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THCA vs. THC – THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinol Acid) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are two of the natural compounds of cannabis originating from Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). 

Cannabis contains major cannabinoids, shortly termed THCA which converges to THC after reaction with heat. Now let’s take a look at bref of THCA vs THC

THCA

THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is a cannabinoid which naturally is present in the cannabis plant, it is the acidic “precursor” to THC and exists primarily in young, freshly harvested cultivars. 

Tetrahydrocannabinol is normally found more in fresh cannabis plants, especially in raw cannabis buds, compared to dried plants. The cannabinoid is known for its natural heating effect, it also changes into another type of cannabinoid called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or delta-9 THC.

Read: What is THCA? (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid)

THCA, the non-psychoactive compound, is less common but available in raw cannabis products. Its availability largely depends on local laws, which vary widely between states regarding cannabis products.

THCA health benefits include anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anti-nausea effects. THCA also helps to manage conditions like arthritis, chronic pain, and neurodegenerative diseases. It enhances overall cellular health and reduces muscle spasms.

THC

THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is a compound of cannabis plant, THC is a type of cannabinoid that causes high. Tetrahydrocannabinol is formed after the THCA is heated or decarboxylated.

Tetrahydrocannabinol is found in the flowers, buds and leaves of the cannabis plant. THC is found at a high rate in a substance called hashish which is found in the raw plant. 

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is more commonly available than THCA due to its psychoactive effects and widespread use in recreational and medical cannabis. Tetrahydrocannabinol is legal in many states where cannabis is permitted for adult or medical use. 

THC offers potential benefits such as pain relief, reduced inflammation, and muscle relaxation. It may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, nausea, and insomnia, while boosting appetite in patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy. However, its use should be monitored for potential side effects.

THCA vs THC

Although these cannabinoids emerge from a single plant, the effects of THC and THCA differ significantly due to their chemical structures. The main difference between THCA and THC comes from their psychotropic effect. THC is psychoactive, while raw THCA is not. Heat plays a crucial role as it is the main energy that converts THCA into THC, unlocking its psychoactive potential.

THCA and THC functions in the endocannabinoid system of the human body, a biological system which affects the mood, sleep, appetite and immunity of a person.

Chemical Structure And Properties

There is a huge difference in the chemical structures of these two compounds. THCA chemical structure includes a carboxyl group (-COOH) attached to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), that makes it an acidic precursor to THC. THCA has the molecular formula C22H30O4 and a molar mass of 358.48 g/mol. 

Also Consider: Is THCA legal?

While, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) chemical structure includes a 21-carbon atom framework: C₂₁H₃₀O₂. THC features a tricyclic structure, comprising a benzopyran ring fused with a cyclohexene ring and a pentyl side chain. 

It is a lipophilic (fat-soluble) molecule, contributing to its slow metabolism and long-lasting effects. THC interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, primarily binding to CB1 receptors in the brain, producing euphoric and psychoactive effects.

Legal Status and Implications

In the USA, the legality of these compounds vary from state to state, THCA is legal until it contains a limited amount of THC. Its legality is based under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is considered legal according to federal law as long as it contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.

Pure THC is considered as Schedule I substance by the federal Controlled Substances Act which means that it’s illegal to produce, distribute, or possess THC, except in cases where it’s used for approved medical or research purposes.

In conclusion, THCa is legal and available in all cannabis legalized states due to its medical value and also its products having the THC limits are totally available. Whereas, THC is legal in only states where cannabis is recreationally legal with certain limits and is completely illegal under federal law.

How to consume?

THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) can be consumed in several ways, typically in its raw form since it does not produce psychoactive effects until it’s heated and converted to THC.

Some ways of consuming THCA are:

1. By juicing raw cannabis leaves and flowers, which preserves THCA’s properties.
2. By adding raw cannabis to smoothies or salads.
3. By taking THCA tinctures or capsules for a controlled dosage.
4. By edibles such as THCA gummies, capsules, or chocolates made using raw cannabis extracts.

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) being the psychoactive form of THCA that can be consumed by smoking or vaping cannabis flower is a traditional method, offering quick effects. 

More: What are THCA Diamonds?

Through edibles, such as gummies or baked goods, provide a delayed but longer-lasting experience. Oils and tinctures can be taken sublingually, allowing THC to enter the bloodstream faster than edibles. 

Topicals, including creams and balms, are applied to the skin for localized relief without psychoactive effects. THC is also consumed in the form of concentrates.

Which Is Better between THC and THCA?

THCA and THC both the cannabinoids carry up various benefits, the consumers consume these compounds according to their taste over psychoactive ness and health accommodations. 

THCa does not provide the psychoactive effects but carry more advantages to health and less side effects. Whereas, THC is psychoactive and carries more side effects beside holding health benefits too.

THC is more likely taken by the consumers because the psychoactive compound is in high demand for both recreational and medical use. It is the main compound responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis. 

THCA, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and primarily found in raw cannabis. While THCA has potential therapeutic benefits, it is far less popular and less commonly sold than THC.