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THCA is the acidic precursor to THC found in the cannabis plant, and it develops as the plant matures. THCA is non-intoxicating due to an additional molecular carboxyl ring that prevents it from binding to the receptors responsible for the euphoric effects of THC. Without THCA, we wouldn't have THC, or the potential health benefits attributed to it. When THCA is exposed to heat, however, it converts to THC, the intoxicating cannabinoid that produces the euphoric effects associated with cannabis.
The Calm Leaf carries a wide selection of THCA products, including many that actually provide you with THC, through the inevitable heating process that comes with vapes, flower, and concentrates. Even though these products produce a delta 9 THC high, they’re compliant with federal law, as they contain the legal limit of THC at the time of testing. Basically, the THCA products that we carry give you the same high associated with cannabis, and because of that, THCA has become enormously popular on the hemp market.
THCA stands for Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid. It’s a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant that is the precursor to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the well-known psychoactive compound.
No, THCA itself is not psychoactive. It only becomes psychoactive when it’s decarboxylated, typically through heat or time, converting it into THC.
THCA and THC have similar chemical structures but different properties. THCA is the acidic form found in raw cannabis, while THC is the psychoactive form that results from THCA's decarboxylation.
THCA's boiling point is around 220-240°C (428-464°F). This is the temperature range at which it starts to decarboxylate into THC.
Research suggests that THCA may have anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antiemetic (anti-nausea) properties. However, more studies are needed to fully understand its therapeutic potential.
THCA is generally considered to be alright to take, but like other cannabis compounds, it may cause side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, or fatigue in some individuals.
THCA can be found in the following:
Yes, some individuals use THCA in combination with other cannabinoids. There are even hemp products available on the marketplace that already combine THCA with other cannabinoids (sometimes at a higher or lower percentage of THCA depending upon the product type, other cannabinoids being used, and the company themselves who manufacture the product).
THCA typically does not result in positive drug test results since standard drug tests usually target THC. However, it is essential to be cautious as some tests may cross-react with THCA.
On a federal level, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, THCA is legal. Still, certain states have restrictions on THCA, so always check local laws and regulations.
When it comes to dosing, it’s best for those new to this cannabinoid who came from taking other cannabinoids to start low and slow, as they build up a tolerance. Generally, you should follow the instructions on the package, which will tell you the appropriate amount of THCA to take for the best results.
THCA is better suited for more intermediate to experience hemp users due to its effects (before being heated and turning into THC) being stronger than CBD.
There are no known cases of fatal overdose from THCA. However, consuming large amounts of THCA or cannabis products may lead to discomfort and adverse effects.
While THCA is often described as a non-psychoactive precursor to THC, that doesn't necessarily mean it has no impact on one's faculties. When heated, THCA can convert to THC, which is psychoactive. If someone consumes THCA and then heats it to then be consumed/inhaled into their body, then they could inadvertently be consuming THC. Also, different people may metabolize or react to substances in unique ways. Just because one person feels fine after taking a substance doesn't mean everyone will.
Laws regarding driving under the influence of drugs vary by jurisdiction. Some places might have zero-tolerance policies, while others may have set limits similar to blood alcohol content regulations for alcohol. Always check local regulations before driving after consuming any potentially psychoactive substance.
THCA can degrade over time when exposed to heat, light, and air. To preserve its content, it's best to store cannabis in a cool, dark place, ideally in an airtight container. Also, how long it lasts depends upon the product form its in.