Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid hemp flower, more commonly known as THCa flower, is a phytocannabinoid variant which shares a lot of properties with CBD. There is currently more research than ever going into the 100+ phytocannabinoids found in the cannabis plant and THCa is one of the compounds that is budding a lot of interest. So, let’s take a look at what THCa is exactly and the potential benefits it could offer.
THCa is the non-intoxicating precursor to the very well-known psychoactive compound THC. THCa is essentially the raw form of THC, and must undergo a process called decarboxylation to unlock its euphoric high-inducing effect. This process requires heat or an extended period of time to age. This means that purchasing THCa flower in its fresh, unprocessed form is an excellent option for people who want to reap the therapeutic benefits of the cannabis plant without the cognitive impairment associated with cannabis products that contain high amounts of THC.
What makes THCa a potential rising star in the cannabis world?
As we have already mentioned, the fact that THCa flower is not intoxicating is a huge selling point for people seeking the health benefits of the plant without the “high”, but what exactly are the health benefits?
Well, research is ongoing but there is significant anecdotal evidence from users to suggest that it is effective in managing pain and inflammation, nausea and stress, all of which are commonly reported benefits of other cannabinoid-based products. THCa flower is also proven to have neuroprotective properties which could help manage and prevent neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. More clinical studies are required to confirm the full potential of THCa, but the early signs are very promising.
Believe it or not, raw THCa flower is actually considered to be a superfood as it is extremely nutrient dense – far more so than cooked or processed cannabis. It contains calcium, iron and vitamins A, C, E, B1 and B2 among others, so it also supports your immune system and essential bodily functions.
How should you consume THCa?
THCa is primarily ingested via smoking or vaping, but there are a whole range of ways to consume THCa to suit your tastes. You can make homemade edibles and topicals, add it into smoothies and even eat the raw flowers in salads or dips.
Bear in mind that any consumption process that includes heating the THCa flower (such as smoking or baking) will convert the THCa into psychoactive compound THC which will result in causing the euphoric high associated with marijuana. This will be a desirable factor for a lot of people as it’s a 2-in-1 solution, as long as you’re aware of which products will and won’t be intoxicating.
Is it safe to buy THCa?
When trying a new cannabis product it is important to find a professional retailer who is completely transparent about their products. In the United States, cannabis products derived from hemp plants are legal so you don’t need to worry about falling on the wrong side of the law.
You can find THCa flower for sale online from reliable retailers such as Premium Jane who have entire teams of experts and lab-test all of their products to verify the content and purity of their products.
Remember that THCa flowers that have aged for an extended period of time are likely to contain higher levels of THC, therefore creating a psychoactive effect, so it’s good to know when your cannabis was harvested and to start off with very low doses to see how your body responds.
So, is THCa ready to take the spotlight?
Cannabis users all have their own preferences and certain types of cannabis products affect individuals differently, so there’ll always be demand for all kinds of different products. However, the fact that THCa can offer solely therapeutic, non-intoxicating effects or provide that euphoric high depending on how it is prepared will be extremely appealing to a lot of users who want to use cannabis products both medicinally and recreationally.
So although THCa won’t be the perfect option for everyone, it’s easy to see how it is blazing a trail to become one of the most popular cannabis products on the market. It’s also great for making people aware of the vast potential health benefits far beyond its more commonly known recreational use.