The 2018 Farm Bill, also known as the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, was a significant milestone for the cannabis industry. It legalized the cultivation and sale of industrial hemp at the federal level, thus opening the doors for the development of the hemp-derived CBD industry. 2024 could lead to a renaissance of cannabis for the following reasons:
- Maturing Regulatory Framework: By mid 2024, it is expected that a more mature and clear regulatory framework for cannabis will be in place. The ambiguity around the legal status of cannabis has been a significant challenge for the industry, but this is expected to improve over time, leading to increased consumer confidence and business opportunities.
- Increased Research and Development: The 2018 Farm Bill also opened the doors for more research into the cannabis plant and its compounds. This could lead to new discoveries and applications, driving further growth in the industry.
- Mainstream Acceptance: As more people become aware of the potential benefits of cannabis, especially for medical use, its acceptance in mainstream society is expected to grow.
Regarding new variants of THC, the primary psychoactive component in cannabis, one of the most promising is THCp. THCp, or tetrahydrocannabiphorol, is a recently discovered compound that is similar to THC but appears to be significantly more potent.
Some of the potential benefits of THCp include:
- Increased Potency: Initial research suggests that THCp might be 30 times more potent than Delta 9 THC. This could open up new possibilities for medical applications, especially for conditions that respond well to high doses of cannabinoids.
- Potential Medical Benefits: While research is still in its early stages, there is potential for THCp to be used in the treatment of various conditions like chronic pain, inflammation, and neurological disorders.
- Unique Effects: The unique structure of THCp may lead to different effects compared to other cannabinoids. Further research could uncover new experiences and benefits for users.
In conclusion, the 2018 Farm Bill set the stage for a potential renaissance of cannabis in 2024, driven by a maturing regulatory environment, increased research, and growing mainstream acceptance. New compounds like THCp also promise to contribute to this growth, offering increased potency and potential medical benefits.
