The major chemicals in marijuana are called cannabinoids, and the most popular among them are Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCa) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). But, let’s clear something up quickly: THCa and THC are not the same despite sounding alike. In this article, I will differentiate THCa and THC to help you understand what you may be exposed to.
Key Takeaways
- THCa is a raw, non-psychotic form of THC that you can consume without getting high.
- You can convert THCa to THC through a process called decarboxylation.
- THCa is commonly consumed for its well-being benefits, while THC is often used for recreational consumption.
THCa and THC: Understanding Both Cannabinoids
First things first, THCa and THC are not the same. THCa (or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is a natural form of cannabinoid found in the marijuana plant. When consumed, it does not trigger cannabinoid receptors in the brain. Think of it as a no-buzz cannabis (it’s non-psychotic or without the “high” feeling).
On the flip side, traditional THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol is the major psychotic substance present in the marijuana plant. When you consume it, your endocannabinoid system gets triggered and a “high” feeling that alters the mind follows. The after effects include relaxation, euphoria, and increased appetite, to name a few.
But there’s a thin line between both because you can actually turn THCa to THC intentionally or not. The conversion process comes down to heat. When you smoke, vape, or cook THCa it changes form to THC through a process called decarboxylation. That’s a fancy way of saying heat can change THCa to THC. That’s why eating raw cannabis won’t do much to your body, but lighting it up will.
THCa vs THC: Similarities and Differences
THCa is essentially THC, but in its raw form. While THCa doesn’t get you high, it offers other health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anti-nausea properties. THCa becomes THC through heating and this unlocks the psychotic effects most users associate with cannabis use.
Beyond its psychotic properties, THC has a massive potential to promote wellbeing, such as pain relief, anti-nausea effects, and appetite stimulation. However, it could also cause anxiety, paranoia, and impaired memory or coordination.
Ultimately THc and THCa aren’t the same so let me tell you where the core differences exist between them.
Psychotic Properties
THCa is cannabis in its raw, unheated form. It doesn’t give the high feeling typically associated with marijuana consumption. Due to its structure, THCa won’t trigger the body’s receptors that cause the high feeling.
Conversely, THC is a processed version of THCa that gives psychotic effects, and when consumed via smoking, vaping, or other means, it causes the high feeling associated with cannabis. This is because THC binds with C1 receptors that trigger mood changes, reduced pain, and altered perception.
Potential Wellness Benefits
THCa and THC could be used for their wellness properties. These claims state that even in its non-psychotic form, THCa may be a good anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective substance. Ongoing research also suggests that it may be useful in treating and preventing inflammatory and neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s. However, there is no clearcut evidence to back these claims yet.
On the other hand, THC is known for its near-instant pain relief, anti-nausea, and appetite stimulation properties. According to recent research, THC might be as effective for pain relief as opioids like codeine, but without serious side effects.
Consumption Methods
THCa and THC also differ in how they are consumed by users. THCa is mostly consumed in its unheated form. Think of adding the powder to a drink, taking it as a dietary supplement, or making a juice from the leaves. With these methods, cannabis can be consumed without any psychotic properties.
Meanwhile, THC’s psychotic effects can only be triggered through heating. Think of smoking, vaping, or heating for edibles like pastry during the baking process.
Legality
While you have the freedom to choose which style of cannabis consumption you want, it’s crucial to understand its legal status where you live. Though many states and countries are open to legalizing marijuana, regulation remains unclear or strict in several other places.
In some regions, THCa could be legal while THC is not because it’s non-psychotic. In other words, ensure you understand your local laws before consuming THCa or THC.
THC vs THCa: Which is Better For You?
Now that we’ve established that THC is the psychotic variant of THCa, which is non-psychotic, which one should you choose? Simply put, it depends on what you’re trying to achieve. If your goal is getting wellness benefits from cannabis without the high, THCa is the better choice. It helps you avoid intoxication.
However, if your goal is instant relief from pain or other symptoms, THC is usually more effective. Just bear in mind that THC will get you high.
Ultimately, the choice is yours, but you should consider the legalities around the consumption of THCa and THC in your jurisdiction. Have fun!