2024 Cannabinoid Matchup: THCA vs. Hemp-Derived Delta 9 THC

The hemp marketplace keeps finding new ways to give us the high we’re looking for from cannabis, in a way that’s totally compliant with federal law. And, manufacturers have made that easier than ever with two fantastic additions to the industry: THCA and hemp-derived delta 9 THC. They share a lot in common with one another, so let’s compare them to help you decide which option you might want to choose.

What is THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)?

THCA refers to the raw, acidic form of THC (delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol) that dominates raw marijuana, and also occurs naturally in hemp. THCA is pre-decarboxylated, meaning that it hasn’t yet been heated to a specific temperature that converts it into delta 9 THC. Once heat is applied in the right amount, THCA’s chemical structure changes, and it turns into delta 9. THCA and delta 9 have different properties and effects from one another.

What’s the High Like?

THCA is not intoxicating in its pre-decarboxylated form, because raw cannabinoids have different chemical structures from their post-decarboxylated counterparts. THCA simply cannot attach to the brain’s CB1 receptors like delta 9, and it’s those receptors that are responsible for the high we get from THC.

Because of this, certain THCA products, like gummies and tinctures, won’t get you high, because the THCA does not undergo heating as part of the process of using these products. But, for products that must be heated to be consumed, like concentrates (dabs), vape products, and THCA flower, the THCA inevitably converts into delta 9 THC, and so what you’re actually experiencing is the high of THC, which is the same as the THC high you get from marijuana.

Does THCA Have Benefits?

The THCA products that you’ll find on the market largely come in vape, flower, and concentrate form, which means that the benefits you’ll derive from these products isn’t due to THCA, but rather delta 9 THC. With that being said, delta 9 THC has been studied at length for its benefits over many decades, and thus, is one of the most well-researched cannabis derivatives to date. So, we actually have a great understanding of its potential benefits, which include:

• Anti-inflammatory effects
• Anxiolytic effects
• Antiemetic effects
• Appetite-boosting effects
• Neuroprotective effects
• Analgesic effects
• Sleep-enhancing effects

Does THCA Have Side Effects?

All cannabinoids can cause side effects, just like pretty much any substance, but thankfully, cannabis-related side effects are mild and non-life-threatening, not to mention short-lived. THCA and delta 9 THC are nontoxic to the human system, but THCA products may cause:

• Dry mouth
• Dry eyes
• Dizziness
• Forgetfulness
• Drowsiness
• Clumsiness
• Paranoia
• Anxiety

Now, keep in mind that these side effects are largely dose-dependent, and tolerance-dependent. In other words, the higher your dose, the more likely you’ll experience side effects, and the same applies to those who have a low tolerance. So, the key to avoiding them is simply pacing yourself by taking a relatively low dose if you’re a beginner, and working your way up.

Who Would Prefer THCA?

The main appeal of THCA is the fact that it offers a legal workaround to restrictions on delta 9 THC, as federal law prohibits products that contain more than 0.3% delta 9 THC, but does not restrict THCA in any way, despite the fact that most THCA products that you’ll find for purchase are intended to provide you with a high dose of delta 9.

What is Hemp-Derived Delta 9 (Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol)?

Delta 9 THC exists in both hemp and marijuana, but it’s largely known as the dominant chemical compound in marijuana, and it’s responsible for the plant’s legendary psychoactive properties. In hemp, there’s only trace levels of THC, and like we said, it’s a heavily restricted cannabinoid in terms of legality. At the same time, you can find hemp-derived delta 9 products that work around the limitations of delta 9 by being sold in extra-large serving sizes, which mean that 0.3% THC comes out to enough milligrams per serving to get people nice and high.

What’s the High Like?

Delta 9 THC is one of the most sought-after intoxicants in the world, so clearly its high is extremely appealing to a large number of people. It’s described as both euphoric and calming, with a body high that can put the muscles at ease. Keep in mind that the high you’ll get from hemp-derived delta 9 products is the same as the high you’ll get from THCA vapes, flower, and dabs, again because these products also give you delta 9 at the end of the day.

Does Hemp-Derived Delta 9 Have Benefits?

Again, delta 9 THC is simply decarboxylated THCA, and so the benefits of hemp-derived delta 9 THC are the same benefits that we described earlier. Again, these benefits include:

• Anti-inflammatory effects
• Anxiolytic effects
• Analgesic effects
• Appetite-boosting effects
• Sleep-enhancing effects
• Neuroprotective effects
• Anti-nausea effects

Does Hemp-Derived Delta 9 Have Side Effects?

The potential side effects for which you might get from taking detla 9 are identical as the ones we went over earlier with most THCA products. Again, those side effects are:

• Dry mouth
• Dry eyes
• Dizziness
• Forgetfulness
• Drowsiness
• Clumsiness
• Paranoia
• Anxiety

Who Would Prefer Hemp-Derived Delta 9 THC?

Hemp-derived delta 9 THC products typically come in the form of edibles, because it’s easy to take large doses of, say, a mouthwatering gummy candy, or a chocolate chip cookie. So, if you’re someone who prefers THC in edible form rather than inhalable form, like vaping, dabbing, or smoking, then hemp-derived delta 9 products are probably what you’re going to prefer.

Which One Will You Choose?

THCA and hemp-derived delta 9 THC are ultimately the same thing, but as you can see, the products they come in are different. Thankfully, both are ultimately legal as well, and you’re free to explore both of them to your heart’s content. The Delta 9 products and the THCA products you’ll find at the Calm Leaf ensure that everyone can get the experience they’re looking for, with a wide selection of product types, strains, flavors, strengths, and more to check out.