Cannabis 101 By Jolin Zhou|11 May 2024

THCa vs Other Compounds: Which One is Right for You?

Topics in this article:
THCa

 

 

 

What is THCa? It is a well-known component of cannabis that possesses non-intoxicating properties, originating from raw and unheated cannabis plants. THCa cannabis is unique in the cannabinoid market because it’s non-intoxicating until heated, then it becomes highly psychoactive.

 

 

Now that we understand what THCa is, let’s explore how it differs from other cannabis compounds!

 

 

thca cannabis

 

 

 

THCa vs THC

 

 

 

Many people wonder, “which one is stronger?” THCa is considered less potent when compared to THC. However, once exposed to heat through smoking, vaping, dabbing, or cooking, it undergoes decarboxylation, removing a carboxyl ring and binding THC to CB1 receptors in our bodies. Only then does it transform into THC, known for its potent psychoactive effects.

 

 

So why do some people prefer THCa? The answer lies in its ability to offer unique control over their experience with its non-intoxicating properties in its natural state, only becoming psychoactive when heated. In addition, the strategic compliance efforts of THCa producers also ensure its legal availability, further enhancing its appeal to consumers.

 

 

 

THCa vs Delta-9 THC

 

 

 

Delta-9 THC forms from THCa through heating, in a process known as decarboxylation. Delta-9 THC is notable for its strong potency and intoxicating effects, which induce euphoria and alter senses—ideal for recreational use.

 

 

 

THCa vs Delta-8 THC

 

 

 

Compared to highly potent delta-9 THC, Delta-8 THC offers milder psychoactive and intoxication effects. Delta-8 THC is also a byproduct of THCa, albeit not through direct conversion. It is produced by chemically altering CBD or Delta-9 THC through an isomerization process.

 

 

Legally, Delta-8 THC occupies a gray area as it can be derived from CBD, but some states may not consider it as legal as it can also originate from Delta-9 THC. Meanwhile, THCa is mostly accessible and legal in most states.

 

 

 

THCa vs THCp

 

 

 

Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCp) is a newly discovered cannabis compound that has gained popularity since 2019 due to initial findings suggesting it is far more potent than THC. People can expect pronounced effects on the body compared to THCa, but it also comes with a stronger high effect that needs to be considered. Despite the hype, research on the medicinal effects of THCp remains lacking in long-term effects and continues to be of particular interest to researchers.

 

 

 

Discover Your Ideal Cannabis Experience

 

 

 

After exploring the differences between each cannabis compound, it all comes down to your purpose for consuming cannabis. If you seek a highly potent compound, then Delta-9 THC and the newly discovered THCp are the right choices, but watch out for the inconclusive long-term effects of THCp. For milder psychoactive and high effects, consider Delta-8 THC. Alternatively, if you must stay alert before activating THC effects at a convenient time, THCa is your best option among all described compounds.

 

 

To enhance your experience further, we recommend purchasing a compact and user-friendly device, and DabGo is the answer! As the first disposable dab pen ever, DabGo is the perfect companion for on-the-go cannabis consumption. Its easy-to-access ceramic bowl can hold various cannabis concentrates, making it ideal for exploring different cannabis variants. Additionally, the SegmHeatTM ceramic heating technology offers progressive heating control for a consistent and flavorful experience.

 

 

DabGo

 

 

 

Find the perfect cannabis variant that suits your needs effortlessly with DabGo!