THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)
The acidic, non-psychoactive precursor to THC found in raw, unheated cannabis. Converted to THC through decarboxylation.
In Depth
THCA is the predominant form of THC in fresh cannabis. It does not produce psychoactive effects because it does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier or bind to CB1 receptors. However, THCA has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antiemetic properties in preclinical studies through non-CB1 mechanisms. Some patients consume raw cannabis juice to obtain THCA without psychoactivity. THCA is converted to THC at a ratio of approximately 0.877:1.
Related Terms
Further Reading
More in Chemistry
Decarboxylation
The chemical process by which a carboxyl group (COOH) is removed from a molecule, releasing CO₂. Converts inactive cannabinoid acids (THCA, CBDA) into their active forms (THC, CBD).
CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid)
The acidic precursor to CBD found in raw cannabis. Converted to CBD through decarboxylation.
Lipophilicity
The tendency of a molecule to dissolve in fats, oils, and non-polar solvents rather than water. Cannabinoids are highly lipophilic.