Skip to main content


Sidebar
What is THCA vs THC?

What is THCA vs THC?

Posted by Green Nursery on Jan 29, 2025

Green Nursery

THCa vs. THC: What’s the Difference? A Complete and Quick Guide

As cannabis and hemp products become more popular, many people ask: What is THCa vs. THC? These two compounds are closely related, but they behave very differently in the body. If you’ve ever wondered why raw cannabis won’t get you high but heated cannabis does, this guide is for you.

 

What Is THCa?

THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is the raw, unheated form of THC found in fresh hemp and cannabis plants. Unlike THC, THCa is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the euphoric effects commonly associated with cannabis use.

However, when exposed to heat, THCa undergoes a chemical process called decarboxylation, transforming into THC—the active compound that interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

What Is THC?

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the well-known cannabinoid responsible for cannabis’ psychoactive effects. Unlike THCa, THC is activated and readily interacts with CB1 receptors in the brain, leading to its well-known effects.

How Does THCa Become THC?

THCa converts into THC through decarboxylation, which occurs when cannabis is:

  • Smoked or Vaped: The heat instantly activates THC.
  • Baked or Cooked: Edibles require heating cannabis first to activate THC.
  • Exposed to Air & Time: Over time, THCa slowly degrades into THC.
 

THCa vs. THC: Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureTHCaTHC
Psychoactive? No Yes
Found in Raw hemp, fresh cannabis flower Heated cannabis, edibles, vapes
Activation Requires heat to convert to THC Already active
Common Uses Raw extracts, tinctures, fresh cannabis Smoking, vaping, edibles

THCa vs. THC: Legal Differences

Hemp-derived THCa is legal under the 2018 Farm Bill as long as the total THC content remains below 0.3% by dry weight. However, once THCa is heated and converted into THC, it may become subject to different legal restrictions.

For up-to-date legal information, check out our cannabis education blog.

Should You Choose THCa or THC?

Deciding between THCa and THC depends on your needs:

  • Looking for non-psychoactive benefits? THCa might be the right fit.
  • Prefer traditional cannabis effects? THC is the better choice.
  • Interested in full-spectrum options? Some products balance both THCa and THC.

Explore our premium selection of cannabinoid products to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is THCa Stronger Than THC?

No, THCa is non-intoxicating until it is converted into THC. However, once decarboxylated, it has the same potency as THC.

Can You Smoke THCa?

Yes! Smoking THCa-rich flower converts it into THC instantly, producing the desired effects.

Does THCa Show Up on a Drug Test?

Yes. Even though THCa itself isn’t intoxicating, many drug tests check for total THC content, which includes THCa.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between THCa and THC can help you make informed choices when selecting cannabis and hemp products. Whether you're interested in raw THCa or activated THC, knowing how these compounds interact can help you find the right product for your needs.

Looking to explore high-quality hemp and cannabis options? Browse our latest selection of  thca flower today!

 

Popular Products

Check out these customer favorites.