THC isn’t something new for most cannabis users. THC content is often a top priority when choosing new strains or products.Formally known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (or D-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), THC is the cannabinoid generally associated with the mind-altering "high" produced by marijuana. There are many other cannabinoids and hundreds of active compounds in cannabis, but THC is the most well-known.Many people are confused when it comes to THCa. What are the differences between THCa and THCa? And why is it important? We're here to help you understand the basics and answer your most frequently asked questions.
What is the difference between THCa and Delta 9 THC?
THCa and THC differ in important ways, apart from the addition of one letter to their abbreviated titles.THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is an inactive cannabinoid contained in the trichomes of live and freshly-harvested cannabis.THC is the active or psychotropic version of the same cannabinoid. It is not found in freshly-harvested cannabis.THCa and THC have very similar chemical compositions. However, THCa contains one additional carboxyl group. In simple terms, THC can be described as the "precursor to THC."THCa does not bind with the CB1 and CB2 receptors of our body's endocannabinoid system. Its three-dimensional, large shape makes it difficult to fit into the CB1 receptors. To produce intoxicating effects, a cannabinoid must be able to fit into a CB1 receptor. THCa won't do that.The most common misconception about cannabis is that it essentially accumulates THC up to the point of harvest. It actually only produces THCa. THC is absent in either live (freshly harvested) or raw marijuana. How does THCa turn into THC?
How does THCa become THC?
THCa is converted to THC by the chemical process of decarboxylation. This involves using heat/light to remove one carboxyl from cannabinoids. "Decarbing" allows cannabinoids to interact more effectively with your endocannabinoid receptors.Remember that THCa contained one more carboxyl group then THC? After it has been decarboxylated, it loses the extra carboxylic acid group and becomes THC. This chemical change makes it ideal for CB1 receptors. It sets the stage for THC's mind-altering effects.When raw cannabis is heated by either:
- Sunlight
- Temperatures in the room are rising
- Direct heat exposure through smoking, vaping and concentrates and/or DIY carboxylation
Potent Benefits of THCa
THCa research remains in its early stages and there is much to be learned. THCa has shown promising results as a therapeutic agent.These are some of the potential THCa health benefits that were revealed in recent studies.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: THCa has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects since this year. THCa may also be able to inhibit enzymes that cause inflammation and pain.
- THCa could provide protection against neurodegenerative disorders: This may be a way to protect against the harmful effects of neurodegenerative disease.
- Anti-nausea: In 2020, a study found that THCa was more effective than THC in reducing nausea and vomiting.
- THCa can help reduce obesity. This same study also showed that cannabinoid may correct insulin resistance and glucose intolerance. These are critical factors in obesity-related diabetics.
What is a "Good THCa Percentage?"
It is easy to get lost when trying to determine potency using the THCa percentage. Unfortunately, there isn't a standard way for cannabis companies to present testing data to consumers. This makes it difficult to read labels and lab reports.Two methods can be used to test potency: gas chromatography or liquid chromatography. We won't get too technical here, but each method will produce a different potency for the same cannabis sample. It all comes down to the fact that the GC process uses high temperatures to decarboxylate most THCa. The LC process does not require such high temperatures. The results for THCa content and THC content will be different between them.We recommend that you speak to one of our dispensary employees to learn more about how potency affects your cannabis experience.
Is THCa a THC-Additional?
THCa does not "add" any THC to a particular strain or product. THCa refers to THC after decarboxylation.
Discover a variety of THC options
Cannabis Dispensaries in MN can help you suggest the correct dosage depending upon your need. Burnsville cannabis dispensary is stocked with high-quality products and trained staff so that you will find the right product for you.