We’ve all been there. Most people have low tolerance for cannabis and cannabis derived products when they first start using it, and some of them just naturally have low tolerance, even though they are experienced consumers. On top of that, many are interested in trying cannabis in one shape or another, but they are concerned about the psychoactive effects that it produces, and would like to avoid or reduce them.
With its various methods of consumption, not only is the use of cannabis steadily rising all around the globe in most age brackets, but it is even threatening to surpass alcohol in its popularity. Traditional THC can be overwhelming for some people, especially those who are just starting to navigate their cannabis journey. If you are one of them, we have some good news - meet THCA.
Isn’t It Called THC?
No! THC is short for tetrahydrocannabinol, which is responsible for producing psychoactive effects. THCA, on the other hand, stands for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid. It is a cannabinoid that occurs naturally in raw cannabis plants. The key difference between the two is that THCA is not intoxicating. It will not give you the psychoactive effects that cannabis is famous for.
The process of carboxylation can make THCA, which is a relatively chemically unstable substance, lose a carboxyl group and convert to Delta-9 THC, the famous psychoactive substance. Carboxylation happens when cannabis is heated, usually through smoking and vaping.
Because of being non-psychoactive and retaining the beneficial traits that cannabinoids are known for, THCA represents an excellent starting point for everyone trying to get into the world of cannabis, as long as it’s not intentionally converted into THC.
Low Tolerance? No problem!
As mentioned before, the cutting edge of THCA is that it doesn’t produce any psychoactive effects while still offering some of the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. In its raw form, THCA has been associated with various positive effects on consumers.
Studies show that THCA has anti-inflammatory potential. It can reduce inflammation throughout the body, including conditions like arthritis or regular aches, especially with nausea and vomiting. Similarly, it may help with pain relief, while not as potent as THC in its analgesic function, it can contribute to pain management. Early research also shows that THCA may contain anti-cancer properties, as it can help inhibit the growth of tumorous cells.
In addition to physical health benefits, THCA may help stimulate the appetite in a similar way to THC. It also shows promise in protecting brain cells from damage, making it relevant for further study regarding neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. Another mental health benefit is that it might help those who are prone to anxiety or discomfort with THC, because it makes the experience milder and more controllable.
Consumption
For THCA to stay in its form and not lose a carboxyl group, it is important to pursue a method of consumption that doesn’t involve heating cannabis. For instance, fresh cannabis leaves and buds can be juiced, making it a perfect and clean way for individuals to consume THCA. Another option is to choose THCA edibles that don’t contain the psychoactive THC. These consumption methods are ideal for focusing on the therapeutic effects of cannabis without intoxication, and it is an optimal entry point for newcomers.
However, once you pass that beginner stage, if you feel optimistic about it, you can also try to vape at a lower temperature — some vaporizers allow users to control the precise temperature. Even though some THCA will get converted into THC, it will still offer a milder experience than regular cannabis smoking. For those not concerned about the process of carboxylation, alternatives include smoking smaller amounts of THCA flower and consuming edibles.
The Golden Rule
In case you haven’t heard it before: start low and go slow! If you are consuming raw THCA, begin with a small pinch of flower in your smoothie or with just a few drops of tincture. Monitor effects and slowly increase the dose if you feel comfortable.
The same applies for activating THCA to produce mild psychoactive effects (e.g., start with just a tiny puff from a low-temperature vape). Wait an hour or two for inhaled methods and two to four hours for edibles before consuming more.
Be aware that the effects of THCA, like most other substances, vary from person to person. It’s best to keep track of dosage, methods, duration, and onset times to find out what works best for you. You can also contact your chosen healthcare professional, especially if using THCA for medical purposes.
Whatever the cause for your interest in cannabis may be, THCA can offer you an exciting first step for wellness and a personalized cannabis experience.
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