Does THCa Turn Into Delta 9 When Smoked?

Does THCa turn into Delta 9 when smoked? This is an excellent query for anybody curious about the cannabis industry. Numerous substances and cannabinoids contribute to the plant’s array of effects. There are two types of THC that are widely known: THCa and Delta-9 THC. If you’re curious about the transformation of THCa into Delta-9 THC when smoked, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will explore this intriguing process and shed light on some critical aspects of THCa and Delta-9 THC.

Table of Contents:

• Key Takeaways
• What Is THCa?
• What Is Delta-9 THC?
• Does THCa Turn Into Delta-9 When Smoked?
• How Does Decarboxylation Work?
• Does Temperature Affect THCa Conversion?
• The Efficiency of Smoking to Convert THCa to Delta-9 THC
• Does Smoking THCa Get You High?
• What Are The Effects Of A THCa High?
• Is THCa Stronger Than Delta-9?
• What Is A High THCa Percentage?
• Where To Buy THCa and Delta-9 Products Online
• Final Thoughts
• Frequently Asked Questions about THCA
• Is THCa the Same as Delta-9 THC? 
• What Sets Delta-9 THC Apart from THCa? 
• Is THCa Illegal? 
• Will THCa Make You Fail a Drug Test?

Key Takeaways

• When cannabis plants are raw, THCa, the acidic precursor to Delta-9 THC, is present.
• It is produced by decarboxylation of THCa into delta-9 THC.
• To effectively experience the psychoactive effects of Delta-9 THC and decarboxylate THCa, smoke.
• THCa does not get you high, but it may have potential benefits.
• The potency of THCa and Delta-9 THC can vary, and their effects differ.

What Is THCa?

Cannabis plants produce Delta-9 THC from Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid or THCa. It starts as CBGA (cannabigerolic acid), which can convert into one of three acidic precursors, with THCa being one of them. THCa must go through a process called decarboxylation, which is brought on by heat, in order to become Delta-9 THC and activate its psychoactive qualities. However, on its own, THCa is non-intoxicating and non-psychoactive. THCa has many potential benefits but still requires further studies and research. The FDA has also not approved of any THCa products. Decarboxylation is essential to unlocking THCa’s psychoactive potential and transforming it into Delta-9 THC. 

THCa serves as the inactive version of THC and, if consumed in its raw form, does not produce a high. It’s only through the decarboxylation process that THCa becomes psychoactive and transitions into Delta-9 THC.

What Is Delta-9 THC?

The most prevalent primary cannabinoid in cannabis plants, delta-9 THC, is the primary form of THC most people seek while seeking a high. Interestingly, delta-9 THC would not exist in a vacuum in the absence of THCa, as was previously mentioned.

Without decarboxylation, which happens when heat is applied, THCa cannot be transformed into Delta-9 THC. For this reason, if any strain of cannabis you buy at your neighborhood dispensary says it contains X amount of THC, it is referring to the THCa content because it is still a raw cannabis flower and has not had a chance to convert into Delta-9 THC.

Delta-9-THC is also very intoxicating and psychoactive. It gives you a high that can be both cerebral and body-oriented, though the exact strain you use will determine how different the high feels. For instance, users of Indica dominant strains typically experience a more sedative body high, whereas users of Sativa dominant strains report experiencing more of a creative head high.

Does THCa Turn Into Delta-9 When Smoked?

Yes, it is possible to convert THCA to Delta-9 THC by decarboxylation, which is usually accomplished with heat. Smoking THCa indeed produces Delta-9 THC. Smoking is one of the most efficient methods for achieving this transformation. When you light up a joint or use a vaporizer to smoke cannabis, the heat generated during combustion or vaporization triggers the decarboxylation process.

As the THCa-rich cannabis material is heated, the carboxyl group is removed from THCa molecules, leaving behind the psychoactive Delta-9 THC. This is why smoking cannabis is associated with the classic euphoric and psychoactive effects.

How Does Decarboxylation Work?

Decarboxylation is a crucial process for altering the chemical structure of cannabinoid compounds found in cannabis and hemp plants. When these cannabinoids are first extracted, they have an extra carboxyl group or ring joined to their molecular chain within the trichomes. This chemical configuration prevents them from binding effectively to specific cannabinoid receptors responsible for inducing the sensation of being high. To be more precise, THCa cannot bind to CB1 receptors in its unprocessed form, which prevents it from having psychoactive effects. 

