What is THCA?

THCA is a compound that is abundant in raw cannabis plants. After the plant is harvested and dried, THCA slowly converts to THC, the compound in cannabis chiefly responsible for a euphoric high. However, when you purchase cannabis, these dried buds still contain mostly THCA—not THC. In order to convert the rest of the THCA into THC, you must apply heat by smoking the buds with a lighter or by vaporizing them.

This conversion process of turning THCA into THC is called decarboxylation, because it involves removing carbon atoms from carbon chains. In canna butter recipes, instructions always mention that cannabis needs to be decarboxylated in an oven in order for edibles to deliver potent effects—that’s because the THCA needs to be converted into THC.

Benefits of THCA

Research has yet to thoroughly explore the therapeutic benefits of THCA, however consumers typically use this cannabinoid to treat inflammation in conditions like arthritis and lupus. THCA may also have neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-nausea properties. For those who prefer to not feel high, THCA has the added benefit of being non-intoxicating, meaning it will not produce the euphoric (or anxious) effects commonly associated with THC.