THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) has been identified as the non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in raw and live cannabis. The consumption of cannabis juice has been regarded as the most common method for taking advantage of THCA’s potential benefits. Within the cannabis plant, hundreds of cannabinoid acids are found, which are later converted into cannabinoids through a process called decarboxylation. CBD and THCA have been spotlighted as superfoods due to their potential to provide various health benefits.
While intoxicating effects are not produced by cannabinoid acids, antimicrobial and insecticidal properties have been observed. THCA and CBDA are present in abundance in raw cannabis and are converted to THC and CBD, respectively, through heating. Just like other cannabinoids, THCA is believed to interact with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) to regulate essential bodily functions, including homeostasis.
The cannabinoids produced naturally by the ECS are responsible for regulating inflammation and pain, allowing the body to repair itself. When a deficiency in these endocannabinoids occurs, disruptions in bodily processes have been noted. In such cases, benefits may be derived from phytocannabinoids—cannabinoids found in plants.
What Is The Difference Between THC and THCA?
The conversion of THCA to THC has been known to occur gradually through exposure to heat and light in a process called decarboxylation. However, during the harvesting process, only a portion of THCA is typically converted into THC. When cannabis is smoked or vaporized, THC is produced, which has been associated with the euphoric “high” commonly linked to cannabis.
Although THCA serves as the chemical precursor to THC, a psychoactive effect is not produced by THCA. The reason lies in the difference in chemical composition—THCA contains a carboxyl group, which is lost during decarboxylation. As a result, the molecule becomes small enough to bind to CB1 receptors in the brain, unlike THCA, which remains too large and is unable to fit into these receptors.
THCA Benefits and Side Effects
Promising results have been demonstrated through research into THCA as a nutritional supplement and dietary enhancer. The following benefits have been attributed to THCA:
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Enzymes responsible for producing pain-inducing prostaglandins have been inhibited by THCA. This includes inflammation caused by conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
- Neuroprotective effects: Neuroprotective properties have been observed in a 2017 study, where THCA was shown to help with neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Multiple Sclerosis, and Huntington’s Disease by reducing nerve cell degeneration.
- Anti-emetic properties: The reduction of nausea and vomiting has been reported through the use of THCA. In cases of chemotherapy-induced nausea, THCA has been suggested as potentially more effective than THC.
- Anti-proliferative activity: The growth of cancerous cells, particularly in prostate cancer, has been inhibited by THCA in early research, although further studies are ongoing.
- Appetite stimulation: Appetite in individuals suffering from cachexia and anorexia nervosa has been shown to improve. Additionally, THCA has been observed to reduce fat accumulation and prevent metabolic diseases in diet-induced obesity models.
- Other possible benefits: Muscle spasms, seizures, insomnia, and inflammation may be alleviated when THCA is used, especially when combined with CBD.
THCA Side Effects
Minimal side effects have been linked with THCA intake. Although a partial conversion of THCA to THC might occur within the digestive system, the resultant quantity is often considered too low to trigger psychoactive effects.
Despite the generally favorable safety profile, a physician should be consulted before use, particularly in the presence of pre-existing conditions or concurrent medications. The use of THCA is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women and young children, as clinical trials involving these groups remain limited.
It should also be noted that a positive drug test may result from THCA use. Individuals who are subject to testing—such as athletes or drivers—are advised to avoid THCA-containing products due to legal and regulatory ambiguity.
How THCA Can Be Taken
THCA is primarily found in raw cannabis, and its accessibility depends on local laws. It is advised that legal regulations be reviewed before any purchases are made.
Various forms of THCA products have been made available, including tinctures, oils, powders, edibles, and transdermal patches. THCA tinctures are considered one of the safest formats and are typically produced by blending THCA extract with a carrier oil like coconut oil.
Highly purified THCA extracts, known as THCA crystalline, THCA diamonds, or crystals, are also available. These concentrates are visually recognized by their sugar-like texture or clear, crystalline appearance.
While the consumption of freshly harvested cannabis has been considered the most natural method, its earthy flavor may not appeal to everyone. Nonetheless, raw cannabis can be blended into smoothies or juices or even used in salads.
It must be remembered that smoking or vaping cannabis leads to the degradation of THCA. The decarboxylation process is activated by heat, and depending on the temperature, THCA is transformed into THC. At 212°F, this conversion takes three hours; at 320°F, ten minutes are required; and at 392°F, decarboxylation occurs within seconds.
Although research on THCA’s full potential and side effects is still ongoing, initial studies suggest encouraging outcomes. Long-standing legal restrictions have limited research in areas such as dosage, safety, and effectiveness. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that reputable manufacturers be selected and healthcare providers be consulted before using any THCA products.