THCa: The Next Big Powerhouse Cannabinoid

January 24, 2024

THCa, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is a rare, natural cannabinoid. It’s a super powerful compound that’s becoming more and more popular for the effects and benefits it can produce.

Where Does THC a Come From?

THCa is found in the highest amounts in the trichomes of the cannabis flower. Trichomes are tiny, hair-like structures on the surface of the plant — they’re what make high-quality bud look “frosty.” THCa is also found in smaller amounts in other parts of the plant, like the leaves and stems.

We have to go all the way back to CBDa, sometimes known as the “mother of all cannabinoids,” to really tell you where THCa comes from. CBDa is converted into THCa over time. THCa is then converted into the THC that we all know and love when the flower is heated. You’re probably already familiar with this chemical reaction if you’ve ever decarbed, vaped, or smoked weed, since all of those processes require heat to work!

What are the Benefits of THC a?

Scientists and medical professionals are studying THCa to find out all of the benefits it can offer. One study suggests that THCa could have anti-inflammatory properties, but we still need more research and trials on humans. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, but long-term inflammation can lead to health problems. Managing inflammation can contribute to overall health and wellbeing.

THCa might also provide potential neuroprotective effects, but, again, we need more studies to see how this works in humans. Neuroprotection is a fancy way of saying that a compound helps to protect the central nervous system. Scientists are also working on research to see if THCa could be beneficial in helping to treat cancer.THCa offers so many benefits that many people have even started juicing raw cannabis flower in order to get the most out of it. This way, you can enjoy the potential benefits of THCa and get a serving of fruits or veggies in at the same time.

How to Use THC a

You can take THCa in a few different ways, depending on your goals and what you prefer. Raw THCa has a ton of potential health benefits without the “high” that most people associate with weed. When the flower is smoked or vaporized, though, the THCa is converted to THC through the process of decarboxylation. It’s the same idea as heating your cannabis flower before using it to make a batch of homemade special brownies!

Smoking or vaping THCa, sometimes in the form of THCa Diamonds, are some of the most popular ways to consume this lit cannabinoid since they “activate” the THCa and turn it into THC. Plus, you can still get most of the potential benefits this way too. It’s the best of both worlds!

What Does THC a Feel Like?

Overall, THCa is a promising rare cannabinoid that scientists are researching to learn more about its potential health benefits. We still need more research to really understand all of the possibilities of THCa, but it’s shown a ton of promise in health and wellness so far.

We do know, though, that THCa gets turned into THC and that it will deliver really similar effects to the THC we all know and love.

Can THCa be Converted to THC?

Yes! That’s one of the coolest things about THCa. It’s the precursor to THC, which means that THCa turns into THC when you decarboxylate it. Decarboxylation is also known as “decarbing” or just adding heat, and you’re probably already super familiar with the process — that’s what you’re doing when you smoke, vaporize, or make flower into edibles!

Where is THCa Legal?

Technically, THCa is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. Some states have gone back and specifically banned THCa, though, so make sure to check your local laws to be sure.

Where Can I Buy THC a?

THCa is hitting the shelves in all of the best online smoke shops. It’s important to buy all of your cannabis products from a trusted source, like Bay Smokes.

We’re super excited to carry a couple strains of dank THC a flower. Ice Cream Cookies THCa hybrid is a sweet strain for any time of day — literally. Gelato THCa Indica is smooth and chill, so it’s great for lazy afternoons and late nights. Try both strains to find your new favorite!