Remember when cannabis was just weed?
THC got you high. CBD helped you chill. That was it. Simple times.
Now? There’s a whole new generation of cannabinoids showing up in vapes, edibles, oils, and gummies – with names like Delta-8, HHC, THC-O, and THCP.
And if you’ve found yourself wondering “Wait, are these even real?” or “Is this stuff legal?” – you’re not alone.
Let’s break it down.
So… What Actually Are Alt Cannabinoids?
“Alt cannabinoids” is a loose term used to describe alternative or novel cannabinoids. They’re usually ones other than the most well known ones: THC, CBD, CBG, CBN.
Some are naturally occurring in small amounts in the cannabis plant (like Delta-8 or THCP). Others are made by converting CBD in a lab using chemical processes.
Most alt cannabinoids are derived from hemp (the low-THC version of cannabis), which means they’ve been able to sneak through legal loopholes in certain countries, especially the US. Now, thanks to the global hemp market, they’re popping up here in the UK too.
Meet the Most Popular Alt Cannabinoids
Here’s a quickfire guide to the trending compounds you’re seeing around – what they are, how they feel, and whether you should give them a go.
🌿 THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)
- What is it? The non-psychoactive precursor to THC, found in raw cannabis.
- How’s it made? Naturally occurs in cannabis flower. Turns into THC when heated (a process called decarboxylation).
- How does it feel? On its own, it doesn’t get you high. But if smoked or vaped, it becomes regular Delta-9 THC.
- Legal in the UK? A grey area. Technically legal if isolated and unheated, but could be considered illegal if intended for smoking.
- Safe? Considered low-risk in raw form. Same cautions apply as with high-THC cannabis, as it’s essentially the same thing.
🌿 Delta-8 THC
- What is it? A close cousin of Delta-9 THC (the main psychoactive compound in weed), but milder.
- How’s it made? Usually converted from CBD using a chemical process.
- How does it feel? Like a lighter, smoother high. Less paranoia, more chill.
- Legal in the UK? Not legal, but often sold online in a grey area.
- Safe? Early reports say yes, but quality varies. Stick to trusted sources.
🔥 HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol)
- What is it? A hydrogenated version of THC. Kind of like margarine is to butter.
- How’s it made? Created in a lab from hemp-derived compounds.
- How does it feel? Similar to Delta-9 but a bit more clear-headed and energetic.
- Legal in the UK? No. Some argue it’s technically unregulated, but that could change fast.
- Safe? Not enough long-term research. Stick with lab-tested products.
🌈 THC-O (Acetate)
- What is it? A synthetic compound said to be 3x stronger than THC.
- How’s it made? Chemically altered from Delta-8 or Delta-9.
- How does it feel? Potent, almost psychedelic. Not for newbies.
- Legal in the UK? Likely considered a controlled substance.
- Safe? Mixed reports. Some users experience harsh lung reactions. Approach with caution.
🧠 THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol)
- What is it? A naturally occurring cannabinoid found in trace amounts.
- How’s it made? Extracted or synthesised in labs.
- How does it feel? Potentially 33x the binding power of THC, but real-world effects are less dramatic.
- Legal in the UK? Again, probably not, as it’s psychoactive.
- Safe? Early days. Be mindful of dosage and quality.
Are They Safe?
Here’s the thing: We don’t fully know yet (apart from THCa, which is just regular THC before it’s heated).
Most alt cannabinoids haven’t been around long enough for proper long-term studies. What we do know is that when they’re made poorly, contaminants can sneak in – solvents, heavy metals, weird by-products – especially with dodgy vape carts or sketchy online sellers.
If you are going to try them, make sure:
- They’re lab-tested
- You buy from a reputable source
- You start low and go slow
And if a product doesn’t list ingredients or testing info? Walk away.
Are They Legal in the UK?
In a word: unlikely.
Most of these compounds aren’t explicitly listed as controlled substances under UK law – but that doesn’t mean they’re legal.
The Psychoactive Substances Act (2016) bans substances that affect the brain and aren’t exempt (like alcohol or caffeine).
Still, some retailers are selling these cannabinoids under the assumption that, because they’re derived from hemp and not specifically banned, they’re in the clear.
But be warned: the UK government ay clamp down on novel cannabinoids. HHC has already been flagged by the UN. Others could follow.
Should You Try Alt Cannabinoids?
Look, we’re not here to tell you what to do. But here’s our honest take:
THCa weed is just weed. So as long as it’s in flower form and from a reliable source, you’re all good. As for the rest…
✅ Alt cannabinoids might be useful if:
- You live in a place with no access to regulated cannabis
- You’re looking for milder or more functional effects
- You’re experimenting with harm reduction
❌ They’re probably not for you if:
- You struggle with anxiety or psychosis
- You’re on medications that interact with the endocannabinoid system
- You buy mystery carts from shady sources
If you do explore these compounds, treat them with the same respect you’d give any psychoactive substance. Do your research. Go slow. And stay grounded.
Final Thoughts: Choose Curiosity, Not Confusion
Alt cannabinoids are fascinating, no doubt. They’re pushing boundaries and opening doors for people who want more control over their cannabis experience.
But they’re also messy, under-researched, and often misunderstood.
At High & Polite, we’re here to help you navigate this space with clarity and honesty. If you want more cannabis content like this, join our newsletter for weekly updates, product tips, and real talk about weed in the UK.
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