Tetrahydrocannabinol (THCA) is a chemical compound called a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant that has the potential for medical use. It is also popular because it can be heated to convert to other cannabinoids, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or delta-9 THC. Cannabis and hemp are two types of cannabis plants that are part of the same species. THCA is typically higher in fresh cannabis plants, especially in raw cannabis buds, compared to dried cannabis plants.
What Is A THCA Flower?
THCA stands for tetrahydrocannabinol acid, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in raw, unheated cannabis. Unlike THC, THCA does not produce intoxication unless heated through smoking, vaping, or cooking. Many users seek out smokable thca flower for its health benefits, such as relieving inflammation, pain, and nausea. It is often consumed raw, as a juice, or made into a tincture to retain the flower’s natural properties. As interest in non-intoxicating cannabis compounds increases, THCA flower has become a popular choice for those seeking plant-based health support.
Understanding THCp and Its Effects:
THCp, short for tetrahydrocannabiphorol, is a relatively new and relatively unknown cannabinoid that has captured the attention of the cannabis community. This unique compound is similar to the more familiar compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), with slightly longer side chains that give it different properties. Although THC is the main psychoactive compound found in cannabis, THCp is believed to be 33 times more potent, potentially providing a more intense and longer-lasting experience. This increased potency comes from THCp’s ability to bind more tightly to the CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which are responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis.
Health Benefits of THCA:
Edible cannabis products have similar properties to other forms of medicine. People ingest them to achieve certain effects, such as relaxation, or to relieve certain symptoms, such as chronic pain. The effects of edibles depend on how much a person consumes. In general, the effects increase with ingestion. The effects can vary depending on the strain of cannabis. However, it is important to note that it is possible to overdose on cannabis, which can easily happen when a person consumes it in edibles, as the effects can take longer to occur.
Relaxation and Anxiety Relief:
Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids (CBD). A 2019 study of 72 adults with anxiety or insomnia found that over 79% of those who used smokable thca flower experienced a reduction in their symptoms throughout the study. Another small study of Japanese teenagers with social anxiety found that CBD helped reduce symptoms. It is important to note, however, that these studies focused solely on CBD. The cannabis plant contains other compounds, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
