Cannabinoids are integral to defining the effects of different strains. They are chemical compounds found in the hemp plant (a plant in the botanical class of Cannabis sativa cultivars). Cannabinoids can be of three types: phytocannabinoids (found in the plant), endocannabinoids (produced in our body), and synthetic cannabinoids (made in laboratories).
Cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system or ECS and are responsible for therapeutic and psychoactive effects. THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) and THC (Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol) are two popular cannabinoids derived from hemp. While over a hundred cannabinoids have been discovered, only a few have made it into the hemp market. Reason?
The hemp industry is still growing, and plenty of research and time is needed to understand if all of them offer promising benefits like the existing and relatively mainstream cannabinoids available today.
Let’s move on to understanding THCA and THC. While both sound somewhat similar, they have distinct properties and effects.
The Difference Between THCA and THC
THCA: It is the chemical precursor, an acidic form of THC, meaning THC is a converted form of THCA. It is non-psychoactive and does not create a high in its raw form. Instead, it gives a mild, calming effect.
THC: Delta-9 THC is present in many strains and is known to produce a head high. It has potential therapeutic properties, but users prefer it for recreational use. Although most of the research covers hemp, THC is a major piece of the puzzle.
THCA is converted into THC through a process called decarboxylation. It involves heating THCA to remove the additional carboxylic acid group (COOH). So, if you eat or drink raw THCA flowers as salad or smoothie, you won’t get high, but if you heat them in a joint or vaporizer, they will transform into THC, and you know what follows.
However, decarboxylation does not occur only when you manually heat THCA. THCA is present in fresh, live hemp. As it matures, it gradually transforms into Delta 9. Sunlight also plays a significant role in this transformation process.
The Benefits of THCA
Anecdotal evidence and preliminary research suggest that THCA is non-psychoactive but offers various therapeutic effects, including:
- Relaxation: It may promote relaxation and calmness without getting you high, like THC.
- Inflammation Reduction: According to the National Library of Medicine, THCA may have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Neuroprotection: THCA has been found to have the potential to aid in treating neurodegenerative disorders.
- Seizures: A 2017 research found that THCA has exhibited anticonvulsant (anti-seizure) activities in several studies.
The Benefits of THC
We all know about THC’s high, but is that all? No, THC can do more than that. According to research and anecdotal evidence, THC has a variety of potential therapeutic effects, like:
- Sleep Aid: It may promote restful sleep with its relaxing and euphoric effects, as found in a 2022 study.
- Pain Relief: Various studies have shown that THC may have analgesic or pain-relieving properties, which could be part of its psychoactive effects.
- Appetite: A 1994 study found that THC may improve appetite. Those who have tried THC before may understand its appetite-boosting power.
Consumer Considerations
You may use THCA or THC, depending on what you want. Your desired effects will help you choose what’s best for you. However, if you buy THCA flowers or pre-rolls, lighting them up will get you THC instead. So, THCA is the win-win deal here.
Summary: THCA is the non-psychoactive precursor to THC found in raw hemp. While THCA offers benefits like relaxation and inflammation reduction, it converts to psychoactive THC when heated. THC provides effects like pain relief and appetite stimulation, making both cannabinoids valuable depending on the desired outcome.
