Category: CBD

CBD or THCA? Which one should I get? They may come from the same plant, but their differences differ. Today, we’ll know more about their nature, how they interact with your body, their potential therapeutic benefits, and more. Unlock the science behind these two fascinating compounds to determine which works for your needs. Your next best decision for natural wellness could be just a read away!

Key Takeaways 

• CBD is non-psychoactive, while THCA converts to Delta 9 THC when heated, producing psychoactive effects.
• CBD is stable and doesn’t convert to other cannabinoids, but THCA transforms into THC when exposed to heat.
• THCA shows potential for reducing nausea, pain, and inflammation, while CBD may help with anxiety, inflammation, and epilepsy. 
• THCA and CBD  interact differently with the endocannabinoid system, affecting how they influence the body.
• CBD is widely legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, while THCA’s legal status remains more complex due to its potential to become Delta 9 THC.

What is CBD?  

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of over 100 active cannabinoids identified in cannabis plants. It is the second most prevalent active ingredient in cannabis, next to Delta 9 THC. This cannabis compound is primarily derived from hemp, a variety of Cannabis Sativa grown mainly for its high levels of CBD.    

This cannabinoid is a non-psychoactive compound, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with popular cannabinoids. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates physiological processes such as breathing, eating, heart rate, and emotional processing. 

What is THCA? 

THCA, or Tetracannabinolic acid, is the precursor to Delta 9 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It is abundantly present in raw, unheated cannabis plants, especially in fresh cannabis buds. When exposed to heat (a process called decarboxylation), THCA converts to Delta 9 THC. This conversion occurs when cannabis is smoked, vaporized, or cooked, which produces psychoactive effects. 

Find out more about THCA’s potency, therapeutic potential, legal status, and more. 

CBD vs THCA: Molecular Structure

The most fundamental difference between CBD and THCA lies in their molecular structure. CBD is a specific cannabinoid, while THCA is the acidic parent to Delta 9 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). 

Due to their different molecular structures, CBD and THCA interact differently with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This means that the arrangement of atoms in these compounds is distinct, leading to different properties and effects on the human body.

The ECS is responsible for basic human functions like learning, mood regulation, breathing, and more.  CBD doesn’t directly bind to cannabinoid receptors, while THCA (and its converted form, Delta 9 THC) can. This means that each cannabinoid plays a different role in influencing our body’s functions. 

• The chemical formula of CBD (Cannabidiol) is C21H30O2. In detail, the formula indicates that the CBD molecule contains 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms.
• The chemical formula of THCA is C22H30O4. Each molecule of THCA contains 22 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 4 oxygen atoms. 

Conversion and Stability

A crucial difference lies in their stability and potential for conversion. CBD’s molecular build is stable and does not convert to other cannabinoids when exposed to heat. Conversely, THCA readily converts to Delta 9 THC when exposed to heat (decarboxylation), which occurs during smoking, vaping, or cooking.

Psychoactive Effects

One of the most significant differences between CBD and THCA lies in their psychoactive properties. CBD does not cause psychoactive effects and does not alter a person’s state of mind when used. THCA, in its natural state, is non-psychoactive too. 

However, when heated (through smoking, vaping, or cooking), THCA converts to Delta 9 THC, which does produce psychoactive effects. The consumption method is important in their difference as both compounds are non-psychoactive until heat alters THCA’s molecules and turns psychoactive. 

The different molecular builds of each cannabinoid determine the extent to which it can interact with the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS). 

CBD may promote a sense of relaxation and calmness without causing intoxication. Many users report feeling more at ease and less anxious after taking CBD. Some people experience a mild improvement in mood, describing it as a subtle sense of well-being or contentment. 

In its raw, unheated form, THCA does not produce psychoactive effects. While research is limited, some users feel certain potential therapeutic benefits from consuming raw THCA, such as reduced inflammation, nausea, and pain. Others report a mild increase in appetite when consuming THCA.

Interaction with the Body

The notable difference between CBD and THCA is how these compounds affect the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates daily body functions like walking, thinking, digestion, and more. 

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, particularly with CB1 and CB2 receptors.THCA’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system is less understood, but it’s believed to have different mechanisms of action compared to CBD.

CBD vs THCA: Therapeutic Benefits

Potential CBD Benefits

• It may  help with anxiety and depression
• Potential for pain relief and reducing inflammation
• Possible neuroprotective effects
• This cannabinoid may aid in treating epilepsy and seizure disorders

Potential THCA Benefits

• Potential anti-inflammatory effects
• Possible neuroprotective properties
• This compound may support healthy weight management
• Potential for reducing nausea and vomiting

Potential Side Effects

CBD

• Fatigue – CBD may cause drowsiness or fatigue in some users.

• Changes in Appetite – Some people experience changes in appetite, either increased or decreased.

• Diarrhea – Gastrointestinal discomfort, including diarrhea, has been reported.

