremely High	Very High	1–2 mg

Key Takeaways:

THCP can be up to 30x stronger than Delta 9 in terms of potency.
Effects can last longer and feel more intense, even at smaller doses.
It is not recommended for beginners due to its overwhelming strength.

What Does THCP Feel Like Compared to Delta 9?

Users often report THCP delivers:

A more intense, euphoric high
Deeper body sedation
Amplified sensory perception
Longer-lasting effects (up to 6+ hours)

These THCP psychoactive effects are ideal for experienced consumers but may be overwhelming for casual users.

What Is Delta 9 THC Known For?

Delta 9 THC is the standard form of THC most people are familiar with. Found abundantly in marijuana, it is the primary compound responsible for the cannabis "high."

Delta 9 Potency and Effects

Moderate to strong psychoactive effects
Uplifted mood and relaxation
Heightened senses
Shorter duration than THCP (2–4 hours)

Delta 9 vs THC Analogs: Where Does It Stand?

Delta 9 is still a benchmark for THC potency, but new analogs like THCP, THC-O, and HHC have started to surpass it in strength.

THC Compound	Potency Level	Duration	Psychoactive Intensity
Delta 8 THC	Mild	2–3 hrs	Light
Delta 9 THC	Strong	2–4 hrs	High
THCP	Very Strong	4–6 hrs	Extremely High

THCP vs Delta 9: Potency, Dosage & High Compared

To compare Delta 9 vs THCP strength, let’s look at several categories side by side.

Effects Comparison Table

Feature	Delta 9 THC	THCP
Psychoactive Strength	High	Extremely High
Onset Time	15–45 mins	20–60 mins
Peak Effects Duration	1–2 hours	3–4 hours
Total Duration	2–4 hours	4–6+ hours
Recommended Dose	5–10 mg	1–2 mg
Legal Status (U.S.)	Federally restricted	Federally legal (gray area)
Research Availability	Extensive	Limited but growing

How Much THCP Equals Delta 9?

While exact equivalency depends on individual body chemistry, a general rule of thumb is:

1mg of THCP ≈ 20–30mg of Delta 9 THC

This makes proper Delta 9 vs THCP dosage critical. Overconsumption of THCP can lead to intense and prolonged effects.

THCP Effects on the Body vs Delta 9

THCP binds to the endocannabinoid system far more efficiently than Delta 9. Here are the key differences in physical and mental effects:

THCP Effects on the Body:

Strong body sedation
Mental euphoria or confusion
Longer recovery time

Delta 9 Effects on the Body:

Relaxation without overwhelming sedation
Balanced high
Shorter recovery window

Is THCP the Most Potent Cannabinoid?

Yes, according to current research, THCP is the most potent naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant.

Chart: THC Analog Potency Scale

Delta 8 THC       ■□□□□
Delta 9 THC       ■■■□□
THC-O             ■■■■□
THCP              ■■■■■

Is THCP Legal Like Delta 9?

Delta 9 is federally illegal in the U.S. (though legal in many states). THCP exists in a legal gray area, often derived from legal hemp.

THCP is technically legal under the 2018 Farm Bill if derived from hemp.
However, some states may still ban it.
Always check local laws before purchasing.

Final Verdict: Is THCP Stronger Than Delta 9?

Yes. THCP is significantly stronger than Delta 9. Its molecular structure makes it more potent, longer-lasting, and more intense. But stronger doesn’t always mean better.