Delta 9 THCa is a naturally occurring phytocannabinoid in the cannabis plant. It is the acid variation of the famous cannabinoid D9 THC. Raw THCa is non-psychoactive. However, when heated, THCa converts to THC. This change is what delivers the intense and euphoric psychoactive effects of traditional cannabis. Harvested THCa flower is federally legal if the lab test proves it is below the 0.3% D9 THC limit. Even in recreational or illegal flower, THCa is the primary cannabinoid, and the D9 THC can range somewhere between 0.4% to 1.0%. For example, a strain with 20% THCa and 0.2% D9 THC in its harvested buds is federally legal and protected under the Farm Bill.
Yes, THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis and is responsible for producing the “high” or euphoric sensation typically associated with marijuana use. When consumed, THC interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nervous system, altering neurotransmitter release and resulting in changes to sensory perception, mood, and cognition. The intensity and duration of the high depend on factors such as the dose, method of consumption (smoking, vaping, edibles), and individual tolerance. While THC offers recreational effects, it also has potential therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, nausea reduction, and appetite stimulation, which are utilized in medical cannabis treatments.
In the USA, the legality of THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) depends on whether it is derived from hemp or marijuana. THCa derived from hemp containing less than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, THCa derived from marijuana, which contains higher levels of THC, is illegal federally and regulated by state laws. Some states have specific regulations that may restrict or allow THCa regardless of its source. It’s essential to check local and state laws, as they can vary significantly and are subject to change. Consulting legal resources or authorities can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information. Arete only sells products that comply with the 2018 Farm Bill’s specification of “containing less than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis”.
Botanically speaking, both “hemp” and “marijuana” are “cannabis sativa l”. They are the same plant, but there is a subtle legal difference between hemp and marijuana. Under the Agricultural Act of 2018, also known as the “2018 Farm Bill”, legal hemp is cannabis with no more than 0.3% Delta 9 THC on a dry weight basis. Cannabis with Delta 9 THC above 0.3% is illegal marijuana. For example, a strain testing at 25% THCa and 0.1% Delta 9 THC is still classified as legal hemp even though it would provide THC effects if consumed after heating.
The answer is, it depends.
The good news is, when you order from Arete Hemp you can do so with confidence. Why? Because we have partnered with an independent third-party lab to test all our hemp products. Also, all of our hemp products are Farm Bill compliant. You can check our Lab Reports page or the individual product pages also have their reports as images in the product gallery. When reviewing the Certificate of Analysis (COA), look for the Mass % column to see the detected cannabinoids in that test.
On the other hand, when you buy hemp products from somewhere else there might not be tests, their tests might not be authentic, or from an independent third-party lab. In other words, you’ll be taking an unnecessary chance.
The issue of quality and strength is one of the biggest concerns facing cannabis consumers because not all hemp is created equal. As a consumer, you’re taking an unnecessary risk when you purchase hemp products from less reputable brands and retailers. In the eyes of the law, it is your responsibility to research hemp products before you purchase and consume them. So when you order from Arete Hemp that research is as simple and easy as a couple of clicks.
In the world of cannabis, this is a foundational topic. THCa and THC are related but in key ways they are more different than they are the same.
THCa, short for Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid, is essentially the raw form of THC. It is found in fresh, unheated cannabis plants. The key property of raw THCa is that it won’t get you high. However, if you subject it to heat, like when you smoke it or bake it into brownies, THCa will undergo a transformation, shedding its acidic nature to become THC. THC, as many already know, is the compound that does trigger a psychoactive reaction in the body.
Ultimately, this means there are applications (e.g., health and wellness related treatments) where THCa is ideal because it’s not psychoactive, just as there are applications where THC is better suited because it does produce a euphoric effect. That is, THC will get you high, as will THCa if add heat (to transform it into THC).
Cannabinoids represent a diverse array of chemical compounds inherent to the Cannabis sativa plant, Most commonly known as just cannabis. These compounds engage with cannabinoid receptors dispersed throughout the body and brain, eliciting effects akin to those induced by the cannabis plant itself.
Cannabinoids can be categorized into three primary classes:
Phytocannabinoids – These compounds derive from the cannabis plant and encompass well-known substances like THC (Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Over a hundred distinct phytocannabinoids have been discovered, each manifesting unique interactions with the human body’s central nervous system.
Endocannabinoids – These naturally synthesized compounds within the body play a pivotal role in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Examples include anandamide and 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG). They serve as intercellular messengers regulating critical functions such as mood, memory, sleep, and appetite.
Synthetic cannabinoids – These artificially produced substances are engineered to replicate the effects of natural cannabinoids. While often employed in research and medical contexts, they also present risks of abuse and adverse reactions.
Cannabinoids exert their influence by binding to cannabinoid receptors distributed across the central nervous system and other bodily systems. The predominant receptor types are CB1 and CB2. Cannabinoids’ effects can vary based on the specific receptors engaged and the neural circuits activated. For instance, cannabinoids may impact memory, cognition, mood, pain perception, and appetite.
Beyond THC and CBD, cannabinoids like CBG (cannabigerol), CBC (cannabichromene), and CBN (cannabinol) also contribute to cannabis’ overall effects. Many believe cannabinoids have potential for therapeutic applications across various medical conditions. However, at this time, further formal scientific investigation is warranted to prove or refute the reputation that proceeds cannabinoids.
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