Why do tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and other cannabinoids trend? It’s no surprise, thanks to the ever-growing number of cannabis consumers. Currently, about 219 million folks use this plant worldwide (for recreation or medicine).
It’s increasingly becoming difficult to avoid cannabis discourse. As this herb penetrates diverse spheres, much interest hinges on its cannabinoids. These chemical compounds influence a patient’s experience with cannabis.
THCA is among the most prevalent cannabinoids in the plant. It’s a naturally occurring compound alongside CBD and THC. These cannabinoids interact with specific receptors in the body. They regulate how cells communicate.
This crucial role makes cannabinoids a subject of growing interest and research. Scientific exploration currently targets their interplay with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Being part of this unfolding equips your practice with insightful perspectives.
Want to up your game and enhance your patients’ experience? Start by understanding the dynamics of THCA. Is it psychoactive? Does it carry any therapeutic potential? What about its legality?
Discover the science behind THCA, its benefits, risks, and how it differs from THC.
What is THCA?
Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. It’s a true testament to the rich potential and diversity of cannabinoids. While THC often steals the limelight, THCA is gaining the spotlight in wellness.
The cannabis plant boasts over 100 cannabinoids, some more abundant than others. While their molecular structure may differ, they all influence consumption effects.
Once a cannabis plant matures and develops buds, it forms terpenes and cannabinoids. Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) is the first cannabinoid to develop.
It later breaks down to THCA and Cannabidiolic acid (CBDA). From there, other cannabinoids like THC and CBD begin to take shape.
How does THCA differ from THC? Think of them as two siblings with similar features but distinct properties. Their unique characteristics affect a patient’s cannabis experience differently. THCA is the acidic precursor to THC. In other words, there would be no THC without it.
THCA naturally occurs in raw cannabis plants. It’s not intoxicating like THC when ingested. Exposing it to heat (cooking, vaping, smoking) converts it into psychoactive THC with a “high.” Put simply, THCA is the inactive, raw version of THC.
The science behind THCA
THCA has a rather complex chemical structure different from THC. It features an extra molecular carboxyl ring. This ring prevents it from binding to the brain receptors that cause the “high” in patients. The unique structure renders THCA non-psychoactive when raw.
Research journals say THCA’s biosynthesis occurs in the trichomes of cannabis.¹ These tiny hair-like structures are also the point of cannabinoid accumulation. They appear on the surface of cannabis flowers and leaves.
What factors influence THCA levels in cannabis strains? Generally, cannabinoid composition may vary due to:
- Genetics. Different strains may have varying genetic predispositions for THCA Genetic heritage could influence the genetic makeup of a strain. Some enthusiasts believe female varieties have more THCA than male ones.
- Cultivation conditions. Factors like temperature, light, and nutrients can determine THCA They affect how a plant matures and may influence its chemical composition.
- Plant maturity. THCA levels typically increase as the cannabis plant nears maturity. This stage triggers a progressive change in the plant’s chemical composition.
- Harvesting. The harvesting stage of cannabis can affect THCA content if not optimal. Harvesting too early or too late may produce suboptimal cannabinoid levels.
- Cannabis processing. The final processing of cannabis may impact THCA For instance, drying and curing can promote some decarboxylation of THCA. The final product may contain less THCA.
How does THCA relate to other cannabinoids? It comes from CBGA, also called the “mother of all cannabinoids.” CBGA produces THCA and CBDA, from which we get THC and CBD. Like most other cannabinoids, THCA first exists in acidic form.
Health benefits of THCA
THCA’s health benefits stem from its potential to promote holistic wellness. Below is a roundup of its advantages currently under investigation.
Anti-inflammatory properties
THCA shows significant potential in addressing inflammation. A recent study highlights its anti-inflammatory activity² in inflammatory bowel diseases. The research observes that THCA interacts with other compounds in cannabis extracts.
It enhances the effects of cannabis extracts in tackling inflammatory agents. Scientists recommend THCA for patients with non-psychoactive preferences. In this particular treatment, it proved more effective than CBD. It may relieve symptoms of arthritis and seizures.
Potential neuroprotective effects
Neurological disorders can ultimately impair the lives of your patients. But what if you could explore the healing potential of THCA? Preliminary research shows this cannabinoid may have neuroprotective effects.
Some studies show that THCA treatments combat cell death in cortical neurons.³ These nerve cells occur in the cerebral cortex. Suppressing neuronal cell death may prolong neuroprotection. Patients with Alzheimer’s disease may benefit from memory optimisation.
