THCA

Cannabinoids – THCA

Technically speaking, THCA, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is not a cannabinoid, but as the name suggests it is the acidic precursor to THC. It is the most abundant compound reaching up to 15–30 percent of the dry weight of the plant.

No THC in Raw Cannabis

It may sound a little bit surprising, but there is virtually no psychoactive THC in living cannabis plant, however, once it is harvested, the naturally occurring non-psychoactive THCA begins to convert into well known THC (this process can be accelerated by exposure to heat – smoking, vaporizing or cooking). In chemical terms, the THCA loses its carboxy group and about 12 percent of its weight when converting into THC.

Therapeutic Uses of THCA

So far there has not been enough research on medical properties of THCA to accurately state what it can treat and how effectively, however laboratory tests and anecdotal experiences with consuming raw cannabis show that tetrahydrocannabinolic acid has anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-emetic, antispasmodic or antiproliferative properties. Other possible medical effects supported by patient testimonials include treatment of insomnia and gastrointestinal disorders.