• Dry Mouth – CBD can cause a reduction in saliva production, leading to dry mouth.

• Interactions with Medications – CBD can interact with various medications, particularly those metabolized by the liver.

• Liver Function – High doses of CBD may affect liver enzyme levels, potentially impacting liver function.

• Blood Pressure Changes – CBD may cause a temporary drop in blood pressure.

• Nausea – Some users report feeling nauseous after taking CBD.

• Mood Changes – While CBD is often used to manage anxiety, some users report mood changes.

 

THCA

• Nausea – Some users report feeling nauseous when consuming THCA.

• Upset Stomach – Gastrointestinal discomfort has been reported.

• Skin Reactions – THCA can cause itching and rashes in some individuals.

• Respiratory Symptoms – Some users may experience respiratory issues.

• Medication Interactions – THCA can interact with prescription medications, which could lead to serious side effects.

• Anxiety – In some cases, THCA consumption may lead to increased anxiety.

• Sleepiness – THCA may cause drowsiness in some users.
• Increased Appetite – Some people experience an increase in appetite when consuming THCA.

Pexels Photo by Jave Lr

CBD vs THCA: Natural vs Synthetic

CBD and THCA are naturally occurring cannabinoids in cannabis, originally thought to be produced by variations of the same gene but later discovered to come from separate, related genes. Both cannabinoids derive from the precursor cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), which can synthesize into CBD or THCA based on the enzyme present in the plant.

Natural CBD and THCA, extracted directly from hemp or cannabis, retain a full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, potentially creating an “entourage effect” that enhances their benefits. They are popular in wellness products for those seeking minimally processed, plant-based options. 

In contrast, there are synthetic CBD and THCA products that are lab-made to provide consistent concentrations. These are useful in pharmaceuticals where precise dosing is essential, though they often lack the entourage effect and are mainly found in clinical rather than consumer markets.

CBD vs THCA: Legal?

CBD Legality

CBD derived from hemp (cannabis plants containing less than 0.3% THC) was federally legalized in the United States with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. This law removed hemp from the federal Controlled Substances Act, effectively legalizing CBD if it comes from hemp.

While CBD is federally legal, state regulations can vary. Most states, by default, align with federal law, but some have specific restrictions or regulations.

The FDA has approved one CBD-based drug, Epidiolex, for treating certain types of epilepsy. However, the FDA has not approved CBD in food or dietary supplements. CBD legality varies internationally. Many countries have legalized CBD products, while others maintain strict prohibitions.

THCA Legality

THCA derived from hemp (cannabis with less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC) is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. This interpretation is accepted is widely accepted by the majority.

The legal status of THCA is more complex and somewhat ambiguous. While THCA itself is not explicitly listed as a controlled substance, its potential to convert to Delta 9 THC (which is federally illegal) complicates its status.

THCA legality varies significantly by state. Some states have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use, effectively legalizing THCA. THCA may be illegal or in a legal gray area in other states.

Key Differences in Legality

• Clarity of Legal Status – CBD’s legal status is generally clearer than THCA’s, especially when derived from hemp.

• Federal Acceptance – CBD from hemp is federally legal, while THCA’s federal status is more ambiguous.

• State Variations – While both CBD and THCA face varying state regulations, THCA is more likely to be restricted or prohibited in states where cannabis is not legal.

• International Recognition – CBD has gained legal acceptance in many countries, while THCA remains largely unregulated or illegal internationally.

• Potential for Conversion – THCA’s ability to convert to THC when heated complicates its legal status, whereas CBD does not have this issue.

• Product Availability – CBD products are widely available in many states, while THCA products are typically limited to states with legal cannabis markets.

Final Thoughts

CBD and THCA offer unique properties and potential benefits, but they serve different purposes in cannabinoids. CBD is widely known for its therapeutic effects without the psychoactive “high.” At the same time, THCA, in its raw form, remains non-psychoactive but can convert to Delta 9 THC when heated, introducing psychoactive effects. 

Understanding the differences in molecular structure, interaction with the body, and legality can help consumers make informed choices based on their needs, preferences, and location. Whether you’re exploring CBD for wellness or THCA for its potential health benefits, staying informed and choosing quality products will take you a long way ahead. 

(Disclaimer reminder: This article is not medical advice. It is based on anecdotal user experience alone. If you are thinking about incorporating cannabis (delta-8 THC, delta-9 THC, CBD, etc) into your medicinal routine, please consult a healthcare professional. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.)

Disclaimer: This article reflects the laws of the United States at the time it was written. Because cannabis laws in the United States laws are subject to change at any time, please make sure that you are always staying up to date on your federal, state, and local county’s cannabis laws. Additionally, we are NOT encouraging anyone to break the law––we are simply showing people ways to legally and discreetly bring their cannabis products along with them on their travels so that they may have access to those products when they reach their intended destination.