In the same way as Delta-9 THC, THCa is decarboxylated, which removes the extra carboxyl ring from the molecule. 

The delta-9 THC produced by cannabis consumption is effectively bound to the CB1 receptors due to this alteration. Heat is the key factor in initiating this chemical conversion, and various methods, such as smoking, vaping, cooking, and baking, can achieve decarboxylation. While a small degree of decarboxylation occurs during the curing process after cannabis drying, it is insufficient to produce significant psychoactive effects. Ultimately, applying heat is the catalyst that turns THCa into Delta-9 THC.

Does Temperature Affect THCa Conversion?

Yes, temperature has an impact on the conversion rate of THCa to Delta-9 THC. Heat alone, or at least a certain degree of heat, is necessary for this conversion process to take place. The ideal temperature range for efficient THCa conversion into Delta-9 THC falls between 220 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit (104 and 121 degrees Celsius). Within this range, decarboxylation occurs most effectively.

The main issue here is that too high of a temperature will cause the Delta-9 THC to degrade and eventually vanish, while too low of a temperature will result in very little THCa being converted into Delta-9 THC. This preserves many other advantageous terpenes and cannabinoids while transforming THCa into Delta-9 THC.

An ideal temperature range for cannabis flowers to undergo decarboxylation is between 60 and 80 degrees Celsius. It is interesting to note that temperatures of at least 200 degrees Fahrenheit are necessary for efficient decarboxylation, but it is essential to keep in mind that the tip of a joint burns at temperatures above 1000 degrees, which can cause problems with conversion efficiency, which we will cover in a moment.

The Efficiency of Smoking to Convert THCa to Delta-9 THC

As previously noted, temperature does play a part in this process; also, keep in mind that a low and gradual method often works best. While it is not always perfect, smoking should transform the majority of THCa into Delta-9 THC.

There is some evidence that between 10% and 40% of THCa does not become Delta-9 THC when smoking a joint, but further research is needed. A potential issue with joint smoking is that not all of the THCa will be adequately converted to Delta-9 THC by heat exposure.

Approximately 88% of THCa is converted into Delta-9 THC by the decarboxylation process alone, though smoking a joint might result in a slightly lower conversion rate. Additionally, remember that while the tip of the joint burns at temperatures exceeding 1000 degrees, effective decarboxylation occurs at or above 250 degrees.

It is difficult to pinpoint precisely how much THCa is lost in this process, but some of it is converted into Delta-9 THC. The end result is that a significant portion of that Delta-9 THC was lost owing to degradation; high temperatures caused Delta-9 THC to degrade, essentially making it disappear and having no effect on you.

Does Smoking THCa Get You High?

Yes, smoking THCa will cause it to decarboxylate, which in turn will transform it into THC. As mentioned earlier, Delta-9 THCa is a non-psychoactive precursor to THCa. In its raw form, THCa lacks the psychoactive properties that Delta-9 THC possesses. This means that if you were to smoke raw cannabis or a product rich in THCa without decarboxylation, you could experience the potential effects typically associated with cannabis use.

What Are The Effects Of A THCa High?

Consuming raw THCa does not induce a high, but when smoked, it undergoes conversion into Delta-9 THC. There can be a cerebral and physical high from smoking delta-9 THC.

The cerebral high, or head high, can result in feelings of creativity, increased sociability, and many other effects, which are often associated with THC. Interestingly, there can be differences in the kind of high felt between the Indica and Sativa strains. Indica strains are linked to a more calm and sedative head high, whereas Sativa strains are more likely to induce an energetic and chatty head high. Sativa strains tend to be more stimulating than indica strains, which are recognized for their calming effects. This distinction leads to the common belief that Sativa strains are better suited for daytime use due to their stimulating head high, while Indica strains are often preferred for nighttime.

Overall, the THCA high can be differentiated by the strain of the flower chosen. While all these effects reported still need to be studied further, we are legally not able to mention any health claims related to them.

Is THCa Stronger Than Delta-9?

No, it is not considered stronger. Which is more potent, delta-9 or THC? When drawing a comparison between the two, this is a typical question. THCa and Delta-9 THC are not necessarily stronger or weaker than each other; rather, they offer different effects and experiences. The intended result and personal preferences determine how strong these cannabinoids are perceived to be.

