THCa Explained: Effects, Benefits & How It Converts to THC

Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, each contributing to its complex chemistry and diverse potential uses. More than a hundred cannabinoids have been identified so far, and they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system in unique ways. From well-known names like CBD and THC to lesser-discussed molecules, these compounds are the foundation of cannabis research and innovation.

Among them is THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) — a cannabinoid that’s gaining attention for its role as a precursor to THC and for its own intriguing properties.

THCa, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is one of the primary cannabinoids created by the cannabis or hemp plant, stemming from the “mother of all cannabinoids”, CBGA. As a precursor to the THC that we all know and love, THCa can be found in raw cannabis and hemp that has been properly cured and dried. THCa spontaneously denatures into THCa via exposure to heat and light. Notably, THCa is not psychoactive on its own and must be decarboxylated, or heated, to remove the carboxyl ring that prevents the chemical from binding to our endocannabinoid receptors.

THCa when paired with heat or light but allows users to unlock the psychoactive properties, converting the THCa into delta-9-THC, granting the potential benefits related to THC cannabinoids. However, some people are beginning to use non-psychoactive raw cannabis or hemp within their daily routines via juicing or microdosing capsules, allowing the body to potentially benefit. Another method of use would be grinding raw cannabis or hemp into a fine powder and adding to capsules to allow for easy ingestion without any of the tastes or flavors associated with the hemp or cannabis plant.

THCa has been purported to have a host of benefits that may help further the medical field. With anecdotal claims of inflammation, nausea, and seizure reduction, there are peer-reviewed studies that point towards the medical use of THCa. Some studies have indicated that THCa can also help with the treatment of nausea and vomiting as well, making this a potential avenue of approach when dealing with people who have undergone chemotherapy in treatment against cancer.

One other study provides anecdotal support that THCa can help protect the neurons of the nervous system, like in cases of Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and other similar ailments. Researched in 2012 and 2017, these studies found that mice given THCa were better protected from neurological damage when given cytotoxins and actually helped improve their motor functions and prevented striatal degeneration. The researchers claimed that “delta-9-THCa shows potent neuroprotective activity, which is worth considering for the treatment of Huntington’s disease and possibly other neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases.”

THCa is not deemed illegal on a federal level, however, it could be considered an analogue of THC. THC is still technically illegal and is considered a Schedule 1 drug with high potential for abuse with little or no recognized medical benefits. This scheduling and chemical similarity makes THCa possession and sale prosecutable under the Federal Analogue Act. Adding more confusion to the mix, due to the passing of the landmark 2018 Farm Bill, all hemp products are considered legal as long as the product in question contains less than or equal to 0.3% delta-9-THC. This can be shaky territory as THCa does convert to THC with exposure to light or heat. As for the individual states, it can become illegal should legislation be created and passed. Currently, THCa is illegal in Arkansas, Hawaii, Minnesota, Oregon, and Rhode Island. The landscape of legality of cannabis and its many cannabinoids is constantly changing, so it is best to do your own research

Yes… and no. Pure THCa ingested as an isolate or in the form of raw hemp or cannabis will not get you high. Since THCa does not bind to CB receptors within the endocannabinoid system, due to its molecular shape, THCa must be subjected to heat to decarboxylate and remove a carboxylic acid group to change into delta-9-THC before presenting a potential for psychoactive effects. As the many forms of THCa must be processed with heat, such as in smoking flower or dabbing, the heat used during the process of consumption will make THCa decarboxylate into THC, creating a familiar high.

One product that we carry that have THCa would be the Hidden Hills VVS Liquid Diamond Disposable 2G. Packing 2 grams of delta 8, THC-P, and THCa, this disposable is convenient and portable, perfect for the busy person or someone who is traveling. Maintaining a large window for viewing the filled level, the Liquid Diamond Disposable accurately depicts the remaining concentrate, allowing you to enjoy the disposable till the last drop. With an integrated rechargeable battery, the Hidden Hills Liquid Diamond Disposable is sure to be a great disposable vape for those that want to try these alternate cannabinoids.