What is THCA
For all intents and purposes, THCA operates the same as regular THC. It is naturally cultivated from hemp and protected under the 2018 Farm Bill. Happyface THCA products are shipped straight to your door, allowing you to avoid unreliable dealers or high-cost dispensaries/delivery services. We're confident our new lineup will provide an experience you'll love!
What is THCA?
THCA stands for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, which is a naturally occurring compound found in cannabis plants. It is the precursor to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound responsible for the "high" associated with marijuana consumption. THCA is found in the raw, unheated cannabis plant, and it only converts to THC through a process called decarboxylation, which involves the application of heat.
When cannabis is smoked, vaporized, or heated in cooking, THCA undergoes decarboxylation, transforming into THC. In its acidic form (THCA), the compound does not produce the intoxicating effects commonly associated with THC. Some people consume raw cannabis for its potential health benefits without experiencing the psychoactive effects, as the decarboxylation process hasn't occurred.
It's essential to note that THCA and THC are just two of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, each with its own potential therapeutic effects and properties.
What Does THCA Do?
THCA is the acidic precursor to THC and is found in raw, unheated cannabis plants. In its raw form, THCA has a different chemical structure and does not bind well to the cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which are responsible for the psychoactive effects of THC.
The conversion of THCA to THC occurs through a process called decarboxylation, which involves the application of heat. This typically happens when cannabis is smoked, vaporized, or cooked. Once decarboxylated, THCA transforms into THC, and it is at this point that it can produce the characteristic euphoric and intoxicating effects.
If you consume cannabis in its raw form or use products that haven't undergone decarboxylation, such as certain juices or smoothies made with fresh cannabis leaves, you're more likely to experience the potential therapeutic effects of THCA without the psychoactive effects associated with THC. Always be aware of the legal status of cannabis and its components in your location, and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
How to Take THCA
When smoking cannabis you are decarboxylating it converting the THCA into regular THC. This means that in order to absorb THCA you’ll either need to find a freshly made extract of it or you can ingest raw cannabis. There are several concentrates meant for dabbing that are advertised as being high in THCA but these will convert over time into THC depending on how much light and room temperature heat it is exposed to.