Drug and Alcohol
THC Vs. THCA: What's the Difference?
THC vs. THCA - how do they differ? THCA is the non-psychoactive precursor to THC, activated through decarboxylation. Learn about their effects and legalities.
THC and THCA are two both cannabis compounds, albeit with an important distinction. While THC, or delta-9, is well-known for its psychoactive effects, THCA is non-psychoactive in its raw form, and this distinction is crucial for those seeking the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the “high” associated with typical marijuana use.
If you’re confused about the differences between THC vs. THCA, you’re in the right place. Read on for an overview of how these compounds differ in psychoactivity, legal statuses, and more.
What Is THCA?
THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is the non-psychoactive compound found in raw cannabis, and the precursor of the renowned and intoxicating chemical THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol). Cannabis plants contain THCA in their natural state, which is converted into psychoactive THC when heated through smoking, vaping, or cooking, a process called decarboxylation.
Since THCA is non-psychoactive in its raw state, it’s appealing for those who want the potential health benefits of cannabis without experiencing the “high” caused by THC. These therapeutic properties include inflammation reduction, nerve cell protection, easing nausea, and possibly slowing the growth of certain cancer cells.
Does THCA Cause a High?
THCA, in its raw form, does not cause a high because it doesn’t interact with the brain’s cannabinoid receptors responsible for psychoactivity. However, when THCA is heated, such as through smoking or vaping, it converts into THC, the compound that produces the euphoric high associated with cannabis. Therefore, consuming raw cannabis with THCA won’t have any psychoactive effects, but heating it will cause the high associated with THC.
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How THCA Becomes THC: Decarboxylation
THCA becomes THC through a process called decarboxylation. This chemical reaction occurs when cannabis is exposed to heat, such as during smoking, vaping, or cooking. The heat removes a carboxyl group from the THCA molecule, converting it into THC. This process is essential for unlocking the psychoactive effects of cannabis, as raw THCA does not produce a high on its own.
THCA Potential Health Benefits
THCA is gaining attention for its potential health benefits, ranging from possible anti-inflammatory effects to antiemetic effects, neuroprotective properties, and more without the high produced by THC. These possible health benefits include:
Anti-Inflammatory
THCA is known for its possible anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and pain in conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
Antiemetic
THCA may also act as an antiemetic, helping to alleviate nausea and vomiting. This can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy or those with chronic illnesses that cause severe nausea.
Antioxidant
As an antioxidant, THCA can potentially protect cells from oxidative stress and damage. This property may contribute to overall health and may reduce the risk of various chronic diseases.
Neuroprotective
THCA may exhibit neuroprotective effects, meaning it can help protect brain cells from damage and degeneration. This can make it a promising compound for conditions like Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Possible Risks of THCA Use
While THCA is gaining attention for its potential health benefits, it’s important to be aware of the possible risks associated with its use. These include:
Conversion to THC
One of the primary risks of using THCA is its conversion to THC when exposed to heat. This process can lead to psychoactive effects, which may not be desirable for all users, especially those seeking non-intoxicating benefits.
Individual Sensitivity
People can react differently to THCA, with some individuals experiencing adverse effects even at low doses. Sensitivity to cannabinoids varies, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another, potentially leading to unwanted side effects.
Cognitive Effects
Although THCA itself is non-psychoactive, its conversion to THC can impact cognitive functions. This can include impaired memory, altered judgment, and reduced concentration, which are important considerations for those needing to maintain mental clarity.
Respiratory Issues
Smoking or vaping cannabis to convert THCA to THC can pose respiratory risks. Inhaling smoke or vapor can irritate the lungs and airways, potentially leading to respiratory issues, especially with prolonged use.
Other Side Effects
Other potential side effects of THCA use include dry mouth, fatigue, and gastrointestinal discomfort. It’s also possible for THCA to interact with certain medications, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before use.
The THCA Legal Loophole
The THCA legal loophole refers to the way THCA, a non-psychoactive compound found in raw cannabis, can be legally sold and delivered across state lines under certain conditions despite its potential to convert into THC when heated.
Is THCA Federally Legal?
THCA is considered federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, which defines hemp as cannabis with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight. Since THCA itself is not psychoactive and does not fall under the definition of THC, it can be legally sold and possessed as long as it meets the hemp criteria. However, state laws play a significant role in its legality. Some states have stricter regulations regarding THCA and its potential conversion to THC, which can affect its legal status.
Can THCA Be Shipped Across State Lines?
Yes, THCA can be shipped across state lines under certain conditions. As previously mentioned, THCA is legal if it comes from hemp that contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC due to the 2018 Farm Bill. So, as long as the THCA product meets this requirement, it can be legally shipped across state lines. However, keep in mind that some states have their own rules and might restrict or ban THCA products.
On the other hand, THC products cannot be shipped across state lines. Even though marijuana is legal in some states, THC is still considered a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, and transporting THC across state lines is seen as drug trafficking which can lead to federal criminal charges.
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Wrapping Up: THC Vs. THCA
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) are both found in cannabis, but they have some important differences. THCA is actually the precursor to THC. This means that in its raw form, THCA doesn’t produce any psychoactive effects or “high.” However, when THCA is heated through smoking, vaping, or cooking, it undergoes a process called decarboxylation and converts into THC, which is the compound responsible for the euphoric effects.
Legally, THCA is generally more accepted if it comes from hemp with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC, a legal loophole that many distributors are taking advantage of. THC, on the other hand, is still considered illegal under federal law and can’t be transported across state lines. While both compounds interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system, THC binds more strongly to certain receptors, which is why it has psychoactive effects, while THCA does not in its raw state.
Whether you’re seeking therapeutic benefits without the high or exploring the psychoactive effects, being aware of how these compounds work is crucial for knowledgable and responsible use.
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Written by
Monty MontgomeryContent Writer
Reviewed by
Jeremy ArztChief Clinical Officer
Drug and Alcohol
October 10, 2024
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
THC and THCA are both compounds found in cannabis, but they have different effects and structures. THCA is the raw, non-psychoactive form of THC. When cannabis is heated, such as through smoking or cooking, THCA converts into THC, which is the compound that causes the high associated with marijuana. Essentially, THCA needs to be heated to become THC and produce psychoactive effects.
In its natural state, THCA does not get you high because it doesn’t interact with the brain’s receptors that cause psychoactive effects. However, when THCA is heated, it turns into THC, which can then produce a high. So, consuming raw cannabis with THCA won’t make you feel intoxicated, but heating it will activate its psychoactive properties.
THCA is being researched for its potential health benefits, which may include reducing inflammation, protecting brain cells, and easing nausea. It might help with conditions like arthritis by reducing pain and muscle spasms, and Alzheimers due to its possible neuroprotective properties. Although more research is needed, THCA shows promise as a therapeutic compound for various health issues.
Yes, THCA is technically federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, provided it is derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. This bill allows for the interstate shipment of hemp-derived products, including THCA. However, state laws vary significantly; some states may treat THCA similarly to THC, which is generally illegal at the federal level but legal in many states for medical or recreational use. Therefore, while THCA can be shipped across state lines, compliance with both federal and state regulations is needed to ensure legality.
THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that is generally illegal at the federal level and classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, though many states have legalized it for medical or recreational use. In contrast, THCA is the non-psychoactive precursor to THC and is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill if derived from hemp and containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. However, state laws vary significantly, with some states treating THCA similarly to THC, while others allow its sale and use under federal guidelines. This creates a complex legal landscape where THCA can be shipped across state lines, but compliance with both federal and state regulations is required.