Antioxidant properties
THCA has the potential to treat oxidation-related diseases. Some research reviews say it exhibits antioxidant activity.⁴ It could scavenge free radicals and combat oxidative stress. This intervention promotes overall well-being in patients.
In other words, THCA hinders the oxidation process which damages cell membranes. It also reduces metal ions, which can become toxic in large amounts. More clinical trials are underway to explore the bioactive properties of THCA.
Other therapeutic benefits and ongoing research
THCA boasts a dynamic therapeutic potential amid ongoing research. Some animal studies expound on its antiemetic and anti-nausea properties.⁵ The researchers conclude it could be a more potent alternative to THC. They recommend it for treating nausea and vomiting.
Scientists claim THCA may stimulate appetite in patients with cachexia and anorexia nervosa. This compound could also slow the rapid increase of cancerous cells. Ongoing research explores its potential to alleviate symptoms of:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Cachexia
- Seizures (even epilepsy)
THCA vs. THC: Understanding the difference
THC comes from THCA. You can always leverage the latter’s effects before getting to the former. What better way to maximise the benefits of cannabis for your patients?
How does THCA act as a biosynthetic precursor in cannabis plants? It decomposes to decarboxylate molecules when exposed to heat or light. This process removes the carboxyl group in THCA to form THC. The carboxyl group is responsible for THCA’s acidic nature.
Put simply, decarboxylation activates the psychoactive compounds in cannabis plants.
Besides heat, decarboxylation also happens over time during cannabis drying and curing. It makes THCA immediately available for absorption by the body.
Once THCA converts to THC, it triggers parts of the brain that respond to pleasure. This stimulation releases dopamine, a chemical that produces euphoria and relaxation. These intoxicating sensations may last up to three hours.
The importance of THCA in medical cannabis is widening. Its non-psychoactive properties could be a goldmine for medical practitioners. Why not consider incorporating it into your patients’ treatment regimen? Among other advantages, it could be beneficial for:
- Neuroprotection
- Anti-inflammation
- Antioxidation
Methods of consumption
How should your patients consume THCA to leverage its potency? Below are the three main ingestion methods to consider.
Raw cannabis consumption
Do your patients prefer a non-intoxicating approach to taking cannabis? Prescribe them raw cannabis flowers. This option preserves THCA in its non-decarboxylated form as the flowers are fresh. Raw THCA flowers exert potential medicinal effects without inducing a “high.”
Juicing and smoothies
Did you know patients can consume THCA through juices and smoothies? It’s an innovative and health-conscious way to integrate THCA into a patient’s routine. Adding the raw cannabis flower to beverages extracts its fresh cannabinoids.
This method has a direct THCA absorption into the body. It’s also more convenient and palatable.
THCA-infused products
Some patients are more dose-dependent. They prefer a more controlled and measured approach to cannabis consumption. Consider THCA-infused products for such patients. Tinctures, capsules, and topicals are an excellent start as you monitor patient response.
These products pass through rigorous extraction and processing to preserve THCA. Educate your patients on the ideal product and dose per their medical needs.
Tinctures can particularly blend well with morning coffee and smoothies. Topicals may leverage THCA’s anti-inflammation to ease pain on the skin. Capsules are ideal for precise dosing.
What are the challenges and considerations in preserving THCA content? This cannabinoid is highly susceptible to decarboxylation. It readily converts to THC in the presence of heat and light. This chemical instability poses storage intricacies.
Urge your patients to maintain optimal storage conditions to preserve THCA levels. The ideal space should be cooled, dark, and airtight.
THCA testing and analysis is also a critical consideration. Accurately measuring and monitoring THCA content requires specialised techniques. This need presents another layer of complexity and cost to THCA preservation.
Additionally, incorporating THCA into edible products can be tricky. A patient must be careful with temperature control during cooking. A slight error can activate and convert THCA to THC.
Legal and regulatory aspects
What’s the legal status of THCA in Australia? Medicinal cannabis is lawful in this country. Recreational cannabis remains illegal in all states and territories except the ACT.⁶
Currently, there are no explicit regulations around the prescription of THCA. Authorities neither classify it as illegal nor medicinal.
Australia tightly regulates the cannabis industry, especially around CBD and THC. Practitioners should check with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).⁷
The TGA evaluates and monitors products prescribed as therapeutic. It can qualify or disqualify your THCA recommendations per their protocols. TGA may be more lenient when accessing THCA for research purposes.
The circumstances of using THCA can easily convert it into THC. The latter forms the core of adult-use cannabis. This controversy could cause trouble with the law if not clarified to patients. It’s much safer to recommend THCA in products that don’t need cooking or heating.
