If you’re interested in medical marijuana or recreational marijuana jobs, chances are good that you’ve heard the acronym “THC,” but you may not know what it is. THC is short for tetrahydrocannabinol, an organic molecule found in marijuana that is responsible for its psychoactive properties.
THC Structure and Origin
There are actually many different isomers of THC—compounds with the same chemical formula but different configurations. There are only two that cause psychoactive effects: Delta-9-THC and Delta-8-THC. Of these two, Delta-9-THC is the more common of the two forms. The designations Delta-9 and Delta-8 refer to the location of double bonds in one of the carbon rings on the molecule. The position of these bonds help govern whether the molecule can bond with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, creating the psychoactive effects.
THC is produced mainly in glands that surround the flowers of the plant. THC accumulates in trichomes—hairlike structures—on the flowers and leaves of marijuana plants. THC was isolated in 1964 by Raphael Mechoulam and Yechiel Gaoni.
Effects and Uses
When THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, it can lead to many different effects, including but not limited to:
- Relaxation
- Sensory changes
- Sleepiness or fatigue
- Appetite stimulation
- Nausea reduction
- Pain relief
- Accelerated heart rate
As a result of these effects, THC has been recommended as a medical treatment for many different applications, such as pain relief, stress reduction, and sleep aid. Its effects on appetite and nausea have been found useful for cancer patients, AIDS patients, and others undergoing medical treatments that cause nausea or suppress appetite.
THC is the primary compound of interest for recreational marijuana use. Its extract, a yellow, oily substance, has become the primary component in the growing edibles market. Since THC is easily soluble in alcohol and other organic solvents, such as fat, it can easily be added to any number of baked goods in whatever ratio is desired.
THC processing and use can be a specialized skill that is useful for people looking for marijuana jobs. If you would like to work with THC, please contact Ms. Mary Staffing today to learn about suitable jobs in your area.
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