Strong potential effects are commonly associated with delta-9 THC. On the other hand, THCa does not have the same intoxicating effects because it is not considered psychoactive when used raw. However, THCa is believed to have therapeutic potential, particularly for its reported beneficial properties; much more studies are needed to confirm this and the beneficial effects are not guaranteed. Please note that the FDA has not approved of Delta 9 or THCA.

What Is A High THCa Percentage?

A high THCa percentage in a cannabis product indicates that a significant portion of the cannabinoid content is in its raw, non-psychoactive form. For those who want to experience THCa’s potential benefits without being intoxicated like they would with Delta-9 THC, this may be appealing.

THCa percentages in cannabis flower or products can vary widely, with some strains containing as much as 30% THCa or more. Keep in mind that the actual effects you experience will depend on how the THCa is consumed and whether it undergoes decarboxylation.

Where To Buy THCa and Delta-9 Products Online

If the thought of investigating THCa and Delta-9 THC products excites you, the ease of internet shopping has made it possible to obtain a wide range of cannabis products more easily than in the past. Reputable online dispensaries, such as CannaAid, provide a comprehensive selection of cannabis products like THCA flower, THCA Diamonds, and THCA disposable vapes that cater to a variety of preferences and needs. Whether you’re interested in cannabis flowers, concentrates, edibles, or other derivatives, these online retailers offer a wealth of options to choose from.

However, it’s imperative to exercise due diligence when purchasing cannabis products online. With the growing popularity of this industry, numerous vendors have emerged, and not all may adhere to the legal regulations in your specific region. To ensure a safe and satisfying experience, make it a priority to research and identify trusted sources like CannaAid that have a reputation for quality and compliance with local laws.

Prioritizing safety and quality is paramount when selecting your cannabis products. Reputable online dispensaries, like CannaAid, often provide detailed product information, including lab testing results that verify the purity and potency of their offerings. Customers are guaranteed to obtain the intended effects from their THCa and Delta-9 THC products thanks to this transparency, which also enables them to make educated decisions.

Therefore, when seeking THCa and Delta-9 THC products online, exploring established and reputable retailers like CannaAid can enhance your cannabis journey. These platforms offer a wide range of options while adhering to legal regulations and prioritizing product quality and safety. By making informed choices and selecting trusted sources, you can enjoy the benefits of THCa and Delta-9 THC with confidence and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

When smoked, THCa, the non-psychoactive precursor to Delta-9 THC, does become psychoactive. The process of decarboxylation, which is heated, is what causes this alteration. Smoking cannabis is an efficient way to achieve this conversion, resulting in the classic potential effects associated with Delta-9 THC.

While THCa itself does not produce a “high,” it offers potential therapeutic benefits that some users find valuable. Individual preferences and desired effects determine whether THCa or Delta-9 THC should be used.

As you explore cannabis products, be sure to research and choose reputable sources to ensure quality and safety. Whether you’re seeking relief from specific conditions or looking for a recreational experience, understanding the role of THCa products and Delta-9 THC can help you make informed choices in your cannabis journey.

Frequently Asked Questions about THCA

Is THCa the Same as Delta-9 THC? 

No, Delta-9 THC and THCa are not the same; however, the former undergoes a process called decarboxylation to become the latter.

What Sets Delta-9 THC Apart from THCa? 

The main distinction between the two is that whereas THCa lacks psychoactivity and intoxication, Delta-9 THC does.

Is THCa Illegal? 

Yes, the 2018 Farm Bill, a landmark piece of legislation, established the legal framework for the cultivation and distribution of hemp-derived products, including THCa. According to the provisions outlined in the bill, THCa is considered legal when sourced from hemp, provided that it contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. This legal threshold for Delta-9 THC content is crucial, as it distinguishes hemp-derived THCa from marijuana, which typically has higher levels of Delta-9 THC and remains subject to different regulatory standards.

State laws within the United States may vary depending on THCa’s legal status, although federal law establishes a baseline. State laws regarding the production, sale, possession, and use of THCa and other hemp-derived products can differ significantly. You should check the regulations and guidelines specific to your state to ensure compliance.

Overall, the 2018 Farm Bill provides a federal framework for the legality of THCa when derived from hemp with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. However, because state laws can vary, it’s essential to stay informed about the legal status of THCa in your particular jurisdiction to ensure that you are in compliance with both federal and state regulations.

Will THCa Make You Fail a Drug Test?

 Yes, THCa will probably make you fail a drug test because of the way the human body metabolizes it.