Additionally, adhere to standard compliance for THCA-containing products during:
- Manufacturing
- Labelling
- Distribution
These protocols enforce product quality and safety.
Jurisdictions like the ACT are pacesetters in recreational cannabis legalisation. Its gradual decriminalisation shows promise for the future.
Evolving legislation in Australia could favour THCA down the line. Perhaps authorities will borrow a leaf from other nations with flexible legal structures. Moreover, the promising research around THCA might accelerate its national acceptance.
Risks and precautions
Does THCA consumption pose any risks? While THCA may have mild side effects, they’re rare. Some patients report:
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Increased heart rate
THCA could also interact with other medications. Encourage your patients to disclose any current treatments to avoid adverse reactions. Patients shouldn’t add THCA to their regimen without the guidance of an expert. Demonstrate to them how healthcare professionals can:
- Assess individual health. A professional evaluates the patient’s overall status to determine THCA’s
- Informed guidance. An expert offers personalised advice on dosage and consumption They can disclose potential risks per the patient’s health considerations.
- Monitoring and support. A healthcare professional monitors the patient’s THCA They’re best suited to provide support in case of any side effects.
Unpack the therapeutic benefits of THCA with PlantEd
The world’s attention continues to shift toward holistic wellness and natural remedies. THCA emerges as a potent contender in the cannabis landscape. It’s a precursor to THC with potential therapeutic benefits.
Current research shows that THCA could be an anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant. Some clinical trials also say it may be an effective neuroprotector. These studies are only preliminary yet prove the immense potential of THCA.
This milestone emphasises the need for further research on cannabinoids. THCA is less known, yet it has potential health benefits. How much more treasure lies in unharnessed cannabinoids?
Continued research allows practitioners to understand THCA’s risks and long-term effects fully. It’s crucial to developing safe and effective therapeutic applications. It also informs evidence-based regulations amidst evolving laws.
Ready to institute a balanced and informed approach to cannabis consumption? Work closely with PlantEd. Contact us today to explore our vast cannabinoid knowledge base.
References
- Supaart Sirikantaramas, Futoshi Taura, Yumi Tanaka, Yu Ishikawa, Satoshi Morimoto, Yukihiro Shoyama, Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid Synthase, the Enzyme Controlling Marijuana Psychoactivity, is Secreted into the Storage Cavity of the Glandular Trichomes, Plant and Cell Physiology, Volume 46, Issue 9, September 2005, Pages 1578–1582, https://doi.org/10.1093/pcp/pci166
- Nallathambi R, Mazuz M, Ion A, Selvaraj G, Weininger S, Fridlender M, Nasser A, Sagee O, Kumari P, Nemichenizer D, Mendelovitz M, Firstein N, Hanin O, Konikoff F, Kapulnik Y, Naftali T, Koltai H. Anti-Inflammatory Activity in Colon Models Is Derived from Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid That Interacts with Additional Compounds in Cannabis Extracts. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2017 July 1;2(1):167-182. doi: 10.1089/can.2017.0027. PMID: 29082314; PMCID: PMC5627671.
- Kim J, Choi P, Park YT, Kim T, Ham J, Kim JC. The Cannabinoids, CBDA and THCA, Rescue Memory Deficits and Reduce Amyloid-Beta and Tau Pathology in an Alzheimer's Disease-like Mouse Model. Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Apr 6;24(7):6827. doi: 10.3390/ijms24076827. PMID: 37047798; PMCID: PMC10095267.
- Andrzej L. Dawidowicz, Małgorzata Olszowy-Tomczyk, Rafał Typek, CBG, CBD, Δ9-THC, CBN, CBGA, CBDA and Δ9-THCA as antioxidant agents and their intervention abilities in antioxidant action, Fitoterapia, Volume 152, 2021, 104915, ISSN 0367-326X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fitote.2021.104915. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0367326X21000903)
- Rock EM, Kopstick RL, Limebeer CL, Parker LA. Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid reduces nausea-induced conditioned gaping in rats and vomiting in Suncus murinus. Br J Pharmacol. 2013 Oct;170(3):641-8. doi: 10.1111/bph.12316. PMID: 23889598; PMCID: PMC3792001.
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government. (2023). Cannabis home page [Internet]. ACT Government. Available from: https://www.act.gov.au/cannabis/home [Accessed: 2024-03-11]
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). (No date). Therapeutic Goods Administration website [Internet]. Australian Government. Available from: https://www.tga.gov.au/ [Accessed: 2024-03-11].