When cannabis comes to mind, most of us think of THC and the high it brings. But did you know the plant has over 60 other cannabinoids?
And now that cannabis hemp is becoming increasingly popular, two of those cannabinoids are now readily available on dispensary shelves and online stores: THCA and CBD.
If you’re considering trying either, you might be wondering what sets THCA apart from CBD and which one is right for you.
The main difference is that THCA converts into the psychoactive delta-9 THC when heated, and CBD is non-psychoactive even after heating.
If you want to get high, smoke THCA flower, dab a concentrate, or eat a gummy, but if you want to stay grounded, CBD will do.
What is THCa?
THCa, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid is the raw form of THC found in fresh cannabis plants. In this raw form, THCa is non-psychoactive. It won't send you to the moon.
The magic happens when heat enters the picture. When THCa is heated either through smoking or vaping or cooking it converts into delta-9 THC, that old familiar psychoactive compound everyone knows and loves.
This change is known as decarboxylation, and if you’ve ever made edibles, you’re probably familiar with the process of decarbing the weed first (by heating it in the oven) to activate it into THC before adding it to your recipes.
Chemical Structure of THCa
THCa has an interesting chemical structure! It looks like that of THC but with an extra molecule called the carboxyl group. This extra group makes the THCa molecule too big to fit into the CB1 receptors in your brain.
The CB1 Receptors are part of your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is responsible for regulating everything in your body, keeping mood, memory, appetite, and pain response in balance.
Effects of THCa
We’ve established that raw THCa on its own doesn’t have psychoactive properties.
But if you’re like most folks and plan on smoking, vaping, or dabbing your THCa products, you’re basically converting them into delta-9 THC on the spot. That means you can expect the same kind of effects of THC you’d get from traditional cannabis flower.
For example, lighting up a BaySmokes THCa pre-roll or taking a dab of some premium THCa diamonds might leave you feeling:
- Euphoric or mentally uplifted
- Body relaxed
- Tuned into your senses (vivid colors and music)
- Munchies
Of course, like any cannabis product, your experience will depend on things like your individual tolerance, how much you consume, and the specific strain you choose. Some strains have terpenes that will make you feel more energetic, while others will have you melting into the couch like a stick of butter.
Potential Benefits of THCa
THCa also has notable therapeutic and health benefits.
Anecdotal evidence shows that using raw THCA can help alleviate nausea, digestive issues, pain, and overall well-being.
Although research is still ongoing, some studies and clinical trials on animals suggest THCA might also offer benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties and antiemetic properties, which can help cancer patients undergoing treatment.
What is CBD?
CBD or cannabidiol is a non intoxicating compound found in hemp plants. Unlike THCA, CBD does not convert to THC when heated. It won't get you high, but many people use it for wellness benefits like pain relief, stress management, and improved sleep.
In this section, we will explore the chemical structure of CBD, its effects, and uses.
Chemical Structure of CBD
CBD and THC have the same 21 carbon, 30 hydrogen, 2 oxygen atoms, but different arrangements, which leads to different effects on our body.
This is why CBD doesn’t bind to the brain’s CB1 receptors like THC does.
So whether you’re using CBD oil, edibles or tinctures, it stays true to its non psychoactive form.
Effects of CBD
As mentioned CBD doesn’t activate the CB1 receptor. However it’s thought to influence other cannabinoid receptors in your body including serotonin receptors that help manage your mood and GABA receptors that regulate your nervous system.
This is why CBD has FDA approval for certain epilepsy treatments, as it has anti-anxiety and anti-seizure benefits.
To sum it up, CBD works with your body to create a sense of calm without any intoxicating effects.
Potential Benefits of CBD
Because CBD interacts with many receptors throughout the brain and body, it’s used in medical marijuana for its benefits in supporting both mental and physical health.
