Does THCA Get You High? [Breaking Down the Facts]

You may have heard of the popular cannabinoid THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid, THCa, THC-a, THC-A). But are you familiar with its potential therapeutic benefits? For some, the more important question is, does THCA get you high? Well, yes, it does. And also, no, it doesn’t. Confused? Don’t be; we’ll clear it up! THCa is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in cannabis plants. It’s present in both hemp plants and marijuana plants.

In its natural state, THCA does not get you high. However, the application of heat converts THCA into THC (Delta 9 THC, Delta 9, D9, or D9 THC), which has euphoric effects. So, when you think of it that way, you could say THCA gets you high. But there’s more than one method to consume THCA. And depending on that method, you’ll feel uplifted or not. Keep reading to examine the nuances of this cannabinoid and find out if THCA gets you high or not.

What is THCA?

Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA) occurs naturally in cannabis plants. It’s present in both hemp and marijuana plants. THCA is a plentiful cannabinoid that serves as the precursor to THC, the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. The THCA cannabinoid provides several therapeutic benefits, including boosted relaxation, reduced anxiousness, and relief from physical discomfort.

THCA is non-euphoric. However, once THCA is exposed to heat, it converts into THC, which produces powerful euphoric effects. This process is called decarboxylation, and we’ll discuss it in detail a little later. You can also consume raw THCa to take advantage of its benefits without the euphoria.

THCA vs THC: Understanding the Differences

The main difference between THCA and THC is that THC produces euphoria, and THCA does not. This difference comes down to their different chemical structures. THCA has an additional carboxyl group in its chemical structure. This is what accounts for its non-psychoactive characteristics.

There are also legal differences between THCA and THC. THCA is legal because it is a non-euphoric compound found in cannabis plants. When it comes to hemp-derived THCa, it is federally legal and legal in most states. The 2018 Farm Bill made hemp and hemp-derived products legal as long as they contain 0.3% Delta 9 THC or less.

However, THCA and THC from marijuana are federally illegal. Hemp-derived THC is federally legal, while marijuana-derived THC is federally illegal. State laws may vary regarding the legality of THC, regardless of source. Because THCA hemp flower is legal, many enthusiasts choose to buy this so they can light up and enjoy the benefits of THC legally.

Benefits of THCA

THCA may possess some potential therapeutic effects. These effects are still under study, but the research is promising. It’s important to note that THCA is not meant to replace any current medication or treatment you are undergoing. THCA is neither a medication nor a replacement for any medications you may take. Before taking THCA, consult a licensed medical professional to determine how THCA will affect you.

In the meantime, let’s look at some potential therapeutic properties of THCA that are currently being studied.

Neuroprotective Properties

A 2017 study revealed that THCA may have neuroprotective effects. It activates PPARγ pathways, which play a role in homeostasis and metabolic function. THCA was shown to reduce neural degeneration and motor deficits in mice. It may be a potential treatment for Huntington’s Disease and other neuroinflammatory conditions.

Anticonvulsant Benefits

A 2022 study shows that THCA may have anticonvulsant benefits. It may present a potential future treatment for epilepsy. However, more research is needed to establish its effectiveness.

Inflammation Control Benefits

A 2017 study revealed that THCA may be useful in combatting inflammation. The research indicates that the potential anti-inflammatory properties of most cannabis compounds are primarily derived from the THCA flower. What’s more, THCA may be potentially more effective in fighting inflammation than CBD. THCA’s potential anti-inflammatory properties make it a possible treatment for certain inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis.

Pain & Nausea Management

THCA’s potential anti-inflammatory properties mean it could also effectively relieve discomfort. A 2020 study showed that it may relieve discomfort related to collagen-induced arthritis. THCA interacts with your endocannabinoid system’s (ECS) CB1 cannabinoid receptors through the orthosteric binding site to target inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

The non-psychoactive compound may also reduce nausea and vomiting. A 2020 animal study revealed that it was more effective than THC flower at controlling nausea. Its potential therapeutic benefits may make it a suitable treatment for people who are suffering from nausea due to chemotherapy and other medical conditions and medications.

Forms of THCA

Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid is available on the cannabis market in various form factors. Here are some you may consider purchasing.

THCa Flower

Raw THCA cannabis flower will not get you high. You can consume it raw by adding it to cold foods like salads or cold drinks like smoothies and juices. But if it’s euphoria you seek, you need to heat it. Once the right amount of heat is applied, the THCA will convert into THC to provide elevating euphoria.

• THCa Flower. You can add THCA flower to baked goods. But smoking THCa is the most popular way to enjoy this type of flower. Grind and smoke the flower using bongs, pipes, bubblers, or flower vapes. You can also roll it into joints.
• THCA Pre-Rolls. THCA pre-rolls are ground THCA flower rolled into a joint. They offer the ultimate convenience for flower fans. Choose from various strains for an anytime smoke.

THCa Vapes

THCA Vapes allow you to enjoy THC pleasure anywhere life takes you. Vapes are pocket-sized and discreet. There is no combustion, as vaporizers use a heating element to produce vapor. THCA will convert into THC and produce psychoactive effects when heated at high temperatures.

• THCA Cartridges. Feature a universal 510-thread attachment port. They can be added to any vape pen to get you high. Choose from various flavors and potencies.
• THCA Disposables. Portable, prefilled, and pre-charged vapes. Disposable THCA vapes do not require charging or refilling. Most are draw-activated with no priming of the heating element required. Once consumed, simply toss.

