THCA vs THC: What Are The Benefits And Side Effects?

In the world of cannabinoids, THCA and THC are the most famous and essential compounds. Generally, these two are considered identical, but only experts know they are not similar.

THCA is a compound with potential health benefits and non-intoxicating characteristics, while THC is well known for its potential psychoactive effects that makes you feel high. A common question about these two compounds is: How Is THCA Different From THC? To know about the difference between these two compounds you have to read the below article. In this article, we have mentioned the difference, effects, benefits and other factors.

Before learning the difference, first let's get to know What THCA is?

THCA: What Is It?

THCA, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid is a compound extracted from the raw cannabis plant with non-psychoactive characteristics. This compound does not react to the body unless it is heated. Unlike THC, euphoric effects are not released by THCA, which is marijuana derived.

The first difference between THC and THCA is the difference in their chemical structure and properties. THCA molecules have a carboxylic acid group which affects the molecule binding with the receptors. After the decarboxylation process, THCA becomes the precursor to THC. This process includes the heating of the cannabis buds, which effectively breaks the carboxylic acid group to make THC.

How does THCA interact with the human body?

THCA interacts with the endocannabinoid system of the body. The endocannabinoid system is a vast network of various receptors, enzymes and endocannabinoid cannabinoids naturally generated by the body. This network controls physiological functions such as pain, inflammation, hunger, and mood.

As we know, THCA is not a psychoactive compound when it is in its raw form and does not directly interact with the endocannabinoid system. This compound needs to convert to THC to bind with the CB1 and CB2 receptors. According to research, it is found that compounds with a large composition of THCA have other health benefits.

Potential benefits & effects of THCA

As said, the compounds with a large amount of composition of THCA have other potential health benefits and effects. Let's see what they are.

Potential neuroprotective effects: It has been reported that THCA has neuroprotective properties that help the brain from getting damaged by illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and traumatic brain injury.

Potential Anti-inflammatory properties: THCA has been reported to have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it effective in the treatment of Crohn’s disease, arthritis and other health issues.

Works as Insulin: According to research from 2020, it is observed that THCA has some potential properties that help in obesity problems like fatty liver and diabetes by acting as an insulin.

Appetite stimulant: THCA also acts as an appetite stimulant that is beneficial for patients with less appetite due to illnesses like cancer or HIV/AIDS.

This product also has short-term side effects with potential benefits:

• It provides Euphoria and a relaxing feeling.

• Altered perception

• Impaired memory and cognition

• Dry mouth and increasing thirst

• Red eyes

• Increase in heart rate

• Anxiety and paranoia

How is THCA Converted into THC?

A process called decarboxylation helps in the conversion of THCA into THC by heating the cannabis plant. At the time of harvesting, the cannabis plant contains high levels of THCA but no THC. After the heating process of the cannabis plant by smoking, baking or vaping, the THCA molecule breaks down and releases carboxyl groups and converts into THC. This whole process makes the psychoactive effects of the compounds work.

The process of Decarboxylation can also occur naturally by the ageing of the cannabis plant when exposed to sunlight for a longer time. This is the reason why the older cannabis plant has higher levels of THC.

THCA vs THC

THCA and THC are the same compounds, but they can have some points that make them different from each other in effects, interactions and other factors. Below is a table that shows the difference between these two compounds.

How to Read a Cannabis Label?

Cannabinoid products are widely increasing in the market in various forms, but the customers must understand the label of the cannabis. To read the cannabis label, there are various vital details one can look for, which include the type of CBD oil, third-party verification, manufacturing date, serving size and other additional ingredients.

The type of CBD oil used can be full, broad-spectrum or isolate CBD. At the same time, the third-party verification makes sure that the product should have an accurate amount of CBD. The label also shows the derivation of CBD, whether it is marijuana or hemp-derived. The products derived from marijuana contain higher levels of THC, due to which it can be illegal in many states. The serving size of the CBD depicts how much CBD should be considered in one serving. Lastly, the manufacturing date shows the production and expiration date.

Spotlight on THCA: What to Choose?

It is essential to choose the top quality products of THCA edibles, considering the benefits and availability in the market. Let's see some of the best offerings:

THC-A 3-in-1 Disposable 4 Grams (4000 mg)

This is one of the most potent disposals that delivers two strains in just one pen. It contains 4000 mg of pure THCA with two blends: Blackberry Chill (Indica) & Pineapple Express (Sativa). It also contains hemp-derived terpenes and live resin to give a great experience.

Liquid Badder 70% THC-A Disposable 2 Grams (2000mg)

This new disposable arsenal is 70% Liquid Badder THC-A 2G Disposable. It contains 70% pure live resin with THCA. This is a solid disposable, so it is recommended to start with small puffs.

2 Gram Blunt (650 mg THC-A)

This is a premium product with a unique and robust experience. It contains 650 mg of pure THCA, which has therapeutic advantages when heated. This blunt delivers a smooth and slow burn, which gives a rich and flavorful smoke to give you a perfect experience.

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