What is THCA? 

THCA, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is a non-psychoactive compound found in raw hemp and cannabis plants. It is the precursor to THC, the well-known psychoactive compound that produces a high. THCA converts to THC when exposed to heat through a process called decarboxylation, but produces no psychoactive effects when ingested. In other words, exposing THCA to heat will deliver similar and less potent psychoactive effects as any other cannabis strain.

THCA is found in abundance in raw cannabis plants, with levels varying depending on the strain and growing conditions. The compound has gained attention recently due to its potential therapeutic benefits, which we’ll dive into next.

What Are The Potential Health Benefits of THCA? 

While research on THCA is still in its early stages, some studies suggest that it may offer various potential health benefits. A study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that THCA may have beneficial healing properties. This suggests that THCA could be useful in managing conditions characterized by aches and pain, such as arthritis or bowel disease.

Another study found in the NIH indicated that THCA might have neuroprotective effects. The researchers found that THCA could protect brain cells from oxidative stress, which is involved in developing neurodegenerative diseases. 

Additionally, some evidence suggests that THCA may have antiemetic properties, meaning it could help reduce nausea and vomiting. This could be particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or those with conditions that cause chronic nausea.

Despite the potential benefits, it's essential to note that more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of THCA. While these initial studies are promising, further clinical trials are necessary to establish the efficacy and safety of THCA for various health conditions.

• Could be useful in managing conditions characterized by aches and pain.
• Researchers found that THCA could protect brain cells from oxidative stress, which is involved in developing neurodegenerative diseases. 
• THCA may have antiemetic properties, meaning it could help reduce nausea and vomiting

Forms of THCA 

THCA is available in several forms, each with unique characteristics and uses. Popular forms include 

• THCA flower
• THCA vapes
• Gummies and other Edibles
• Tinctures and Concentrates

THCA Flower 

THCA flower is the raw, unheated form of hemp or cannabis buds. These flowers are rich in THCA and can be used to make various products, such as tinctures and topicals. One of the main advantages of THCA flower is that it allows you to experience the potential benefits of THCA without the overpowering psychoactive effects of THC. 

When consuming THCA flower, it's important to remember that exposing the flower to heat and fire will convert the THCA to THC, resulting in psychoactive effects. The high from THCA is typically more mellow / less psychoactive than THC products due to the tested percentage difference of THC.

At VIIA, we offer both THCA flower and pre-rolls containing THCA diamonds to suit either preference. Or you may prefer to vape THCA, which we’ll cover next.

THCA Vapes

THCA vapes are a popular way to consume THCA. These vapes typically contain THCA concentrate, which is heated to convert the THCA to THC, producing psychoactive effects. THCA vapes offer a convenient and discreet way to experience the effects of THC, as they are easy to use discreetly. 

When using THCA vapes, it's crucial to start with a low dose and gradually increase until you achieve the desired effects. This is because the conversion of THCA to THC can be more efficient when using a vape, resulting in stronger psychoactive effects compared to other consumption methods. You may also be interested in live resin options, which stand out with their purity and potency. 

THCA Concentrates

THCA concentrates are highly potent products that offer a concentrated dose of THCA. They’re made by extracting THCA from hemp or cannabis plants using either solvent or CO2 extraction.

THCA concentrates can be used in a handful of ways, including dabbing and vaping. Dabbing involves heating the concentrate on a hot surface, while vaping uses a vape device to heat the concentrate and produce an inhalable vapor.

One of the main advantages of THCA concentrates is their high potency, which allows you to experience the potential benefits of THCA in a more concentrated form. However, this high potency also comes with strong effects, so it's essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed to avoid overconsumption.

When purchasing THCA concentrates, look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency. This will ensure that you’re getting a safe, high-quality product that contains the amount of THCA advertised. At VIIA, for example, each of our THCA products are third-party tested and posted on our website to give you the peace of mind that comes with a quality product.

THCA Gummies

THCA gummies offer a convenient and discreet method for consuming THCA. They allow for easier management of consumption, providing precise doses in each serving, which makes it simple to control your intake.

THCA gummies are also a good option for those who prefer not to inhale vapor or smoke, as they allow you to consume THCA orally. This can be particularly beneficial if you have respiratory issues or simply prefer edibles over smoking or vaping.

As with any first-time product, it's also important to start with a low dose (usually 5-10mg) and wait at least an hour before consuming more, as the effects of edibles can take longer to kick in compared to other consumption methods. 

Is THCA Legal? 

The legality of THCA is a complex issue that varies by jurisdiction. In the United States, hemp-derived THCA is legal under the 2018 Farm Bill as long as the final product contains less than 0.3% THC. This means that hemp-derived THCA products, such as THCA flower and THCA concentrates, are legal at the federal level.

However, state-by-state laws can vary. In states where cannabis is legal for medicinal or recreational use, THCA products derived from cannabis may be legal under state law, or may be prohibited entirely.

Knowing this, we suggest checking your local laws and regulations before purchasing or consuming THCA products, as the legal landscape surrounding hemp and cannabis can vary widely between state lines.

The Difference Between THC and THCA 

The main difference between THC and THCA is that THCA is non-psychoactive, while THC produces the "high" associated with cannabis use. THCA is the acidic precursor to THC and is found in raw hemp and cannabis plants. When THCA is exposed to heat, such as through smoking, vaping, or baking, it undergoes a process called decarboxylation, which converts it to THC.

