In the United States, THCa is legal with a few important caveats.
For starters, the cannabinoid must come from industrial hemp with a THC level of 0.3% or below.
Take note that some states and cities consider THCa products, including THCa flower to be illegal..
Once THCa is decarboxylated (smoked) it is recognized by the body as traditional THC producing a similar psychoactive effect indistinguishable from marijuana.
Boston Hemp notes that THCa is genetically and naturally produced and not a synthetic alternative like it's counterpart Delta 8..
THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that is abundant in raw cannabis buds, and does not have psychoactive qualities when consumed in its unprocessed form.
THCa is converted into a psychoactive THC chemical when heated, smoked, or vaped..
THCA is the acidic, non-psychoactive form of THC found in raw, unheated cannabis, while THC is the psychoactive form of the compound that results from heating or aging cannabis.
THC is responsible for the characteristic "high" associated with marijuana use, while THCA does not have psychoactive effects..
Without the high of THC, consuming THCa can lead to less appealing side effects, including nausea, indigestion or an upset stomach, allergic reactions in the form of skin rashes, itching, or respiratory symptoms, or unwanted drug interactions with prescription medications..
How does THCA affect the brain? THCA does not bind to brain receptors like THC unless it undergoes decarboxylation.
However, THCA does exhibit neuroprotective properties that may have potential in the prevention and treatment of conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's..
THCA works to relieve inflammation, pain and is an ideal cannabinoid for treating symptoms of such conditions as arthritis, seizures.
THCA is an effective neuroprotectant, so it is beneficial in the treatment of such conditions as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease..
