What is THCa?

THCa, or tetrahydrocannabinol acid, is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It’s the precursor to THC, the compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana. THCa hemp looks, smells, tastes, and feels like marijuana, but it’s 100% federally lawful. 

In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about THCa, including its chemistry, psychoactive effects, legal status, dosing, and potential benefits. If you’re curious about THCa and its effects, you’ve come to the right place. 

How is THCa Hemp Different from THC?

THCa is typically found in the raw, unheated cannabis plant. While THCa is not psychoactive in its raw state, it converts to THC through a process called decarboxylation when smoked or heated. Essentially, you can’t get THC without first having THCa! 

How Does THCa Make You Feel?

THCa does not produce the intoxicating effects associated with THC until it’s heated or smoked. Once heated, THCa is extremely psychoactive, offering the same high you’d get from top-quality marijuana. 

How to Dose THCa for Beginners and Seasoned Users

Since THCa converts to THC when heated, it will get you high. The right dosage depends on factors like tolerance, weight, experience, and desired effects. Beginners should start with small doses to gauge sensitivity and increase gradually. Seasoned users with higher tolerance may need larger amounts. Always be mindful of the gradual onset of psychoactive effects. 

What Are the Benefits of THCa?

Research on THCa is still in its early stages. Some users report relief from mild pain, stress, and occasional sleeplessness. However, more research is needed to fully understand and validate these potential benefits. 

Is THCa Legal?

Yes, THCa is 100% federally lawful. The 2018 Farm Bill authorized hemp production and removed hemp and hemp seeds from the DEA list of Controlled Substances. Consequently, hemp-derived THCa, containing less than 0.3% THC, is legal. However, state laws vary, so check your local regulations regarding THCa-rich hemp products. 

Does THCa Show Up on a Drug Test?

THCa can show up on drug tests, unlike CBD. The detection depends on the type of test and the specific product used. Factors such as the type of cannabinoid, method of consumption, frequency of use, metabolism, body fat, and hydration levels influence how long cannabinoids stay in your system. Typically, cannabinoids linger in saliva for up to 24 hours, one to two days in the bloodstream, three to 30 days in urine, and up to 90 days in hair. Individual cases may vary. 

Our Growers

All Haute Sauce flower is sourced from farmers who don’t use pesticides and have decades of experience cultivating cannabis. Growing high-quality cannabis requires skill, science, patience, and love, setting Haute Sauce flower apart from factory-farmed products. Our growers have proprietary varieties developed over years, offering a noticeable difference in quality.