What Does THCA Stand For?

THC and CBD are the most popular cannabinoids in weed. But as more states are legalizing the recreational use of THC and now that hemp-derived cannabinoids are now legal at a federal level, more cannabinoid discoveries are coming to light – one of which is THCA.

In this article, you will learn about THCA, what it stands for, its benefits, and a lot more.

Key Takeaways

THCA stands for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid.
THCA is the inactive form or precursor of THC. Unlike THC, THCA is a non-psychoactive compound found abundantly in raw or young cannabis plants.
THCA naturally becomes THC as cannabis plants mature. Burning THCA and exposing it to heat can also convert it into THC, which can now get users high.
Although more research is needed to prove its effects, anecdotal evidence suggests that THCA has many therapeutic benefits.

What Does THCA Mean In Weed?

THCA stands for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, which is the precursor of THC, meaning THCA is THC waiting to become active. In this form, THCA is non-psychoactive when ingested because of its additional molecular carboxyl ring, which prevents it from binding to the CB1 receptors in our endocannabinoid system.

What Are The Effects Of THCA?

Although THCA doesn’t have any psychoactive effects like its active form, Delta-9 THC from hemp or cannabis, anecdotal evidence suggests that THCA may have several health benefits connected to it.

When you consume THCA by burning THCA flowers or by dabbing or vaping THCA concentrates, the THCA will convert into THC. Now that it is active and the excessive heat eliminates the carboxyl group in THCA, it can now have the same effects as cannabis and hemp-derived Delta-9 THC – which are euphoric, relaxing, and intoxicating.

What Is THCA Good For?

Consuming THCA can be good for several things. If you want to get high, relax, or feel mind-altering effects, smoking THCA is an excellent choice since the heat can convert THCA into THC to experience these mind-altering effects.

THCA is also excellent for cooking edibles. You can use trimmings, leaves, stems, and all the other plant parts you wouldn’t normally smoke and create recipes infused with THCA – which will convert into THC when cooked.

Although a lot more research is needed, anecdotal evidence suggests that THCA has many benefits, making it good for mind and body relaxation and mild pain relief.

However, we must remind you that users report that THCA helps with these symptoms, but they are not a substitute for your medication. We advise anyone who is experiencing these illnesses to speak to their doctor and ask how THCA can help.

Is THCA The Same As Delta-9?

THCA is a different cannabinoid than Delta-9. However, THCA is basically THC but in its infancy stage or inactive form. Eventually, when THCA goes through the decarboxylation process, it will turn into Delta-9 THC.

So whenever you dose THC products, such as Delta-9 Gummies or vapes – the THC in those gummies used to be THCA.

The potential side effects of THCA are also similar to Delta-9. If you take too much THCA or have taken THCA products with a high percentage, you may experience side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, rapid heartbeat, red eyes, fatigue, anxiety, and paranoia.

As a rule of thumb, THCA percentages that go over 20% are considered high and not recommended for beginners.

Is THCA A Natural Cannabinoid?

THCA is a natural cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp plants. In the early stages of a plant before its harvesting stage, these plants are abundant in THCA, meaning you can extract a lot of THCA and create products such as THCA gummies, diamonds, vapes, and a lot more.

As the plant grows and when you dry and cure these plants, the THCA will slowly turn into THC, making the plants and flowers psychoactive and ready for you to use.

Final Thoughts

THCA is the acidic precursor to THC and stands for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid. Although many people do not see the importance of THCA because it will eventually turn into THC when burned, it still might be essential to know the chemical process and percentages of THCA so you can avoid the side effects of consuming too much of it, especially when buying Delta-9 THC products in the market.

Where To Buy THCA Products And Other Cannabinoids Online

If you are looking to get high and enjoy a relaxing day or evening after a tiring day, week, month, or even a year of stress – Melee Dose will be there for you! With a wide range of products, strains, and cannabinoids to choose from, you can relax and enjoy without worry!

If you’re interested in THCA, we have a new line of diamond infused THCA pre rolls! These half-gram pre rolls are ideal for those that enjoy the classic feeling of smoking a joint but with the added potency and flavor of THCA diamonds.