If you’ve ever been curious about cannabis and its compounds, you might’ve come across two acronyms: THCA and THC. Often they are very similar, but I assure you that they are in different galaxies when it comes to what they do. So that you can understand the difference like a professional, let me simplify it for you.
Key Takeaways
- THCA is the acidic precursor to THC, the psychoactive component of fresh cannabis.
- THC is formed from THCA by heat, thus the psychoactivity of cannabis is attributed to this molecule.
- This way, you understand what type of product is suitable for your use, depending on the difference between them.
THCA: The Precursor to THC
THCA stands for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, and this is where we should begin our journey. This is what is present in raw cannabis plants in its natural form. If you have ever witnessed fresh buds, then you have seen THCA at work because it is the most dominant cannabinoid before any form of heating or processing.
But here’s the thing: THCA isn’t psychoactive. That means it will not give you “a head change.” It is similar to THC’s more introverted cousin, who stays in the shadows until something comes along (like heat) to bring it out to play.
Now you may be asking yourself, “If it doesn’t make me high, then what is the purpose?” Well, THCA is known to have significant applications now. Still, this is a work in progress, so while we’re not exactly boasting here, we are pretty excited about the potential.
By far, one of the positives of using THCA is because it is readily available in raw cannabis juice or even in smoothies. Yes, individuals use this plant and mix raw cannabis into beverages to get a taste of this compound without the high.
THC: The Activated Cannabinoid
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main chemical that gets most of the attention. This is what most people consider when they hear the word cannabis or marijuana. THC is psychotropic, this is an English equivalent of the Latin word psychotropum which means it can cause euphoria, relaxation or other impact after the consumption of marijuana.
But where does THC come from? Enter decarboxylation. This fancy word is basically referring to the process of using heat on cannabis, be it through smoking, vaping or even baking into edibles. When exposed to heat, THCA releases a portion of its molecule (or a carboxyl group in scientific terms) and turns to THC.
In short, no heat = THCA. Add heat = THC.
Another thing that should be discussed about how THC works within your system. And that’s why, when it binds with CB1 receptors in your brain, you get that well-known high. This is why THC is psychoactive while THCA which is its raw form is not psychoactive.
How THCA and THC Are Used
Knowing how these two cannabinoids work can assist you in determining which one will suit you best.
Using THCA
Therefore, if you want to consume THCA, the best thing you can do is to consume raw cannabis products. These are fresh flowers or concentrates which are designed to keep THCA in the equation at all costs. Just be careful with storage and preparation though because any contact with high heat will turn it into THC.
THCA tinctures are taken by some persons and they are prepared in such a way that the compound cannot decarboxylate. These are usually marketed for their health purposes but be careful to verify your vendors and the laws that apply to them in your state.
Using THC
Opportunities With THC are numerous because the possibilities for its use are massive. THC is activated during the preparation process when it is smoked, vaped or taken as food supplements containing marijuana. To get the psychoactive effects, therefore, consume products that are already in the decarboxylation stage such as pre-rolls, cartridges and THC infused edibles.
They both have their uses but it really depends on what you want. If you are not interested in getting high, then THCA might be for you. If you are interested in the classic effects of the plant, THC is the right substance for you.
How to Choose Between THCA and THC Products
Walking into a dispensary can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with so many product options. But knowing the difference between THCA and THC can simplify the process. Here’s how to decide:
1. Check Your Goals
Think about what you want from your cannabis experience. Are you looking for something mild and non-intoxicating, or do you want the classic cannabis “high”? This will guide your decision.
2. Read the Labels
Lab-tested products will clearly state their THCA and THC content. Fresh flowers, for example, might list both percentages, indicating how much THC you’ll get after heating. For edibles or oils, THC is often the only cannabinoid measured since the product has already been decarboxylated.
3. Consider Your Method of Consumption
If you prefer raw consumption, THCA is your best bet. For those who enjoy smoking or vaping, THC is the natural result of heating the product.
4. Know the Law
In the U.S., cannabis laws vary by state. Some areas allow both THC and THCA products, while others might restrict one or the other. Always check your local regulations before purchasing.
THCA vs. THC: The Science Behind the Buzz
It is now high time to discuss chemistry. THC and THCA are quite similar in their essence – the two molecules are very alike. The major difference is that there is that extra carboxyl group which is bonded to the THCA molecule. This group is liberated as carbon dioxide while heating and the remaining is THC.
This structural transformation is not limited to altering the relation between the compound and the human body; it completely alters the character of the compound. THCA will not act on the brain’s CB1 receptors the same way THC will, which is why it does not cause an individual to become ‘high’.
Surprisingly, both THCA and THC can bind to the receptors of the body’s endocannabinoid system but in a quite distinct manner. To some extent, researchers are still discovering the whole picture, so let’s wait for more research in the future.
It is not only important but also useful to know how THCA and THC differ from one another. Whether you want to buy cannabis products or simply want to learn how it is produced, this knowledge will benefit you in a way. If you are interested in learning about the finest quality THCA and THC products, visit Mama Kana store!