THCa Concentrates

THCA Concentrates will only get you high if heat is applied. Consuming THCa concentrates requires the use of a dab rig. If you dab a THCA concentrate, it will get you high once inhaled. Those who prefer vaping can enjoy the benefits of THCa concentrates with a dab pen or wax vape.

• THCa Isolate. Raw crystalline powder that’s 99%+ pure THCA. It can be consumed raw, incorporated into food or drinks, or sprinkled into joints. 
• THCA Rosin is a potent concentrate extracted under high heat and pressure conditions. It has a dry, cookie dough texture. The solventless extraction maintains high levels of pure THCA. It will not get you high unless it’s heated. 
• THCA Wax. A highly concentrated form of THCA with a malleable wax-like texture. It can be dabbed or vaporized. THCA wax will not get you high unless heated. 
• THCA Diamonds. THCA diamonds are small, crystalline structures of highly concentrated Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid. They will only get you high when heated. They are exceptionally potent.

THCa Edibles

THCA edibles are products infused with THCA that are meant to be consumed. Several types of edibles are available on the market, ranging from beverages to snacks to the most popular forms below.

• THCA Gummies. These predosed soft chews provide the benefits of the cannabis plant without the psychoactive properties. Since no heat is applied, they will not get you high. The only exception may be if the gummies contain other cannabinoids that are psychoactive. 
• THCA Oil (THCA Tinctures). A tincture is a carrier oil infused with THCA isolate. They offer versatility in dosing. You can take THCA oil directly by swallowing your recommended dose or taking it sublingually for quicker uptake and onset of results. You can also mix it into drinks or add it to your favorite foods.

Bulk and Wholesale THCa

Sellers and consumers may purchase THCA at bulk or wholesale rates. It is typically sold as raw cannabis plants and will not get you high. How you choose to use this is up to you. Since it’s a flower product, you can consume it like any THCA flower product.

Decarboxylation Process

The process used to convert THCA into Delta-9 THC is called decarboxylation. In layperson’s terms, it simply means heating cannabis. However, the right heat and duration conditions must exist.

Smoking and vaping are typically the main methods of quickly decarboxylating THCA. Fortunately, for those who do not smoke or vape, other methods exist. One popular method that does not require direct heat is the oven method.

Experts recommend heating THCA at 220 and 240 Fahrenheit for 30 minutes. You can easily do this in an oven. Decarboxylation at lower temperatures preserves more plant terpenes, making for a richer, more aromatic product. Heat THCA at higher temperatures, and you risk diminishing the terpene profile, which is responsible for flavor and aroma. However, the product may be more potent.

Is THCA Legal?

Yes, THCA is federally legal. It is compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill, which states that hemp and hemp-based products are legal as long as they have a THC content of 0.3% or less.

State laws vary. Some states have legalized cannabis regardless of the cannabis content. Some do not allow any THC products. Others are in line with federal law and have legalized cannabis with a THC content of 0.3% or less.

This article provides current guidelines on weed’s legality by state.

FAQs on THCA

How Often Should One Consume THCA?

There are no hard and fast rules regarding the consumption of THCA. Some consume it as part of their wellness routine, while others consume it as needed. Start slowly to see how THCA affects you, and adjust your dosage as you go.

Does THCA Get You High?

THCA does not get you high in its raw form. However, when heated, it will convert to Delta 9 THC, which produces stimulating euphoria.

Where Can I Get the Best THCA?

Source THCA from a trusted online provider. Buying THCA products online gives you access to an extensive catalog of products and provides ultimate convenience. Once satisfied, you can have your THCA products delivered right to your door. Find a retailer that performs third-party lab testing and has positive customer reviews. Fortunately, you don’t have to look far — Budpop is a recommended source.

How Does THCA Make Me Feel High?

THCA will not get you high unless it is heated and converted to THC. It may have potential therapeutic benefits in its “cooked” form. THCA may promote relaxation, reduce physical comfort, and elevate mood.

Does THCA Show up on a Drug Test?

Yes, there is a possibility that THCa may show up as a positive result on a drug test. This is because most drug tests check for the presence of THC. And since THCa has a similar chemical formula as THC, it may end up triggering a false positive.

Final Thoughts – Does THCa Get You High? [Breaking Down the Facts]

Unlike THC, THCA is a non-euphoric cannabinoid. However, THCA converts into euphoric THC when heat is applied. So, to answer your question, “Does THCA get you high when burned?” The answer is yes, it does! This can occur from combustion, such as smoking THCA flower or heating them, like when you consume THCA vapes or incorporate THCa flower into baked goods. You can take THCA as either raw cannabis or heated forms. In any case, THCA will provide potential therapeutic properties.

Regardless of how you choose to enjoy this cannabinoid, ensure you enjoy THCA safely. You will have a good THCA experience if you purchase it from a trusted source like Budpop. Always buy from brands that provide third-party lab testing and whose products have positive customer reviews. Curious to try THCA? Head to our THCA shop and browse our high THCA percentage products to deliver on its benefits. One hit of our THCA Flower, Pre-Rolls, Vapes, and Concentrates will make you realize why we have the best THCa products in the cannabis industry! We wish you the best on your cannabis journey.