What is THCA? Effects and Benefits

What is THCA and How We Are Allowed to Sell It – THCA Products at Lord Green Dispensary

Suppose you’ve been browsing the shelves at Lord Green Dispensary or on our website. You may have noticed products labeled with a cannabinoid called THCA. But what exactly is THCA, and why are we allowed to sell it? We are asked this question many times a day and how it works and we are here to help you understand what THCA really is. Let’s dive into this fascinating compound and explain how it fits into the world of legal cannabis. 

What is THCA? (THC-A)

THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is a naturally occurring compound, known as a cannabinoid, found in the cannabis plant. It’s a precursor to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound most commonly associated with the “high” from cannabis consumption. However, THCA itself is not a psychoactive cannabinoid.

How Does THCA Turn to THC?

When cannabis is heated through processes like smoking, vaping, or cooking, THCA undergoes a chemical conversion called decarboxylation. During this heating process, THCA loses a carboxyl group (COOH) and turns into THC, which is the compound that produces the well-known euphoric effects. The potency part that matters for most.

But, before decarboxylation, THCA has its own unique properties. Many people appreciate its potential health benefits, particularly for conditions like inflammation, pain, and nausea, without experiencing the intoxicating effects of THC.

The Benefits of THCA

While THCA may not have the same intoxicating effects as THC, it still offers a variety of potential therapeutic benefits, making it a valuable compound for those looking to consume cannabis without the negative effects that follow.

Some of the reported benefits of THCA include:

• Anti-inflammatory properties(1): Due to its interaction with cannabinoid receptors, THCA may help reduce inflammation and relieve associated symptoms, making it potentially beneficial for those suffering from arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.

• Neuroprotective effects(2): Preliminary research suggests that THCA may offer neuroprotective benefits, helping to protect the brain from damage.

• Anti-nausea and anti-vomiting properties(3): Due to its affinity with the endocannabinoid system. THCA has been suggested as a potential aid for those dealing with nausea or vomiting, especially in medical treatments like chemotherapy.

• Appetite stimulation: Some consumers find that THCA can help stimulate their appetite, which could be beneficial for people dealing with issues like appetite loss.

For those who want the therapeutic properties of cannabis without the effects of intoxication, THCA may be a great option to explore.

THCA vs THC – What’s the Difference Between Them?

THCA and THC, though closely related cannabinoid compounds serve distinct roles in the cannabis landscape. THCA, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is the non-psychoactive precursor to THC. When cannabis is heated, THCA converts to THC, resulting in the euphoric effects often associated with marijuana use. According to Dr. Ethan Russo, a neurologist and cannabis researcher, “Understanding the differences between these compounds can change how patients approach their treatment options.”

Research data suggests that THCA may offer therapeutic benefits without the intoxicating effects of THC. This highlights a growing interest among medical cannabis users who seek relief from conditions like arthritis or epilepsy without experiencing a high. As cannabis laws evolve, many consumers are now exploring products rich in THCA for their potential health benefits.

How We Are Allowed to Sell THCA Weed

You may be wondering how THCA fits into the world of legal cannabis sales. After all, THCA is chemically similar to THC, so how can dispensaries legally sell products containing it?

Here’s where the legal landscape comes into play.

1. THCA Isn’t Psychoactive (Until Decarboxylated)

Because THCA is not psychoactive in its raw form, it does not trigger the same legal restrictions that THC does. THCA does not produce the same intoxicating effects as THC, so it falls into a unique category of cannabis products that remain compliant with regulations. In states where cannabis is legalized, raw cannabis products containing THCA are typically legal to sell, as long as the product has not undergone decarboxylation (the process of converting THCA to THC).

For example, flower, tinctures, or concentrates that contain THCA can be legally sold as long as they remain in their acidic form. Once decarboxylated, the THCA turns into THC, which is a psychoactive compound that may require additional regulations and restrictions.

2. THCA Products in the Cannabis Market

At Lord Green Dispensary, we’re committed to offering a wide variety of cannabis products to suit every need. We sell THCA-rich flower that contain high levels of THCA, and some of our raw cannabis concentrates also feature THCA, providing a unique, non-psychoactive experience. These products are perfect for consumers who want the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without experiencing the high that comes with THC.

Some other products you might find that contain THCA include:

• Raw cannabis tinctures that preserve the THCA format (these are powerful options when seeking a cure)

• THCA-rich edibles that deliver the compound in a non-intoxicating form (some found the hard way after cooking edibles without decarboxylation of the flower)

• THCA crystals or diamonds, which are concentrated THCA that can be used in dabbing or other high-dose methods of consumption (though note, these will convert to THC when heated)

3. Compliance with State and Local Laws

At Lord Green, we adhere strictly to all state and local laws surrounding the sale of cannabis products. This means that our THCA products are thoroughly tested to ensure they comply with regulations and have the correct cannabinoid content. We also ensure that our products contain the appropriate levels of THCA and do not cross legal thresholds for THC molecules content until after decarboxylation occurs (in the case of a consumer’s method of consumption).

Additionally, we ensure that all products come with clear labeling, so you know exactly what you’re purchasing. This transparency is important for us because we want to give you the best experience possible, while also keeping things safe and compliant in all areas from Maryland across to California.

Why THCA is a Game Changer in Pennsylvania

The THCA molecule is an exciting cannabinoid in the cannabis world, offering potential therapeutic relaxation benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC. At Lord Green Dispensary, we’re thrilled to offer our customers THCA-rich products as part of our commitment to providing high-quality, diverse cannabis options, even for microdosing. We have all types of THCA products like THCA extracts, THCA flower strains, beverages, and several forms of THCA gummy.

Whether you’re looking for relief from inflammation, pain, or nausea, or simply want to explore cannabis, THCA may be just what you’re looking for. Rest assured, all of our THCA products are compliant with state laws, ensuring that you can enjoy them with peace of mind.

If you’re curious about THCA, and its availability in your jurisdiction, or have more questions about how it fits into your wellness routine, come visit us at Lord Green Dispensary or send us an email right now. Our knowledgeable staff is happy to help you find the perfect product for your needs!