What is the difference between THC and THCa?

What is the difference between THC and THCa?

The main difference between THC and THCA is that THC is psychoactive while THCA is not. Both THC and THCA are derivatives of the cannabis plant. However, while THC is found in high concentrations in marijuana, THCA is found in raw and live cannabis.

When cannabis is smoked or vaped, the heating process converts THCA into THC, which is why THCA is often referred to as the “non-psychoactive” version of THC. THC is the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. It’s what gives users the feeling of being “high.” THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, which alters a person’s mood and perception.

THCA, on the other hand, does not bind to CB1 receptors. Cannabis plants produce both THC and THCA.

However, THCA  converts into THC. This process is known as decarboxylation and usually occurs when cannabis is heated (for example, when it’s smoked or vaped). This is why most marijuana contains more THC than THCA.

It’s also worth noting that some people believe that consuming THCA may offer its own set of benefits.

For example, some people claim that THCA has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. However, there is currently no scientific evidence to support these claims.

Does THCa get you high?

When it comes to marijuana, many different compounds can be found in the plant. Some of these compounds, like THC, are known to produce psychoactive effects.

However, there is another compound found in marijuana that does not produce these psychoactive effects: THCA. So, does THCA get you high?

The simple answer is no, THCA does not get you high.

This is because THCA is a non-psychoactive compound. However, when THCA is heated (through smoking or cooking), it converts to THC – the compound that does produce psychoactive effects.

Therefore, while THCA itself may not get you high, if it’s heated it will produce THC and subsequently, have psychoactive effects.