Preface
In recent years, THC gummies have grown into one of the most recognizable product forms within the cannabinoid market. The combination of a fixed dosage, smoke-free use, and an accessible gummy form has made this product category popular with a broad audience — from people new to THC products to more experienced users seeking a controlled and long-lasting experience.
In this article, we discuss THC as a cannabinoid from a chemical and biological perspective, compare the gummy form with other cannabinoid products, and provide an overview of the brands and products available through Dr Smart Shop . This article is purely informative and contains no usage advice or medical claims. THC gummies are intended for adults only.
The goal is to provide a nuanced and factual picture of THC gummies as a product category, so that interested parties can form a well-considered impression based on reliable background information.
THC as a cannabinoid: chemical and biological background
Tetrahydrocannabinol, abbreviated as THC, is the most studied psychoactive cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. The substance was first isolated and characterized in 1964 by the Israeli chemist Raphael Mechoulam, who was later also involved in the discovery of the endocannabinoid system. THC belongs to the class of phytocannabinoids — cannabinoids that are naturally produced in the plant.
Chemically, THC is a terpenoid compound with the molecular formula C₂₁H₃₀O₂. In the body, the substance binds primarily to the CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system, which are found mainly in the brain and central nervous system. This binding is responsible for the psychoactive properties of THC. CB2 receptors, which are primarily located in the immune system, are activated to a lesser extent by THC.
In addition to delta-9-THC — the most common and well-known variant — other THC isomers exist, such as delta-8-THC and THC-P (tetrahydrocannabiphorol). THC-P is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that was first described in scientific literature in 2019 and has a significantly higher affinity for the CB1 receptor than delta-9-THC. This explains why THC-P products are positioned as more intense products within the market.
Absorption via the digestive tract: how does it work?
The distinction between THC gummies and inhaled cannabis products lies not only in the form but also in the physiology of absorption. When a gummy is consumed, the active substance is first digested in the stomach and subsequently absorbed through the intestinal wall, after which it reaches the liver via the portal vein.
In the liver, THC undergoes a process called first-pass metabolism. During this process, part of the THC is converted into 11-hydroxy-THC, a metabolite that is also psychoactive and crosses the blood-brain barrier more easily than the parent compound. This partly explains why the effects of gummies are perceived as more intense by some people than those of inhaled cannabis, even at comparable dosages.
The total absorption time averages 30 to 90 minutes, depending on factors such as metabolism, stomach contents, and individual sensitivity. The sustained effect typically lasts 4 to 8 hours. This long-lasting profile clearly distinguishes gummies from vapes and cartridges, where the effect sets in within a few minutes but also wears off more quickly.
THC gummies versus CBD gummies: the key differences
THC and CBD are both cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, but they differ fundamentally in their interaction with the endocannabinoid system and in their legal status.
Psychoactivity
THC binds directly to the CB1 receptor and thereby causes psychoactive effects. CBD has no direct binding to CB1 or CB2 receptors and is not psychoactive. This is the most essential distinction between the two cannabinoids and determines how products are positioned and communicated to the consumer.
Legal framework
In the Netherlands, products with a THC content of up to 0,2% are legally available as consumer products. CBD products without psychoactive THC are generally freely available without a THC limit. Products containing both CBD and THC — such as the Forbidden Fruit Space Gummies with 5 mg CBD and 5 mg THC per gummy — also fall within the legal framework, provided that the total THC content does not exceed the 0,2% limit.
Combination products
Some products deliberately combine THC and CBD in a fixed ratio. In cannabis literature, the interplay between cannabinoids and terpenes is referred to as the entourage effect—a term that refers to the supposed synergy between various plant compounds. Combination products capitalize on this notion by bringing together multiple cannabinoids in a single product.
Brands and products in the THC gummies segment
Dr Smart Shop offers THC gummies from three specialized brands, each with its own product line and positioning.
Stoney
Stoney is a brand that focuses on accessible, accurately dosed THC gummies for a broad audience. Stoney THC Gummies contain 5 mg of THC per gummy and are available in packs of 5 and 10. Additionally, Stoney also offers THC-P Gummies with 10 mg each, aimed at more experienced users.
Forbidden Fruit
Forbidden Fruit offers two product lines: the regular Space Gummies (5 mg CBD + 5 mg THC per gummy, 5 pieces) and the Fast-Acting Space Gummies (also 5 mg CBD + 5 mg THC, available in packs of 5 and 10 pieces). The fast-acting variant was developed for faster absorption than conventional gummies. All Forbidden Fruit products are vegan and sugar-free.
Cannablast
Cannablast forms a third brand line within Dr Smart Shop's THC assortment. This brand completes the offering for users looking for an alternative product identity within the same product category.
Buy THC gummies at Dr Smart Shop
Dr Smart Shop offers the complete THC gummies assortment via the THC gummies collection . All products come from brands that are transparent about their composition, origin, and laboratory results, and fall within the legally permitted THC content of a maximum of 0,2%.
The THC gummies collection is part of the broader THC product range , which includes shots and mouth spray in addition to gummies. This offers consumers the opportunity to compare different product forms within a single platform and choose based on personal preference and usage context.
Orders placed before 16:00 PM on business days are shipped the same day, discreetly packaged and without recognizable outer packaging. Free shipping is available from €45.
Frequently asked questions about buying THC gummies
What is the difference between delta-9-THC and THC-P?
Why do THC gummies work differently than a vape?
What is the entourage effect in cannabis products?
Are the THC gummies at Dr Smart Shop vegan?
Where can I buy THC gummies at Dr Smart Shop?
THC gummies combine a rich botanical and cultural history with a modern, standardized product form. The combination of precise dosing, smoke-free use, and a long-lasting effect profile makes them a recognizable and transparent choice within the broad cannabinoid landscape offered by Dr Smart Shop.
