What is CBDP and what products can you offer your customers?
- What is CBDP?
- CBDP production
- Effects
- Side effects
- Legislation
- CBDP product range
- Conclusion: Don't forget the lab analysis
What is CBDP?
CBDP stands for cannabidiophenol, a rare phytocannabinoid that occurs naturally in the cannabis plant. It is the heptyl homologue of cannabidiol (CBD). Until recently, or before 2019, it was not considered a natural cannabinoid and carried the label of a synthetic compound. This substance is also called CBD-C7 and CBD-heptyl.
In 2019, the Italian group of scientists behind the discovery of THCP identifiedit as a natural phytocannabinoid and isolated it from the cannabis plant. They used state-of-the-art techniques to do so, including high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS).
The molecular formula of CBDP is C23H34O2. Unlike CBD, which is characterised by a 5-membered alkyl side chain, CBDP has a 7-membered chain.
Production of CBDP
As CBDP is found in hemp, it is not considered a synthetic substance. But since extraction directly from the plant cannot cover commercial production, CBDP is produced in the laboratory by isomerisation from CBD isolate, which is cannabidiol in crystal form. It is therefore referred to as a semi-synthetic compound, similar to HHC or H4CBD.
Effects
At present, knowledge of CBDP is still limited and further research is needed to gain a comprehensive understanding of its mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic potential.
A 2018 study suggested that the side chain length in cannabinoid compounds may alter the affinity and pharmacology of cannabinoid receptors. Therefore, some believe that it is the modification of CBDP's structure that allows it to bind to CB2 receptors more effectively than CBD.
However, a 2019 study published in the peer-reviewed journal Scientific Reports and backed by Italian researchers states that CBDP, on the other hand, has low binding to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, so it's most likely not the case that a longer side chain would help CBDP bind more effectively to receptors in the body.
While the researchers in this study believe that further investigation into the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-epileptic activity of cannabidiol will continue, this is not a priority at the moment.
In 2021, a study was published, again by Italian scientists, looking at its potential against breast cancer. The study suggested that CBDP has effects similar to CBD but more potent and it seems that it could help fight breast cancer cells, at least in cell culture. Another interesting finding was that CBDP may enhance the effect of some anti-cancer drugs already in use.
Each substance undoubtedly acts a little differently in each organism. At the moment, there are not enough clinical studies on CBDP, so it is not possible to put together a reliable statement on how it works.
Current user experience suggests that CBDP probably has a stronger effect than CBD and is also not psychoactive. Cannabidiol could therefore be an alternative for those customers looking for a 'stronger version of cannabidiol'.
Side effects
Each new compound requires a thorough safety profile to evaluate its potency, potential therapeutic potential, safety and appropriate route of consumption.
As with any compound, potential side effects may occur with CBDP. Some users may experience mild symptoms such as fatigue, drowsiness, dry mouth or changes in appetite.
Side effects usually subside after a short time. The intensity of these effects will depend on several factors such as age, body proportions, sensitivity, dose and also the method of consumption.
Legislation
With regard to cannabinoids, legislation is significantly influenced by local regulations and policies on cannabis derivatives. In 2018, the so-called Farm Bill legalised all cannabis derivatives as long as they contain up to 0.3% THC on dry weight basis, in the Czech Republic the limit is 1% THC.
The farm bill therefore defines CBDP as legal, but laws regarding cannabinoids may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Some states may have stricter rules regarding the sale and use of these products and others may have no regulations at all. In the case of cross-border sales, always keep an eye on the legislation of the country in question.
Currently, CBDP is allowed in most European countries, including the Czech Republic. It is not an authorised substance in Norway.
CBDP product range
CBDP products are already available in the Czech Republic. On our e-shop we offer Canntropy CBDP vape pens and cartridges. You can get Canntropy cartridges for example in the flavours Mango and Watermelon Zlushie with CBDP distillate supplemented with CBD and natural terpenes, with a THC content of 0%. We also have CBDP flowers, which are sticks of technical cannabis infused with CBDP distillate with a maximum THC content of 0.2%, as well as hash and distillate. CBDP distillate contains 92% CBDP and there are a variety of flavours to choose from.
Conclusion: Don't forget the lab analysis
CBDP is a phytocannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is the heptyl homologue of CBD. CBDP is produced in the laboratory by isomerisation from a CBD isolate, hence it is referred to as a semi-synthetic compound.
Other examples of (semi)synthetic cannabinoids include HHC, H4CBD, THCH, THCB, THCJD, THCO, THCP, HHCH and others. In general, (semi)synthetic compounds can be significantly more potent than natural cannabinoids, thus multiplying the potential risk of overdose and intoxication. Keep this in mind and inform your customers as well.
Following the ban on HHC, HHCO and THCP in March, it can be assumed that customers will be looking for alternatives. If you want to incorporate new compounds into your e-commerce, focus only on products that have undergone third-party laboratory analysis. This will give you confidence that the products you offer to your customers do not contain undesirable substances (pesticides, heavy metals or solvents) and will also, among other things, let you know what the actual cannabinoid content of the product is.
Delight your customers with CBDP products, offer them vape pens and cartridges, flowers, hash or distillate.
Finally, here are some other articles you might find interesting in relation to the new cannabinoids:
Photo: Shutterstock
"All information provided on this website, as well as the information provided through this website, is for educational purposes only. None of the information contained herein is intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis and such information is not to be considered medical advice or recommended treatment. This website does not promote, endorse or advocate the legal or illegal use of narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances or the commission of any other illegal activity. Please see our Disclaimer for further information.“