Have you heard the buzz about THCa lately?
It seems like everyone is talking about this lesser-known cannabinoid and how it’s quickly becoming the new must-have in the world of hemp products.
But what exactly is THCa and how does it differ from the more well-known THC?
Well, buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the nitty-gritty of THC vs THCa and break down what sets these two compounds apart.
From the effects they have to the way they’re used, we’ll give you the lowdown on everything you need to know about THCa, and why it’s some are saying it’s quickly become more appealing than Delta-8 THC.
So, if you’re ready to learn about the newest player in the hemp game, read on!
THCa vs THC – The Basics
First off, let’s define our terms.
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that gets you “high.”
THCa, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is the non-psychoactive compound that is found in raw or live cannabis.
The beauty of the relationship between these two lies in the fact that THCa converts to THC when exposed to specific levels of heat, through a process called decarboxylation.
The Link Between THCa and THC
So, what does this mean for you?
Well, if you’re looking for a psychoactive high, you’ll want to consume cannabis that has been decarboxylated, or “activated.”
This can be done by smoking, vaporizing, or even baking your THCa Flower.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the high, consuming raw or live cannabis high in THCa may be the way to go.
Although this is more common in the recreational cannabis industry, it’s important to note that the ratio of THC to THCa can vary greatly depending on the strain of cannabis.
Some strains have higher levels of THCa and lower levels of THC, while others have the opposite. This is why it’s important to do your research, check TAC levels, and understand the makeup of the specific strain you’re consuming.
However, in the world of hemp, it’s not likely you’ll find any high THC strains around – just THCa.
THCa vs THC Effects
When it comes to effects, THCa has been shown to have therapeutic benefits and can be consumed in raw form.
In contrast, THC is the psychoactive compound that produces the “high” associated with marijuana, and can be consumed via methods involving decarboxylation. These such as smoking, vaporizing, and baking.
Expect effects such as the munchies, some tiredness, red eyes, and an impact on your coordination – IE: you’ll get stoned!
THCa vs THC Consumption Methods
Now, onto consumption methods.
While there’s a gazillion ways to consume regular cannabis or hemp products, there’s a couple we want to showcase specifically, as they relate to the status of the cannabinoids.
Those looking to enjoy THCa, as it is, have a few options. One popular idea is that you can juice the leaves or add them to smoothies. You can also make your own tinctures or capsules using raw cannabis.
Keep in mind that these methods will not produce the psychoactive effects associated with THC.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for the psychoactive effects of THC, you’ll want to decarboxylate your THCa flower before consuming it. This can be done by smoking, vaporizing, or baking your cannabis.
Edibles are another popular way to consume THC, just keep in mind that it can take up to 2 hours for edibles to take effect and the effects can last up to 8 hours.
Which do you choose, THCa or THC?
In conclusion, understanding the difference between THC and THCa is crucial for cannabis enthusiasts. THCa is the non-psychoactive compound found in raw or live cannabis, and when exposed to heat, converts to THC.
So next time you’re picking out your cannabis or THCa rich hemp flower, make sure to take a look at the THCa and THC levels and choose the one that best fits your needs. Happy toking!