Can You Get High From THCA? Understanding the Difference Between THCA and THC
Cannabis has evolved from being a simple recreational plant to an essential part of wellness routines for many people. With the rise of new cannabinoids, including THCA, there’s been a lot of interest surrounding their effects on the body. One question that comes up often is, “Can you get high from THCA?”
In this blog, we’ll explain what THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is, how it differs from THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), and whether or not you can experience a high from it. If you’ve been curious about this cannabinoid, you’re in the right place.
What is THCA?
THCA is a naturally occurring compound in the cannabis plant. It is the precursor to THC, the compound that is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. When cannabis is in its raw, unheated form, it contains primarily THCA.
Unlike THC, THCA does not cause the “high” associated with cannabis consumption. It is only when THCA undergoes a chemical transformation, triggered by heat, that it becomes THC, which has the ability to alter your perception and cause euphoria.
What is the Difference Between THCA and THC?
The primary difference between THCA and THC lies in their chemical structure. Both are cannabinoids, but THCA is an acidic compound with an extra carboxyl group (COOH), which prevents it from being psychoactive.
When cannabis is heated, such as during smoking, vaping, or cooking, a process known as decarboxylation occurs. This process removes the carboxyl group from THCA, converting it into THC. This change is what makes cannabis “active,” allowing it to produce the high that users associate with marijuana.
Can You Get High From THCA?
No, you cannot get high from THCA in its raw form. THCA, as mentioned, is not psychoactive. If you consume raw cannabis that contains THCA, you won’t feel intoxicated or euphoric, because the chemical structure of THCA does not interact with the brain the same way THC does.
So, if you were to eat raw cannabis or drink a juice made from fresh cannabis leaves, you would not experience the high that typically comes with THC consumption. THCA is more focused on its potential therapeutic benefits rather than its intoxicating effects.
Why Doesn’t THCA Get You High?
The reason THCA is not psychoactive is due to its chemical structure. The carboxyl group in THCA needs to be removed through decarboxylation (heating) to transform the compound into THC. Without this process, THCA remains in its inactive state and does not bind to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, which is necessary for producing the high that THC induces.
Can THCA Get You High If Heated?
Yes, if THCA is heated, it undergoes decarboxylation and turns into THC. This is the process responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. For example, when you smoke, vape, or cook cannabis, the heat causes THCA to convert into THC, which then binds to receptors in the brain, resulting in the high.
What Happens When You Consume THCA?
When you consume THCA in its raw form, you will not feel the effects of a typical cannabis high. Instead, you may experience the potential therapeutic benefits of THCA, such as:
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Neuroprotective properties
- Anti-nausea and anti-anxiety benefits
- Antioxidant effects
These potential health benefits make THCA appealing to those who seek the wellness advantages of cannabis without the intoxication associated with THC.
How Do People Consume THCA?
Since THCA is not psychoactive, it can be consumed in a variety of ways without the risk of getting high. Here are a few common methods of consuming THCA:
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Raw Cannabis: One of the most straightforward ways to consume THCA is by eating raw cannabis leaves or flowers. Some people make cannabis smoothies or juices to get their daily dose of THCA. This method allows you to enjoy the compound’s potential benefits without experiencing any psychoactive effects.
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THCA Tinctures: THCA tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts that can be consumed sublingually (under the tongue) for fast absorption. This method allows consumers to take advantage of the health benefits of THCA without the high.
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THCA Edibles: Some companies create THCA-infused edibles like gummies, capsules, or snacks. These products offer a simple way to incorporate THCA into your wellness routine.
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Topicals: THCA can also be found in topical creams and lotions, which are applied directly to the skin. These products are often used for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relief benefits.
What Are the Benefits of THCA?
Even though THCA doesn’t cause a high, it still offers a variety of health benefits that are appealing to those looking for cannabis without the psychoactive effects. Here are some of the potential benefits of THCA:
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Anti-Inflammatory: THCA is thought to have powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body. This could be beneficial for those suffering from conditions like arthritis, chronic pain, or autoimmune diseases.
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Neuroprotective Properties: There is evidence suggesting that THCA may have neuroprotective effects, potentially offering protection against diseases like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.
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Anti-Nausea and Anti-Anxiety: Some research suggests that THCA can help reduce nausea and may have anti-anxiety effects, making it potentially useful for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or dealing with anxiety disorders.
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Antioxidant Properties: THCA is rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This could contribute to overall health and well-being.
Is THCA Legal?
The legality of THCA varies by location, and it largely depends on whether the cannabis from which it is derived is classified as hemp or marijuana. In the United States, hemp-derived cannabinoids, including THCA, are legal under the 2022 Farm Bill, as long as they contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. However, the legal status of THCA may differ from state to state, so it’s important to check local regulations.
Conclusion: Can You Get High From THCA?
In conclusion, you cannot get high from THCA in its raw form. THCA is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant, and it does not produce the typical high associated with THC. However, when THCA is heated and undergoes decarboxylation, it is converted into THC, which is psychoactive.
While THCA may not get you high, it offers a range of potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, making it a popular choice for those seeking wellness benefits from cannabis without the intoxicating effects.
So, whether you’re looking for the therapeutic advantages of cannabis or you want to enjoy the full psychoactive effects, understanding the differences between THCA and THC can help you make more informed choices about how to use cannabis.
