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What are the effects and properties of 10-OH-THC and how does it differ from 11-OH-THC?

What is 10-OH-THC and how is it made?

10-OH-THC, also known as 10-hydroxy-THC, is a relatively new cannabinoid derivative that is formed by altering the original structure of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) through chemical processes. To be precise, it is a process of hydroxylation and hydrogenation of classic THC that results in a compound with unique chemical properties: 

  • Hydroxylation is a natural process that is part of the metabolism of THC after consumption. When THC enters the body, it is metabolized by the liver, with one of the metabolites being 10-OH-THC. It is therefore one of several hydroxylated derivatives of THC, meaning that a hydroxyl group (-OH) is attached to the structure of THC at the 10 position. However, scientists can also easily mimic hydroxylation in the laboratory using enzymatic, chemical, photochemical or other methods.
  • Hydrogenation does not occur naturally in the body, but requires specific laboratory conditions. It is usually used in scientific and industrial settings to modify chemical structures.

If the cannabis industry is talking about 10-OH-THC produced by hydrogenation and hydroxylation, this process is probably purposefully carried out in the laboratory. This is done by chemists deliberately adjusting the conditions (temperature, pressure, catalysts) and using the necessary chemicals or enzymes to achieve hydrogenation and hydroxylation of THC to the desired position.

 

Black and white illustrated lab equipment such as beakers, flasks and text: 10-OH-THC, and a cannabis leaf

Effects of 10-OH-THC

Research into the specific effects of 10-OH-THC is only in its infancy. The exact pharmacological profile of 10-OH-THC and its effects on the human body have not yet been sufficiently investigated.

However, preliminary research suggests that 10-OH-THC interacts like other cannabinoids with the endocannabinoid system, which is involved in the regulation of various physiological processes such as:

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

The endocannabinoid system consists of two main receptors: the CB1 receptors are mainly present in the brain and central nervous system, while the CB2 receptors are mainly present in the immune system.

Since 10-OH-THC binds primarily to CB1 receptors, it can affect various cognitive and psychological functions, among others. However, the psychoactive effects of 10-OH-THC are thought to be negligible and much weaker than those of THC because of its lower affinity for these receptors.

Other likely effects of 10-OH-THC can be inferred from the chemical structure of this compound and known information on other cannabinoids.

The reported potential benefits of 10-OH-THC include: 

  • Relaxation and stress reduction: due to its ability to interact with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, 10-OH-THC is hypothesised to have a calming effect and help relieve stress and anxiety, as studies have found with other cannabinoids. Compared to THC, these effects would also be milder.
  • Better sleep: Some cannabinoid users report that it helps them fall asleep or improves the quality of their sleep. In a 2023 study published in the journal Exploration of Medicine, 80% of people reported that cannabis helped them fall asleep and more than half said it made them sleep more deeply.
  • Many cannabinoids are also associated with potential benefits in inflammatory conditions and pain reduction, according to It is therefore possible that 10-OH-THC could have similar effects.

However, there are as yet no studies to confirm these possible effects of 10-OH-THC. The above predicted effects are mainly based on experience with other cannabinoids of similar structure.

 

Black and white illustration of a figure sleeping in bed, the moon and plants, depicting better sleep, which may be an effect of 10-OH-THC

10-OH-THC vs. 11-OH-THC

In terms of common properties, both substances are not found naturally in cannabis but are metabolites of THC.

There are more differences between 10-OH-THC and 11-OH-THC:

10-OH-THC

11-OH-THC

side metabolite

primary active metabolite

lower binding to the CB1 receptor

stronger binding to the CB1 receptor

weaker psychoactive effects

more intense psychoactive effects

weaker other potential effects

significant other potential effects

 

Products with 10-OH-THC

The 10-OH-THC product range includes flowers, prerolls and vape pens:

  • Cannabis flowers enriched with 10-OH-THC bring a balanced and delicate experience with a unique taste and They have a high 10-OH-THC content (60%) and a low THC content (less than 0.1%). In our range you will find, for example, flowers with a citrus or grape and floral aroma.
  • Handy pre-packaged 10-OH-THC prerolls allow easy and quick use without preparation. They contain 60 % 10-OH-THC and less than 0,2 % THC.
  • Vape pens with a high 10-OH-THC content (95%) and a THC content of less than 0.2% have a pleasant sweet smell and are practical and easy to use. They are also great for long journeys.

All products have a very low THC content, which is allowed in most European countries.

 

CanaPuff 10-OH-THC Flowers, Permanent Marker flavor, 10-OH-THC 60%

Flowers and prerolls with 10-OH-THC should ideally be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Degradation is best prevented by airtight containers.

Conclusion

10-OH-THC is a relatively new cannabinoid derivative that is produced by chemical modification of classic THC, specifically by hydroxylation and hydrogenation. Research on its effects is still limited, but preliminary indications suggest similar benefits to other cannabinoids, albeit in a milder form. This cannabinoid, which binds primarily to CB1 receptors in the brain, has weaker psychoactive effects than THC and shows potential for improving sleep quality, relieving stress, anxiety, pain and inflammatory conditions.

 

Author: Canatura

 

 

Photo: ChatGPT

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