The SHOCKING difference between THC and THCa!

this video describes the differences between THC and THCa as well as how to cook with cannabis #medicalmarijuanapatient
the difference between them is shocking!
[1]: https://www.greenstate.com/explained/... ""
[2]: https://www.seattlemet.com/discover/t... ""
[3]: https://www.polerstuff.com/thca-vs-thc/ ""
[4]: https://burningdaily.com/blogs/learn/... ""
[5]: https://herb.co/learn/are-thc-and-thc... ""


1. **THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)**:
**Definition**: THCA is a non-psychoactive compound found in **raw cannabis**.
**Precursor to THC**: It serves as the precursor to THC. When exposed to heat or light, THCA converts into THC.
*Decarboxylation**: THCA undergoes a process called **decarboxylation* (removal of a carboxyl group) to become THC. This process is essential for unlocking the intoxicating properties of THC.
**Raw Cannabis**: THCA is most commonly found in **raw cannabis buds**.
**Non-Psychoactive**: Before decarboxylation, THCA does not have intoxicating effects for most people.
*Potential Benefits**: Studies suggest that THCA interacts with the endocannabinoid system and may have **neuroprotective properties**. It could be beneficial for brain health and metabolism, including conditions like **Huntington's disease* and other neurodegenerative diseases¹[1] ²[2].

2. **THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)**:
*Definition**: THC is the well-known **psychoactive compound* responsible for the "high" associated with marijuana use.
**Conversion from THCA**: With heat exposure, THCA is converted to THC. The two cannabinoids have an almost identical chemical structure, except for the dropped carboxylic acids.
**Intoxicating Effects**: THC binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain, leading to its psychoactive effects.
**Heat-Induced**: THC is formed when cannabis is **smoked, vaped, or heated**. Heat causes THCA to lose its carboxylic acid group, resulting in THC.
**Commonly Sought After**: Many cannabis consumers choose products based on THC content, but research continues to reveal that there's more to the picture than just THC¹[1] ²[2].

In summary, THCA is the raw, non-psychoactive form found in cannabis, while THC is the psychoactive compound that results from decarboxylation. Both cannabinoids play important roles in the complex interactions within the endocannabinoid system. Keep in mind that the therapeutic potential of these compounds is still an area of active research! 🌿🔬¹[1] ²[2] ³[3] ⁴[4] ⁵[5].

Source: Conversation with Bing, 4/28/2024
(1) THC vs THCA: airing out the smoke of confusion | GreenState. https://www.greenstate.com/explained/....
(2) What is THCA and How Does it Differ from THC? THCA Explained. https://www.seattlemet.com/discover/t....
(3) THCA vs. THC: Unveiling the Differences and Similarities. https://www.polerstuff.com/thca-vs-thc/.
(4) THC vs THCA: Understanding the Key Differences and Benefits. https://burningdaily.com/blogs/learn/....
(5) Applying The Heat: Are THC And THCA The Same? - Herb. https://herb.co/learn/are-thc-and-thc....