What is THCa and Why Does It Matter?

What is THCa and Why Does It Matter?

Posted by Delta Extrax on 1st Dec 2023

The THCa Cannabinoid is nothing new; it’s one of the most commonly used cannabinoids that makes THC. However, what’s not typical is using THCa to get high. Here is a breakdown of THCa and why you should try it.

What THCa Is

THCa, or Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid, is a naturally occurring compound in the hemp plant. Also, it is the most abundant cannabinoid, but here’s the kicker, it doesn’t get you high.

THCa is the acidic form of THC found in the trichomes of living hemp plants. Trichomes are tiny, hair-like structures located on the plant’s buds where cannabinoids are most abundant, including THCa.

Non-Psychoactive

THCa is distinct from THC in that it is non-psychoactive. In its natural form, THCa does not produce the euphoric effects that THC does. Instead, it has other benefits.

Decarboxylation

Decarboxylation is a process that occurs when THCa is exposed to heat, causing it to turn into THC. This process involves removing a carboxylic acid group from the THCa molecule, which alters the compound’s chemical structure.

Although decarboxylation can occur naturally through exposure to sunlight or heat, when THCa is vaped, the heat causes decarboxylation, producing that high feeling.

What kind of High is THCa?

What kind of High is THCA?
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In its raw natural form, THCa is not psychoactive. It does not produce the euphoric effects you usually get from straight THC. However, after decarboxylation, THCa is converted into THC, making you high.

The results of THCA can differ depending on the individual and the dose.
Some people experience euphoria, relaxation, and happiness, while some can have a bad trip if they take too much.

Different Strains

The great news about THCA is that it’s available in different strains. What happens is terpenes are added to give it a better taste + experience.

Sativa THCa

You can find your favorite Sativa strains available in THCa. What makes THCa great in Sativa is that it subtly hits you. If you’re looking to get pumped up and ready to take on the day, Sativa THCa strains are a vibe.

As the THCa begins to decarboxylate, the aromas and flavors from the Terps enter your body. It then creates an entourage effect like no other. Some like it because it’s strong, but others prefer mellow strains.

Indica THCa

If you’re one of those people who prefer to mellow out, then Indica THCa might be perfect for you. Although THCa is potent, the mellowness of the Indica Terps balances it out.

What people love about Indica THCa is that couchlock feeling; it’s the perfect strain for those lazy days when you’re bumming it around the house. However, a happy balance exists between Indica and Sativa, known as Hybrid strains.

Hybrid THCa

The most preferred strains are Hybrids because you can enjoy them anytime. Although most users like to feel one way over the other, most Hybrid strains tend to be more dominant than the other.

While THCa Hybrid strains are ideal for someone looking for balance, you’ll have to see how your body reacts to it. The most common feeling reported is a mellow head high, which can vary.

THCa Products

THCA Products