What is the Difference Between THC and THCA?
Although THC and THCA have been compared before, THCA is actually considered to be the predecessor to THC. It’s easy to get the two confused which is why it’s important to recognize that THC and THCA produce very different effects. THC is the part of the cannabis plant that actually gets you high and THCA is an inactive compound found in the trichomes of the live cannabis plant.
Why THC Gets You High and THCA Does Not
THCA is a larger molecule that does not fit into certain cannabinoid receptors which are found in the brain, central nervous system, lungs, liver, and kidneys. In order to get the intoxicating effect, a cannabinoid must fit into a cannabinoid receptor.
THC is the most researched cannabinoid out of the hundreds that are found in the cannabis plant. This is because it is one of the cannabinoids that contribute to the euphoric high that is unique to the cannabis plant.
How Does THCA Become THC?
Heat and light remove the carboxylic acid group from THCA which alters the chemical structure making it the perfect shape to fit into those cannabinoid receptors mentioned earlier. Although THCA doesn’t have intoxicating effects some consider it to be a superfood when it’s in its freshest and most raw form.
Much like avocados, kale, and other superfoods, raw cannabis (before heat and light are applied) has potential to ease arthritis, chronic pain, and other ailments. So, although THCA does not put you into the same euphoric state as THC it still has its benefits and should not be underestimated.
Visit Strains Dispensary For All of Your Cannabis Needs
Whether you are looking to try flower, edibles, vapes, topicals, or any accessories we’ve got you covered with high quality products and information at Strains Dispensary.
Our staff of budtenders proudly serve the Perris, Moreno Valley, Riverside, Hemet, and Temecula areas, and can answer any questions you may have.
Feel free to contact us today or visit our location in SoCal for more information about our products. Be sure to check out our FAQs and brush up on California Cannabis Laws before your next visit.
STIIIZY Cultivation Process
Grown indoors, our cultivators grow potent, high yielding cannabis suitable for flower consumption or high yield oils. STIIIZY cultivates, hand-selects and names all of our own strains in house.
Grown indoors, our cultivators grow potent, high yielding cannabis suitable for flower consumption or high yield oils. STIIIZY cultivates, hand-selects and names all of our own strains in house.