Have you loved the relief that cannabis provides but are tired of dealing with its intoxication? Then we might have a solution for you. There is more to cannabis than just getting high, and THCA provides just that. THC-A is a non-psychoactive compound of cannabis that provides numerous health benefits without getting high.
This article is about THCA and its unprocessed, raw form, which is the THCA flower. This unique form of cannabis has a lot to offer, which you will find out as you move along in this article. Keep reading to find out why you should consider using it, and also find out some of our top recommendations.
Understanding THC-A Flower
THCA flower has been popular for providing unique properties without the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis. It not only holds various benefits but also has an interesting harvesting process. Keep reading to learn more about THCA flowers.
What is a THCA Flower?
THCA flower is a type of cannabis flower that is the most natural form of THCA. THCA, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is the non-psychoactive compound of the cannabis plant.
The THCA flower is usually referred to as the fresh, raw cannabis buds that have not been exposed to heat to maintain the levels of THCA and thus preserve its properties.
How Is THCA Flower Made?
The production of high-quality THCA flowers is carried out by a set of processes that are done with a lot of care and attention. Here is an overview of the process:
Trichomes Development
Trichomes are tiny resinous glands that are found on the surface of cannabis flowers or leaves. These glands are responsible for producing and containing cannabinoids like THCA, terpenes, and CBD. THCA flowers can only be harvested when these trichomes are fully developed.
Harvesting
After the trichomes mature but are still clear and milky, it is time for harvesting. The THCA levels are highest at this point. The cannabis plants are then trimmed from the roots, and the buds are separated from the plant.
Curing
The harvested flowers are then dried by air drying, machine drying, or freeze drying to reduce excess moisture. Finally, the dried buds are kept in sealed air-tight containers for weeks to cure. This process helps in enhancing the flavor and potency of the flower.
This process provides you with potent THCA flowers with high levels of THCA. However, to activate its psychoactive effects, a process of decarboxylation is needed to be done. Decarboxylation is a chemical reaction in which THCA is converted to THC after being exposed to heat.
When THCA is used for smoking or vaping, the cannabis is heated. The THCA compound then loses a carboxyl group, or in other words, releases carbon dioxide and then turns to THC. It then binds to the cannabinoid receptor of the brain and produces the known high.
The Legalities of THCA
The legality of THCA varies highly based on both federal and state laws. Here is the legality status of THCA depending on forms and places:
Federal Laws
According to the 2018 Farm Bill, all cannabis products containing less than 0.3% THC are considered legal federally. Since THCA is naturally non-psychoactive and only turns into THC after decarboxylation, it comes under the gray area under federal regulations.
State Laws
In states where medicinal and recreational use of marijuana is legal, THCA is also considered legal. These states include Hawaii, Arizona, Alaska, etc. However, THCA products, including THCA hemp flower, remain illegal in Arkansas, Idaho, Minnesota, Oregon, and Rhode Island.
Method of Consumption
The method of consumption can also be responsible for the legality of THCA. While it is typically legal to consume THCA when it is raw, or unheated, THCA products that are intended to be smoked or vaped are illegal in certain states like Arkansas, and Oregon.
5 Surprising Benefits of THC-A Flower
THCA is still being studied for its effects and benefits. However, it still has many therapeutic benefits which have been recognized worldwide. Here are a few of those benefits:
Anti-inflammatory properties
THCA has been known to reduce inflammation in certain diseases and conditions like arthritis, sclerosis, etc. Moreover, it also regulates the immune system, which can help reduce inflammation.
Neuroprotection
THCA also helps reduce oxidative stress, which, in turn, protects the neurons. THCA is also known as a therapeutic agent for treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson's, Huntington's, etc.
Pain Relief
THCA interacts with pain receptors and blocks pain signals in the brain, which thus reduces pain sensitivity and provides relief. Moreover, it also helps relieve muscle spasms and cramps and is beneficial for chronic pain.
Anticonvulsant Properties
THCA has anticonvulsant properties, which means that it reduces the severity and frequency of seizures. It thus helps in controlling seizures during conditions like epilepsy, dravet syndrome, or other seizure disorders.
