The cannabis plant is abundant in over a hundred compounds known as cannabinoids. Each cannabinoid comes with its own benefits and potential. Two cannabinoids in particular, THCA and Delta 9 stand out due to their distinct effects and properties. While these cannabinoids share a close relationship, they behave quite differently in the human body.
Let’s take a closer look at how THCA and Delta-9 THC differ and which one could be the right fit for your needs.
Understanding THCA vs Delta 9
THCA and Delta 9 THC are derived from the same plant, but they have different effects and characteristics. In the following section, we will explain what THCA and Delta 9 are and how they affect your body.
What is THCA?
THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is the pure and unaltered version of the cannabinoid found in fresh cannabis flowers. THCA in its raw form is non-intoxicating, and it won’t get you ‘high’ as is often associated with cannabis. However, when raw cannabis is heated, it converts into THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is responsible for producing psychoactive effects.
It means that THCA doesn’t have psychoactive properties because it needs to be heated through smoking, vaping, or baking to transform into Delta-9 THC.
What is Delta 9?
Delta 9 THC is a primary psychoactive compound that gives cannabis its reputation for promoting euphoria, relaxation, and altered perception. Delta-9 THC works by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the brain. That’s the reason why Delta 9 may influence your mood, memory, and sensory perception.
But Delta-9 THC is not just about a euphoric high and a sense of calm; it also has a significant therapeutic potential.
THCA vs Delta 9 THC: What’s the difference?
You may already get a sense of where THCA and Delta-9 THC vary. One is non-intoxicating, and the other one gets you high. To get deeper into the discussion of the differences between these two cannabinoids, we need to start with their chemical structures.
Chemical Structure
The structure of the THCA compound consists of an extra carboxyl group (COOH), which makes a massive difference. It prevents THCA from binding to CB1 receptors in the brain, and that’s where Delta-9 THC has to bind to produce a euphoric high. This extra group in the structure of THCA falls off when it goes through the process of decarboxylation (heating) and transforms into Delta-9 THC.
Psychoactive Effects
The chemical structure of THCA prevents it from binding to the body’s CB1 and CB2 receptors. It means that THCA moves through your body without causing a high. On the other hand, Delta-9 THC has a strong binding affinity for these receptors and leads to feelings of euphoria and relaxation.
Therapeutic Effects
THCA in its original form has been studied for its potential to protect against neurological disorders and its anti-inflammatory properties. On the other hand, Delta-9 THC is known for reducing chronic pain and acting as a potent antioxidant to protect your brain cells.
Legal Implications
The legal status of THCA and Delta 9 THC varies based on their psychoactive potential. As THCA is a non-intoxicating compound in its natural state, it is considered legal or may encounter few legal restrictions in certain states. In contrast, Delta-9 is classified as a controlled substance under many jurisdictions due to its intoxicating effects.
Commercial Availability
Due to its non-psychoactive nature, THCA products are widely available in the form of capsules, tinctures, or edibles. When it comes to the availability of Delta-9 products, if you live in a state where marijuana is legal, then you may easily get Delta-9 THC products as well. You can find a wide range of Delta-9 products, including carts, edibles, disposable vapes, and tinctures.
You can also find a variety of THCA and Delta-9 products online. XLR8 Delta offers natural, hemp-derived THCA and Delta-9 products for sale. Our products are fully compliant with legal regulations to ensure safe and lawful access to these cannabinoids.
Consumers Experience
Consumers may experience different effects with THCA and Delta-9 THC. THCA can be a good option for individuals looking for the health benefits of cannabinoids without psychoactive effects. On the other hand, the potent intoxicating effects of Delta-9 may appeal to recreational users who want to enjoy the high along with the therapeutic benefits.
Safety And Research
THCA is still in its early stages of research, and more studies are required to understand the mechanism and therapeutic potential of this cannabinoid fully. On the other hand, Delta-9 THC has been extensively studied, and its effects are well documented, which provides a better understanding of its benefits and the risks associated with it.
THCA vs Delta 9: Comparing Their Potential Benefits
Benefits of THCA
THCA offers health benefits from cannabis without producing psychoactive effects. Some of the potential benefits of THCA include the following:
- It doesn’t cause a head high, which makes this compound appealing for individuals who want to focus or work without strong psychoactive effects.
- It may help relieve sore muscles and joints. (r)
- Early studies suggest it may also help with chronic pain management.
- It may have antioxidant and neuroprotective properties.
Benefits of Delta 9 THC
The potential benefits of Delta-9 may include the following.
- It’s a good choice for mood enhancement and recreational enjoyment.
- Medical patients may find it beneficial for chronic pain and appetite loss.
- Lower doses of Delta-9 THC have been shown to reduce anxiety and depression.
THCA vs Delta 9: How do you choose between THCA and Delta 9 THC?
Here’s a quick guide on how to choose between THCA and Delta-9 THC products.
Consider Your Needs And Preferences
If you are looking for the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without getting high, then THCA may be a good option for you. However, if you are seeking the psychoactive experience associated with cannabis, then Delta 9 may be the preferable option.
Methods of Consumption
THCA can be consumed through juicing, tinctures, or edibles. These methods allow you to ingest THCA while preserving the non-psychoactive properties of this cannabinoid. On the other hand, Delta-9 THC can be consumed via smoking, vaping, oil, or gummies. You need to consider what best aligns with your health needs and preferences.
Legal Status of Cannabis in Your Region
Before buying a product, you need to find out about the cannabis laws in your region. You may have easy access to Delta 9 and THCA products in areas where cannabis is legal. However, there are certain places where cannabis laws are strict, and the availability of these products is limited.
Conclusion
In conclusion, THCA and Delta-9 THC each have their own benefits, so the right choice depends on what you’re looking for. If you prefer a non-psychoactive option, THCA may be the way to go. If you want the traditional cannabis experience with potential therapeutic effects, Delta-9 THC might be a better fit. No matter what you choose, always check local laws and buy from trusted sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is THCA stronger than Delta 9?
The effects of these cannabinoids depend on how they are consumed. This is because THCA does not produce intense effects before decarboxylation. However, after decarboxylation, THCA converts into THC and produces the same psychoactive effects as Delta-9 THC.
Can you get high from THCA?
THCA is a non-psychoactive compound that doesn’t make you feel high in its original state. However, the process of decarboxylation converts it into THC, which is the primary psychoactive component in cannabis. It means that THCA can get you high if it is smoked, vaped, or baked.
Does THCA turn into delta 9 when smoked
Yes, the THCA compound turns into Delta-9 when it is smoked. The heat from smoking causes decarboxylation and converts THCA into Delta-9 to produce intoxicating effects.
Does Delta-9 THC help with sleep?
Yes, low to moderate doses of Delta-9 THC may promote relaxation and make it easier to fall asleep. It may also help with pain relief and reduce anxiety, which can contribute to better sleep quality.
