Originally Posted On: https://www.cbdmd.com/blogs/posts/what-is-nano-thc

What is Nano THC?

When nanotechnology is used to break down THC into very small bits, it is called nano THC. THC has traditionally been an oil that doesn’t mix well with water. Because of this, the body, which is mostly water, can’t process THC molecules well without help from oils, fats, or other methods of delivery.

THC is “nano-emulsified,” which means it is shrunk down to nanometer-sized pieces that are easier to mix with water. This change from oil-based chemicals to tiny particles that can dissolve in water creates a form of THC that acts in the body differently than regular THC.

How is Nano THC Made?

A process called nanoemulsion is usually used to make nano THC. Water, THC oil, and special emulsifying agents are mixed with mechanical energy (like ultrasound waves or high-pressure mixing) in this process. As a result, the big oil drops that contain THC are broken up into nanoscale-sized particles.

These very tiny bits are made so that they don’t stick together when they’re in liquids. Nano THC can be added to drinks and other things that wouldn’t usually mix well with cannabis oils because it stays spread out evenly.

Traditional THC vs Nano THC

To understand what makes nano THC stand out, it’s helpful to compare it with how THC has traditionally been consumed.

1. Absorption Pathways

When consumed in edible products, regular THC molecules must go through the digestive system, where the body breaks them down before absorption. This process can take considerable time, often leading to delayed onset of noticeable effects.

Since the molecule size is much smaller, nano emulsified THC may be absorbed through both the digestive system and, in some cases, more quickly through the lining of the mouth or stomach. This can sometimes lead to faster experience times compared to traditional edibles.

2. Mixability

Naturally sticky and resinous, THC does not mix well in water, making it challenging to incorporate into drinks without separation or an oily texture. Since nano THC is designed to stay suspended, it can be added to beverages, liquid tinctures, or sprays without separation, creating more possibilities for product design.

3. Consistency

Depending on how it’s prepared, results from traditional edibles or oils can vary from one person to another due to differences in metabolism. By dispersing THC in finely divided particles, the experience has the potential to be more uniform from serving to serving with nano THC.

Why is Nano THC Becoming Popular?

There are several reasons why nano THC is being explored in the cannabis space:

1. Faster Onset: The smaller particle size may allow the body to process nano THC more quickly compared to the longer wait times often associated with traditional edibles.
2. Product Versatility: Nano THC can be infused into beverages, powdered mixes, mists, and other products.
3. Even Distribution: Because the nano particles stay suspended in liquid, dosing experiences may feel more predictable compared to oil-based preparations, which can leave some servings weaker or stronger than others.

Considerations with Nano THC

While nano THC offers intriguing possibilities, it is worth noting a few points for awareness:

• Individual Variation: Everyone processes THC differently, which means timing and intensity can still vary from person to person, whether the THC is traditional or nano-sized.
• Science Still Emerging: Nanotechnology for cannabis is relatively new, and while many findings are promising, research is ongoing.
• Product Quality: As with all cannabis items, quality depends on how carefully the product is manufactured. Particle size, stability, and consistency play a major role in the final outcome.