This means that consuming THCA will not produce the psychoactive effects associated with THC, as the THCA has not been converted. To experience the "high" produced by THC, the THCA must be heated through methods such as smoking, vaping, or cooking.

Another difference between THC and THCA is their potential therapeutic benefits. While both compounds have been studied for their health benefits, the research on THCA is more limited compared to THC. Some studies suggest that THCA may have neuroprotective and antiemetic properties, while THC has been more extensively studied and proven to relieve pain, reduce discomfort, and stimulate appetite. Still, seeing as THCA delivers the same effects as THC when smoked or vaped, the benefits are thought to mirror each other. 

The Difference Between CBD and THCA 

CBD (cannabidiol) and THCA are both non-psychoactive compounds found in hemp and cannabis plants, but they have different properties and potential benefits.

CBD is a well-known cannabinoid that has gained traction in recent years thanks to its potential therapeutic benefits. Unlike THCA, CBD is not an acidic precursor and does not convert to THC when heated. This means that CBD products, such as oils, capsules, and edibles, shouldn’t produce psychoactive effects regardless of how they are consumed.

CBD has been studied for its potential to relieve stress and alleviate chronic pain, among other benefits. It is believed to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various physiological processes such as mood, appetite, and sleep.

THCA, on the other hand, is the acidic precursor to THC found in raw hemp and cannabis plants. While THCA doesn’t produce psychoactive effects on its own, it can convert to THC when heated, resulting in the "high" associated with cannabis use.

THCA

Psychoactive properties: THCA doesn’t produce psychoactive effects on its own; it can convert to THC when heated, resulting in the "high" associated with cannabis use.

What it feels like: THCA isn't psychoactive in its natural state because its molecular structure prevents it from binding to brain receptors that produce a high. This is true only when THCA is consumed raw, like by juicing fresh cannabis.

Legality: THCA is legal as long as the cannabis contains less than 0.3% of it. State laws can vary.

Benefits and uses: Some research done on animals shows that THCA has anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, anti-seizure effects, and neuroprotective effects.

CBD

Psychoactive properties: Non intoxicating with no ‘high’.

What it feels like: CBD does not make you high, instead it tends to provide a feeling of calm and relaxation.

Legality: Yes, CBD derived from hemp (with less than 0.3% THC) is legal in the USA at the federal level, but its legality can vary by state.

Benefits and uses: CBD is reportedly used by many for various ailments including pain relief, sleep, anxiety, and general wellness.

THCA Side Effects to Know About 

Generally, THCA is well-tolerated, and most people do not experience adverse side effects. However, some individuals may be sensitive to cannabinoids and experience mild side effects, such as dry mouth, dizziness, or changes in appetite.

If you experience any negative side effects after consuming THCA products, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional. It's also important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while under the influence of THC, as it can impact your ability to perform these tasks safely.

THCA Dosing (How Much To Take) 

The optimal dosage of THCA may vary depending on factors such as body weight, tolerance, and the desired effects. When consuming THCA products that have been heated, such as THCA vapes or THCA pre-rolls, start with a low dose (usually 2.5 - 5mg of THC) and gradually increase until you achieve the desired effects.

For non-heated THCA products, such as THCA flower or THCA gummies, a starting dose of 10-25mg per day is generally considered safe. However, it's essential to start with the lowest possible dose and increase gradually as needed to avoid overconsumption.

When using THCA concentrates, such as THCA diamonds, we suggest starting with a very low dose (as low as 1-2mg) and increasing slowly, as these products are much more potent compared to other forms of THCA.

It's also important to keep in mind that the effects of THCA can vary depending on the consumption method. Inhaled THCA, such as through vaping or smoking, will produce effects more quickly (usually within minutes) when compared to oral consumption, such as through edibles or tinctures (which can take up to an hour or more to kick in).

As with any new supplement or medication, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting to use THCA products, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Is THCA Right for You?

THCA is a fascinating compound with potential health benefits and various forms of consumption. As the hemp industry continues to evolve, we at VIIA are excited to continue to explore the possibilities of THCA and other cannabinoids. Whether you're interested in THCA flower, vapes, concentrates, or gummies, we offer a range of high-quality, third-party-tested hemp products to enhance your everyday experiences. Check them out — and remember to start with a low dose, consult with a healthcare professional, and check your local laws before consuming THCA products.

FAQs

What does THCA feel like? 

THCA does not produce strong psychoactive effects associated with THC. Most people report a sense of relaxation and overall well-being when consuming THCA products.

How does THCA turn into THC? 

THCA converts to THC through a process called decarboxylation, which occurs when THCA is exposed to heat, such as when smoking or vaping.

Does THCA show up on a drug test? 

THCA itself may not show up on a standard drug test. However, if THCA is heated and converts to THC, it can lead to a positive drug test result.

Do you need to activate THCA? 

No, THCA does not need to be activated to experience its potential benefits. Consuming raw THCA products, such as THCA flower, can provide the desired effects without the need for heat.

What is THCA flower? 

THCA flower is the raw, unheated form of hemp or cannabis buds, rich in THCA. These flowers can be used to make various products or consumed directly.

Is THCA psychoactive? 

No, THCA itself is not psychoactive. However, when THCA is heated and converts to THC, it can produce psychoactive effects.

Can you fly with THCA products? 

The ability to fly with THCA products depends on the specific laws and regulations of the countries and states you are traveling to and from. Always check local laws and guidelines before attempting to travel with THCA products.