THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), is one of the most common cannabinoids found in cannabis in addition to THC but is oftentimes one of the most misunderstood cannabinoids. Therefore, before exploring more about the benefits, uses, and effects of THCa, it is important to distinguish THC from THCa first so that you can make more informed choices relating to cannabis.
What is THCa and How Does It Differ from THC?
THCa can be viewed as the raw, non-intoxicating precursor to THC and is found in fresh cannabis plants. Upon consuming cannabis in its fresh non-decarboxylated state, it does not induce the classic intoxication sought after by adult cannabis consumers, this is a result of the 1 additional carboxyl group that THCa contains, thus preventing it from binding directly to your cannabinoid receptors in the brain.
When cannabis is heated via methods such as smoking or vaporing, or cooking it may undergo a process known as decarboxylation which will convert THCa to THC. This conversion triggers the psychoactive effects usually associated with cannabis consumption.
Is THCa Psychoactive?
A common question is, is THCa psychoactive? And that answer is no. When you eat THCa raw, it is completely non-psychoactive. That’s why a lot of people prefer THCa for health benefits, and don’t want the effects of THC.
Non-Psychoactive Advantages of THCa
Although THCa doesn’t give “highs,” it is believed to have medicinal benefits that provide great value for individuals who desire relief without altered states of body and mind. Some of THCa’s known non-psychoactive benefits are:
- Anti-inflammatory: THCa may provide anti-inflammatory effects, which can help in reducing inflammation from arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
- Neuroprotectant: New research shows that THCa may protect brain cells, and looks to be a promising non-psychoactive cannabinoid for those who suffer from dementia like Alzheimer’s Disease or Parkinson’s Disease.
- Anti-nausea effects: THCa has antiemetic properties and might be beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy by reducing (or eliminating) nausea without the side effects that accompany intoxication and a high.
- Antioxidant: THCa has antioxidant properties and may help with oxidative stress that leads to chronic illnesses.
- Pain relief: Although it has not been researched as much as THC, THCa also shows some promise in chronic pain management.
These health benefits could make THCa an appealing option for people who are looking for raw cannabis health benefits without experiencing a high or impairment.
Comparing the Benefits of THC against THCa
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is widely known as the psychoactive cannabinoid that produces feelings of euphoria and relaxation. The effects associated with THC predominantly occur due to its action on the brain’s CB1 receptors, which alter mood, perception, and cognition.
Benefits attributed to THC use include:
- Pain relief: THC is effectively used for chronic and severe pain associated with various conditions such as multiple sclerosis and cancer.
- Increased appetite: THC is known to cause “the munchies,” which can help people suffering from serious illnesses causing a loss of appetite.
- Anti-nausea: THC is effective in reducing nausea and vomiting, especially in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
- Improved mood: THC can help with anxiety and depression. It can also produce negative feelings like paranoia in some users.
- Improved sleep: THC is often used to treat insomnia because of its sedation effects.
Unlike THCa, THC will cause psychoactive effects in the user. Some people want these effects for recreational or medicinal purposes and some choose to avoid them.
Combining THC and THCa
There is a wide degree of overlap, and THC and THCa work well together. Raw cannabis products with deeper concentrations of THCa paired with heated cannabis products invoking THC will offer a diverse variety of effects and intensity of effects. The interaction of these compounds is known as entourage effects, where cannabinoids work alongside one another for a greater therapeutic effect.
Choosing THC or THCa
Ultimately, choosing THC or THCa really comes down to your goals and health needs:
- If you require relief without intoxication, products higher in THCa would be better suited for you.
- If you need symptom relief but also do not mind some psychoactivity, you would feel better using THC dominant products.
- You can also use products with both THC and THCa for a better all-round experience.
How to Take THCa for Raw Cannabis Health Benefits
The best way to obtain the raw cannabis health benefits of THCa is to consume it in its natural form. This can be through a juice of cannabis leaves, a tincture, or an oil that has been cold-extracted. Do not heat these products, as it could compromise its non-intoxicating properties.
Summary
The understanding of THC as opposed to THCa gives two different types of compounds that serve different purposes. THCa provides promising anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties and can be advantageous to anyone looking for therapeutic benefits without a “high.” THC is a powerful, psychoactive way to find relief from similar ailments for anyone wanting to be intoxicated.
Both compounds offer value to the medical and recreational user due to the volatile science that encompasses cannabis.
Contact Passion Farms today for trusted THCa products. Talk to a licensed operator and discover what cannabis product works best for your body and health.
Call: 346-449-5408
Email Us: info@passionfarms.org
