Does THC-A Have Potential Benefits and Side Effects?

Does THC-A Have Potential Benefits and Side Effects
May 2, 2023 | Elyxr's Blog

THC-A is everywhere right now, and for good reason.  This raw precursor to delta 9 THC, found naturally in cannabis, offers something of a legal workaround to enjoying delta 9 without breaking any laws.  THC-A is largely found in inhalable products, because these products provide us with delta 9 through the process known as decarboxylation – in other words, heating THC-A to the required temperature for it to convert into delta 9 THC, complete with its bliss-inducing high.

With THC-A vapes, gummies, and dabs hitting the market right now, let’s talk about another aspect aside from the high we associate with THC, which is its benefits that may affect how we feel, both physically and mentally, for the better.  While we’re at it, we want to dive into any potential side effects as well, so you know what to be prepared for when you begin taking this cannabinoid for the first time.

THC-A vs. Delta 9 THC

Before we talk about the benefits associated with THC-A, along with the side effects, we want to just reiterate that the THC-A products at Elyxr are actually giving you delta 9 THC, and not THC-A.  Once THC-A surpasses a specific threshold temperature, as is what happens when we smoke or vaporize the cannabinoid, it turns into delta 9 THC, leaving behind no THC-A.  This means that the products at Elyxr that contain THC-A are giving you, in fact, the benefits and side effects associated with delta 9 rather than THC-A itself.

What are the Benefits of THC-A Products at Elyxr?

Considering again that Elyxr’s THC-A products offer delta 9, we’re happy to say that we have a pretty good idea of what delta 9’s potential benefits are.  The cannabinoid was discovered back in the 1940s, and since then, has undergone a lot of clinical research to tell us what kinds of benefits it has to offer.  Let’s go over those key benefits now.

A Satisfying High

Of course, a huge part of delta 9’s appeal is its high, which might as well be considered a benefit in and of itself.  The intoxicating qualities of delta 9 can make us feel more creative, less anxious, happier, and more introspective.  Being high on delta 9 can give us a much-needed break from our day-to-day stresses and worries so we can be more present and enjoy a well-deserved mood boost.

Improved Appetite

The munchies” are synonymous with cannabis, largely because of the appetite-enhancing effects of delta 9 THC that are well-known.  Now, the fact that delta 9 makes us want to snack isn’t groundbreaking.  But, in a clinical context, it can be life-changing for patients who are unable to maintain a healthy appetite due to certain health conditions.  Studies have shown that patients with cancer-related anorexia were able to maintain a healthier appetite through the use of delta 9 THC.

Reduced Nausea

All of us get nauseous from time to time, but chronic nausea can be a crippling condition, potentially aggravated by certain health conditions or medications.  THC has long been known for its positive effects on nausea, acting as a natural antiemetic to eliminate the sensation by its regulation of serotonin in the brain.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Many, many people use delta 9 THC (and cannabis in general) for its anti-inflammatory effects.  The cannabinoid actually plays a role in regulating inflammatory processes throughout the body to bring down inflammation that can cause physical discomfort, as well as inflammation that affects our physiological wellbeing – such as inflammatory disorders that can present in the form of anything from eczema to irritable bowel syndrome.  Many cannabinoids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, through their interaction with cannabinoid receptors in the immune system that are responsible for inflammation.

Analgesic Effects

Speaking of physical discomfort, delta 9 is also widely used for its analgesic properties, influencing the way in which the nervous system reacts to pain.  Analgesics aim to block pain receptors from sending pain signals to the brain, and generally increase our pain tolerance.  Cannabis is widely prescribed throughout the country to those with chronic pain conditions specifically because of these clinical findings over the years that show a lot of promise in its efficacy.

Positive Effects on Mood and Sleep

Delta 9 is known for its mood-regulating effects, and it’s been suggested that the cannabinoid may act as an antidepressant by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain that are responsible for our day-to-day mood.  Of course, many people use delta 9 to get some stress relief as well.  The potentially calming effects on the nervous system that are associated with the cannabinoid explain why so many people turn to delta 9 when it’s time to go to bed.

Neurological Regulation

Lastly, a lot of research is going into the relationship between THC and neurological function.  THC’s potential neuroprotective properties make it a possible candidate for addressing neurological conditions like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis, through the stimulation of neurogenesis and the protection of neural pathways in the brain.

Does THC-A Have Side Effects?

The good news is that the side effects associated with THC-A (delta 9 THC, in all actuality) are no different from other cannabinoids.  THC-A/delta 9 are nontoxic, and not associated with major harmful effects.  At worst, you may experience:

  • Dry eyes/bloodshot eyes
  • Cottonmouth
  • Anxiety/paranoia (if you consume too much)
  • Lightheadedness/dizziness
  • Brain fog/grogginess
  • Fatigue/drowsiness
  • Forgetfulness/confusion
  • Poor coordination
  • Increased appetite

Of course, these side effects are temporary and not reason for medical concern.  They should last no longer than the duration of the high, and are more likely to occur if you consume a high amount of the product, or have a low tolerance due to being a beginner.

THC-A: The Pros Certainly Outweigh Any Cons

The bottom line is that the THC-A products at Elyxr actually allow you to enjoy the multitude of potential benefits associated with delta 9 THC, so that you can enjoy what years of research has taught us about the cannabinoid’s effects on our health.  Of course, it also means that you are at risk of mild, temporary side effects, but again, they aren’t actually concerning from a medical standpoint, so the pros outweigh the cons.

If you’re curious about what kinds of benefits you might derive from Elyxr’s THC-A vapes, pre-rolls, and dabs, we encourage you to explore these formulas for yourself and see how they affect you.  You never know how THC-A (delta 9) can improve the way you feel each day, as each person is unique.  Choose a product you like and pick a strain, and explore for yourself.