THCa (a form cannabis) is more readily available throughout the United States. Yet, it may affect your loved one’s health. To recognize emerging issues, you need to understand how cannabis is purchased, the risk it poses for consumers and its potential hazards. In this post we introduce THCa to you and discuss its relation to THC – Read this?
THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that is abundant in raw cannabis buds, and does not have psychoactive qualities when consumed in its unprocessed form. THCa, when heated up, is transformed into the psychoactive THC chemical. This version of the drug is more harmful. High doses can result in hallucinations, altered sensations or poor physical movement. THCa can be legally possessed in many U.S. States. Unregulated online products, however, are a danger due to the potential for contamination and unknowable potency. Hanley provides solutions to those who have used THCa in a way that has affected their health.
What is THCa?
THCa is an acronym for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid. It is a non-intoxicating chemical present in cannabis, and is the precursor of the well-known hallucinogenic chemical present in cannabis, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Cannabis plants in their original state produce THCa and not THC. THCa content is higher on fresh cannabis plants.
What Happens if THCa was heated or smoked
When THCa (which is produced by cannabis) undergoes decarboxylation or heating, it becomes THC. THCa undergoes a chemical change when it is decarboxylated (by smoking, vaping or cooking). THC gets quickly absorbed in the lungs after it is smoked, or when inhaled. Then, the THC travels through the body to reach the brain. Different factors can affect the effects from person to person, such as strain potency, dosage, individual sensitivity or dose.
THCa Is Legal for Use?
THCa, on the federal scale, is legal as long a delta-9 THC limit of 0.3% or less is achieved. The laws of each state may differ on how they view this cannabinoid. In certain jurisdictions hemp may be more widely available in comparison to THC. For those looking for cannabis’ euphoric qualities, this could offer a legal gap. Florida is the only state that has banned delta-9 THC in its medical marijuana laws. Therefore, there are no restrictions for consuming THCa from hemp. Texas’ cannabis policy is federal, which means THCa in compliance with Farm Bill laws are legal.
THCa side effects
THCa alone is not believed to have any psychoactive or intoxicating properties. THCa, whether consumed raw or in the form of gummies can be consumed without causing a psychoactive effect. But it could cause you to fail a drug-test if it is detected. THCa may not give you the THC high, but can have less pleasant side effects. You might experience nausea, indigestion, or upset stomach. There could also be allergic reactions that cause skin rashes and itching. THCa, however, poses an imminent threat due to the alteration of its properties. If you heat, cook, or vape the legal version, it will become the psychoactive THC.
Short-term Side Effects from Heating/Smoking:
Euphoria and relaxation
Perceptions are altered
Memory and cognition are impaired
Dry mouth with increased thirst
Bloodshot eyes
Increased Heart Rate
Anxiety paranoia
Smoking THCa Long-Term Side Effects
THC consumption, which is frequent and excessive, especially among teenagers, can have negative outcomes. THC abuse can turn into addiction and cause withdrawal symptoms. In the same way that smoking tobacco can affect lung health in a negative manner, smoking THC has a similar effect. It may cause respiratory disorders and chronic cough. THC may have a complicated relationship to mental health, but prolonged use or excessive THC in high potency can lead to mental health issues such as schizophrenia, psychosis and depression.
Hazards of THC Unregulated
THCa is available in raw food capsules. This can be proven by an analysis done by a third party lab that is accredited and included in a document. THCa unregulated from other sources poses several risks to its users. These products could be purchased online and include other substances.