- November 15, 2024
What is THCA vs. THC? Effects, Benefits & Why It Matters For You
When you start to learn more about cannabis, you’ll soon discover that there’s more to it than CBD and THC. There are many other compounds in this fascinating plant, which can sometimes be confusing – especially when their names are very similar. For example, what is THCA vs. THC?
Although they’re closely related, they aren’t the same thing. Being able to tell the difference will impact your experience, so we’ve put together this quick guide to help you understand the difference between THC and THCA.
What’s the Difference Between THC & THCA?
Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA, or sometimes THCa) is the starting point – think of it as the “raw” stage. This is the form that THC takes inside the cannabis plant before it’s been picked, processed, or smoked. That last step is the most important: it takes heat to detach the acid and the tetrahydrocannabinol. Until the heat arrives, THCA is not psychoactive and will not produce a “high.”
| THCA | THC |
|---|---|
| Non-intoxicating | Psychoactive |
| Exists naturally in the plant (cannabis & hemp) | Requires heat to create |
| Potentially used for anti-inflammatory effects, controlling nausea, and pain relief | Used for pain management, controlling nausea, and appetite stimulation |
| Less legally restricted | Widely legally restricted |
THCA vs. THC: Which Is Stronger?
Undoubtedly, the answer is THC. Before it undergoes the process of decarboxylation, THCA has no psychoactive effects at all. Its other effects, like anti-inflammatory and antiemetic properties, are still being studied by scientists around the world. In a lot of cases, it is simply used to get around laws that ban the psychoactive compound.
THC’s effects are well documented, but possession, consumption, and distribution are highly regulated and are not legal in many states and countries. Research into its benefits is ongoing, but this compound has been used to control nausea in cancer patients and manage chronic pain.* It might even be able to help with IBS!*
Taste, Toke, or Tincture: A Guide to Consumption
By nature, THCA is consumed raw, usually in the form of capsules, topicals, or tinctures. Some people add it to juices or smoothies for an extra health boost. It should be noted that while it does not produce the “high,” it may still show up on drug tests.
On the other hand, THC is activated by heat, so it has a wider range of consumption methods. Most famous are smoking or vaping, but it can also be added to edibles, including baked goods and gummies. The potency of different strains of cannabis can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check before buying your flower or other cannabis products.
Make the Right Choice With a Little Help From JACANA
So, now you know the ‘what’ of THCA vs. THC, which should you choose? While THCA has its appeal, given its current legal position in the United States, if you’re looking to experience the true magic of cannabis, there’s no substitute for THC. For the best experience, go for premium cannabis products from a trusted provider. All of our organic cannabis is third-party tested to ensure that you get exactly what you pay for.
Pre-order your favorite strains for collection at one of our four locations and sit back, relax, and enjoy an outstanding THC experience with JACANA.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.
