THCA vs. THC

THCA and THC are both cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, but their effects couldn't be more different. While THC is best known for its psychoactive effects that induce the feeling of being "high," THCA remains inactive in its raw state. But what does that mean exactly, and why should consumers care about THCA ?

Chemical Differences: THCA and THC

Chemically, THCA and THC are closely related, but there is one key difference: THCA contains an extra carboxyl group. This carboxyl group prevents THCA from being psychoactive by blocking interaction with the CB1 receptors in the brain. When THCA is heated - by smoking, vaporizing, or cooking - it loses this carboxyl group in a process known as decarboxylation and turns into THC , which then produces psychoactive effects.

THCA: The therapeutic benefits without the “high”

While THC is primarily valued for its intoxicating effects, there is increasing interest in THCA for its therapeutic properties . Numerous studies suggest that THCA can help treat inflammation, chronic pain, and neurodegenerative diseases without users having to experience the psychoactive side effects of THC .