THCA and THC: What’s the Difference?

THCA, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is a cannabis compound that is beginning to demonstrate immense therapeutic potential despite the infancy of its research. Here’s a quick overview of the difference between THCA and THC.

You’ve heard of THC, and while they may sound similar, THCA actually has very different properties. Unlike THC, THCA is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in raw and live cannabis. As the plant dries, THCA slowly converts to THC. Heat expedites this conversion in a process known as decarboxylation, a fancy word that describes what happens when you smoke or vaporize flower.