If you’re interested in cannabis, you must have heard about THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), a mind-altering psychoactive cannabinoid. CBD (cannabidiol) and THC are the two most popular cannabinoids found in the raw cannabis plant.
But these days, other cannabinoids are surging into popularity, and THC-A is one of them. Reportedly, THC-A has therapeutic benefits thanks to its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, and anticonvulsant properties. Today, the cannabinoid is available in many forms like vapes THC-A, edibles, skin patches, and more.
But is it truly worth the hype? Let’s discover the pros and cons of THC-A to answer this question.
What exactly is THC-A?
THC-A (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is a non-psychoactive form of THC. It’s an acidic precursor to THC and is produced during the plant’s growth process.
Unlike THC, which causes euphoria with mind-upliftment and stimulation in its raw form, THC-A doesn’t produce psychoactive effects when consumed, whether in its raw form or as an extract. Put simply, THC-A doesn’t get you high.
However, the catch lies in the fact that THC-A flower, when burned or heated, converts into THC, blurring the lines between legality and illegality. As a result, if law enforcement were to test a burned or heated THC-A flower, it would likely show a high level of THC, potentially leading to legal complications.
It’s worth noting that THC-A flowers, when heated or burned, convert into THC. Heat triggers the decarboxylation process, which transforms acidic cannabinoids like THC-A into its non-acidic, active version – THC.
[Benefits] Pros of THC-A
- THC-A for Pain Relief
THC-A has the ability to interact with our endocannabinoid system that is responsible for regulating pain and inflammation. When THC-A binds to these receptors, it may ease the inflammation, which is the underlying cause of chronic pain.
- Neuroprotection
Recent studies show that THC-A exhibits potent neuroprotective activity, which may be helpful in the treatment of Huntington’s disease and other neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases like Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Antiemetic Effects
A rodent study indicates that THC-A’s antiemetic effects make it a more potent alternative to THC in the treatment of vomiting and nausea. So, it can be helpful to patients undergoing chemotherapy or experiencing nausea due to medical conditions.
- Appetite Stimulation
THC-A may help stimulate appetite, which makes it helpful for those experiencing appetite loss because of a medical condition or treatment.
- Weight Management
Another study of a mouse model conducted by a Spanish research group shows that THC-A can block weight gain and reduce fat mass and liver steatosis. In addition, the cannabinoid may also improve glucose tolerance and insulin levels and decrease the risk of obesity-related disorders.
- Anxiety
THC-A may provide relief from heightened anxiety and associated conditions without causing intoxication. The cannabinoid’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system suggests its potential benefits for anxiety relief. It’s because the endocannabinoid system in our body plays a major role in physiological processes, such as stress response, mood regulation, and managing anxiety levels.
Anticonvulsant Effects
THC-A is found to have anticonvulsant properties in preliminary preclinical investigations. So, it may be effective in the treatment of epilepsy and other causes of seizures.
Other Potential Benefits of THC-A according to scientific research:
- Anti-Inflammatory
- Treating sleeplessness
- Anti-tumor
- Antispasmodic
Important Note: All of the above-listed benefits of THC-A are results of preliminary research. More research and exploration are needed to fully understand and prove the benefits of THC-A for various medical conditions. As the scientific work advances, it may provide further insights into the potential therapeutic effects of THA-C.
Cons of THC-A
It’s argued that THC-A may have possible side effects as THC. The most common cons of THC-A are:
- Red eyes
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Change in appetite
- Increased heart rate
But it’s worth noting that THC-A doesn’t make you high like THC, and all of the above side effects come with THC as well.
THC-A FAQS
Can you buy THC-A online?
Yes, you can buy THC-A online. There are many reputable online cannabis retailers and dispensaries that sell all types of cannabis products. You can buy everything from a THC blend to THC-A vapes, CBD edibles, and more.
Does THC-A get you as high?
No, THC-A cannot get you high.
Does THC-A degrade?
Yes, THC-A may degrade depending on the way it is stored and the duration of time. Although temperature strongly influences THC-A, it may not cause significant deviation in the total potency of THC-A.
Is THC-A addictive?
THC-A can be addictive, but it doesn’t preclude that you might start taking too much of it.