Anecdotal evidence suggests CBD helps with:
- Chronic pain
- Stress and anxiety
- Better sleep
- Inflammation
- Faster recovery
- Mood support
Again, the effects will vary from one person to another. More human studies are needed to fully understand CBD potential. So far, the FDA has only approved one CBD-based medicinal product, Epidiolex (for certain types of epilepsy).
THCa vs CBD: Key Differences Compared
We have walked the long path! You are now well educated on the basics of THCA and CBD. Time to lay them side by side and look at their key differences (and Similarities).
Keep reading!
Psychoactive Effects
In their raw state, both CBD and THCA are non-psychoactive cannabinoids. When you apply heat, THCA changes to THC and becomes psychoactive but CBD will remain non-intoxicating due to its stable nature.
Legality
Both compounds are hemp-derived and federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill as long as they contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.
That said, some states have imposed their own restrictions on THCa because it can convert into THC. Still, you can legally purchase THCA from online sources like BaySmokes that ship nationwide.
CBD, however, is more widely accepted - which is why you’ll find it in gas stations, dispensaries, pharmacies, or any hemp store you can think of, to say the least.
Just remember, laws are always changing, so always check your local laws before buying.
Methods of Consumption
The market provides! You have plenty of ways to add either THCA or CBD to your routine. It’s up to you and what you’re looking for:
- THCA products are available in THCA flower, vapes, gummies, pre-rolls, and concentrates
- CBD products are available in oils, capsules, gummies, topicals (lotions, creams), tinctures, and edibles.
Side Effects
CBD is well tolerated by many but may cause dry mouth or drowsiness in some users. THCa, once converted to THC, can cause red eyes, increased appetite, and in rare cases anxiety or paranoia, especially if you make the rookie mistake of ingesting higher concentrations.
Choosing Between THCa and CBD: Which Is Right for You?
It’s a personal decision. It’s about what you want to feel and your wellness goals.
As a general guide:
- Choose THCa products if you want psychoactive effects like delta-9 THC. This is for the person looking for a recreational experience, to unwind or change their mood. Just remember you have to add heat first.
- Choose CBD products if you need balance in your daily wellness routine. People use it for chronic pain, stress or sleep issues.
Can’t decide? Why not try both? You can find THCA live rosin carts with a 1:1 ratio of CBD and THC from BaySmokes.
Where to Buy THCA Products Online
Many reputable vendors sell THCA products online. Look for trusted sellers who sell legal products that are grown organically and lab tested, like Bay Smokes, to ensure you’re getting a safe, high-quality product.
BaySmokes Ships THCA products nationwide, and better yet, we offer free shipping for orders above $77! Shop BaySmokes today!
FAQs:
Which is Better, CBD or THCA?
It depends on your goals. CBD is for everyday wellness without a high. THCA is for its raw potential benefits or for a THC experience after decarboxylation.
Is THCA Just CBD?
No. THCA is the acidic precursor to THC and requires heat to convert; CBD is a separate, stable cannabinoid.
What is the Main Difference Between THCA and CBD?
THCA converts to a psychoactive compound when heated, while CBD remains non-intoxicating in all forms.
What Does CBD Feel Like?
CBD users report mild calm, relaxed muscles, mental clarity without euphoria.
What Does THCA Do to Your Brain?
In its raw form, THCA has little interaction with your brain's cannabinoid receptors, but once you heat it, it becomes THC, binds to CB1 receptors, and produces the typical effects of THC.
Can I Use THCA and CBD Together?
Yes, people often combine raw THCa flower with CBD oil, looking for a balance between psychoactive properties and therapeutic effects.
Will THCA Make Me Fail a Drug Test?
When heated, THCA converts to THC which can trigger a positive result on a drug test looking for THC metabolites.
Is THCA Legal in all States?
THCA is hemp-derived and federally legal under the 2018 farm bill, but the laws for cannabis products vary by state, so we advise you to check your local regulations before placing an order.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of THCa?
Raw THCA has few known side effects, but decarbed THCA can cause dry mouth, red eyes, anxiety, and an increased heart rate in some users.