Anti Nausea
THCA blocks serotonin receptors in both the gut and brain, which thus helps in reducing nausea and vomiting. These nausea-reducing properties can be helpful during the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea, motion sickness, or nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
Popular THCA Flowers In The Market
The benefits of THCA can be found in various forms and flavors, among which is a THCA flower. It is usually consumed by smoking or vaping, which activates the THC. Here are some popular strains of THCA flower in the market:
Rainbow Runtz
This Indica strain called Rainbow Runtz has a complex flavor profile, which is sweet and fruity. The ‘rainbow’ in its name refers to the tropical fruit and candies. It is often described as berrylike and citrusy and has a sugary finish.
White Cherry Gelato
The white cherry gelato is a hybrid strain, which is a consumer favorite. It has a smooth and creamy flavor, which is mixed with the sweetness of cherry and hint of vanilla. It almost tastes like a dessert.
Nerds
Nerds is another hybrid strain whose flavor is just like its name suggests. This candy-like sweet flavor also has hints of tanginess and fruitiness. The flavor is inspired by the Nerds candy, which is a popular candy in the American market.
Candyland
Candyland, too, lives up to its name by providing a candy-like flavor profile. This sativa strain is mild and liked by all due to its sweet and tangy profile. Its sweet, sugary taste has a vibrant and uplifting flavor.
Jokerz
Jokerz is a hybrid strain with a unique flavor profile. Its complex flavors are a mix of both sweet and savory. It has an earthy base combined with a mix of berry and grape flavors. Its aftertaste feels slightly spicy and pungent.
Pre-Rolls and Other THCA Products
There are various kinds of THCA products, which all provide the same benefits, just with different methods. It can be beneficial for you, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are a few products for you to choose from:
THCA Pre-Rolls
THCA pre-rolls are ready-to-use smoke joints made from THCA flowers. They are convenient since they already come pre-rolled, so it saves you time rolling and filling your own joints. It is portable and can be enjoyed on the go.
Scorched Blend Gummies
The Scorched Blend Gummies come in two different packs, one with two gummies and the other one with 30. These are highly potent and come in three different flavors: pink lemonade, grape soda, and watermelon bubblegum.
THCA Crystalline
The THCA Crystalline is a highly purified form of THCA. It looks like white powder or crystals. The crystalline form is useful for people who use the vaporized form. This is also useful for precise dosing.
THCA Tinctures
THCA tinctures are liquid extracts that often come with droppers for precise dosing. They are consumed sublingually by placing a drop under the tongue. It is then absorbed for quicker effects.
Conclusion
Now, with these above pointers, you can go ahead and get yourself some THCA flowers. Its range of benefits, including neuroprotection and anti-inflammation, can all be helpful in the long run. However, you should always consult a healthcare professional before committing to THCA.
If you're really interested in trying out some THCA products, make sure you choose a website that provides high-quality products that are tested in third-party labs like Burn Hemp(earlier Fire Hemp). Their products are 100% lab-tested and federally legal, so you can easily get it without much thought. They prioritize your safety and, therefore, also provide lab test results on all their products.
Commonly Asked Questions About THCA Flower
Q1. Can THCA cause a high?
THCA is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis. Therefore, it does not cause a high like THC and other compounds. However, when THCA is heated or decarboxylated, it converts to THC thus causing psychoactive effects.
Q2. Will THCA show up on a drug test?
No, THCA will not show up on a standard drug test. But if the THCA is converted to THC while smoking or vaping, then it is possible for it to show up on a drug test. However, due to lower levels of THC, it will not stay in the system for a long time.
Q3. How Do I Store THCA Hemp Flowers Properly?
Store your THCA hemp flowers in an airtight container in a cool and dark place. Make sure to keep it away from humidity in order to preserve its potency. Also, keep it away from kids and pets.
Q4. Can I make edibles with THCA flowers?
Yes, you can make edibles with the use of THCA flowers through decarboxylation. You need to heat them to convert them to THC, then grind them into powder. You can then follow recipes and make them into gummies, brownies, etc.
Q5. How does THCA flower differ from CBD flower?
Although both THCA flower and CBD flower have been derived from the same plant, cannabis, they are very different from one another. While THCA flowers have high THCA levels and have a structure closer to THC, CBD flowers have very low THCA levels.