Cannabis News
Everything You Need to Know About THCA
Published
1 year agoon
By
admin
You’ve almost certainly heard of THC. Roughly half of Americans say they’ve tried marijuana, and THC is the cannabinoid that’s responsible for its psychoactive effects. Since Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize recreational marijuana use in the U.S., the majority of the country has followed suit. It’s only illegal in 12 states, and even then, it’s decriminalized in some places. In the near future, it may even be moved to a Schedule 3 drug.
However, THC isn’t the only compound in marijuana that’s gained popularity. It’s one of over 100 cannabinoids that have been identified, and each one has its own set of potential therapeutic benefits. CBD is the most well-known, followed by CBG, CBN, and delta-8 THC. However, there’s another cannabinoid that’s gaining traction: THCA.
What Is THCA?
THCA (short for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is the precursor molecule to THC. It occurs naturally in raw cannabis (whereas THC doesn’t) and converts to THC when the flower is exposed to heat and light.
When cannabis is dried and cured, THCA slowly becomes THC. This is why inhaling marijuana has such a strong effect; it’s full of potent THC molecules that were created from THCA. THCA isn’t the only cannabinoid acid you’ll find in cannabis. Others include:
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CBDA (cannabidiolic acid)
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CBGA (cannabigerolic acid)
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CBCA (cannabinolacetic acid)
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CBGVA (cannabigevarinic acid)
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THCVA (tetrahydrocannabivarin acid)
Since THCA isn’t psychoactive, you won’t get “high” if you consume it in its natural form. However, there’s growing evidence that it has its own unique set of therapeutic benefits, some of which are similar to THC.
The Science Behind THCA
THCA is the compound that eventually transforms into THC, a process encouraged by heat, time, and light through a process known as decarboxylation. This phenomenon involves the shedding of a carboxylic acid group, thus altering the compound’s structure and effects.
A distinguishing feature of THCA is its instability under controlled storage conditions. While it is prevalent in fresh cannabis, it easily transitions into THC when exposed to certain elements, making it a dynamically changing compound.
Even at temperatures ranging between 4ºC and 18ºC (39ºF to 64ºF), THCA tends to decarboxylate, a quality that points to its sensitive nature and the intricate care needed in its preservation. This characteristic presents a conundrum in achieving precise laboratory results; ‘THC contamination‘ is practically a given with all THCA testing.
What Does THCA Do Inside the Human Body?
While it might appear as a challenge in the scientific community, it is this very attribute that has piqued the curiosity of researchers and enthusiasts alike. Everything that exists in the world of cannabis compounds has a role to play in the human body through the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). This remarkable system, discovered recently thanks to the pioneering work of Raphael Mechoulam, stands as a guardian of homeostasis, ensuring a balanced internal environment for various vital systems, including the brain and immune system.
THCA’s large molecular size prevents it from binding to the CB1 receptors, which are responsible for THC’s psychoactive effects. It also does not bind to CB2 receptors, which are primarily responsible for anti-inflammatory responses. THCA still produces an array of therapeutic effects. According to 2023 research, it’s been shown to be an effective anti-inflammatory agent. It also improves neuroproductivity, making it potentially beneficial for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Some research on rats has shown THCA to reduce nausea and vomiting as well.
THCA vs. THCV
THCV is another interesting cannabinoid found in cannabis. It’s similar to THCA in that it doesn’t bind to the CB1 receptor, but it has different effects on the body. Unlike THCA, THCV binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors. It can act as an appetite suppressant, making it a potential treatment for obesity-related conditions, including diabetes.
THCV is technically a psychoactive compound, but its effects are quite different from those of THC. Only very high dosages result in a feeling of euphoria, and its effects wear off sooner than the effects of THC. THCV is typically present in low concentrations, but certain strains can have higher levels of THCV compared to others. Most of the time, these strains also have higher THC content than the average strain.
THCA vs. THC
Since THCA decarboxylates even at low temperatures, smoking or vaping cannabis with a “high THCA content” won’t necessarily mean you’re getting more THCA (that is, if you decide to smoke or vape it). The process of burning or heating the marijuana will cause all of it to turn into THC.
To isolate the THCA and experience its effects, users need to use alternative methods of consuming cannabis. They have to take the flower and extract the cannabinoids to preserve the THCA’s properties. By consuming high-THCA cannabis, you’re able to reap its potential benefits without any of the psychoactivity associated with THC.
Here’s a look at some of the key differences between THCA and THC:
Potency
THCA isn’t seen as a potent compound at all. Its psychoactive effects are practically nonexistent, like many cannabinoids. THC is the only one that produces a noticeable high. THCA becomes potent once it’s heated, burned, or cured. Crystalline THCA can be packaged and sold in high concentrates, so cooking, vaping, or smoking it could have extremely potent effects
In fact, that’s usually the main reason people buy high-THCA flower (like that from Bud Brothers THCA Raleigh). Due to the much higher concentration of THC this process produces, it sometimes yields a more potent high than regular marijuana of the same caliber.
Benefits
THCA has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits, so it may be beneficial for treating certain chronic conditions (neurodegenerative diseases). It’s also been studied for its ability to reduce nausea and improve appetite. It’s also worth noting that THCA can be enjoyed without being intoxicated, which is a huge benefit for those who don’t want to experience the effects of THC. As the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, THC is a lot more heavily researched. According to an extensive body of research spanning decades, benefits include:
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A mind-altering effect users describe as “energizing,” “elevating,” “relaxing,” “pleasurable,” or “psychedelic.”
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Pain relief from chronic pain syndromes like Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, and Multiple Sclerosis
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Appetite stimulation for chemotherapy patients undergoing cancer treatment
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Neuroprotective qualities to protect nerve cells from damage and degeneration
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Improved sleep quality and duration
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Chronic pain relief
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Relief from stress, anxiety, PTSD, depression, and other mood disorders
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Overall improved mood and outlook on life
In general, THC serves most of the “benefits” of all the other cannabinoids. However, it’s also mind-altering, which is a turn-off for cannabis users who only want the therapeutic benefits. THCA is among the several cannabinoids that helps fill this gap.
Consumption
It’s easy to use THC. There are seemingly countless options for consuming cannabis and cannabis extracts, each with a different level of potency and control. Marijuana users can choose to smoke or vape however they like. They also have countless options for edibles, including cannabis butter, which they can use to cook THC into just about anything at home. Really, the only big decision they have to make is, “How much THC do I want to consume?”
However, THCA is more complicated. It isn’t enough for THCA users to find a way to ingest it without cooking, burning, or vaping it. It can turn into THC even under slight warmth or sunlight. If it’s forgotten in the car for too long, it’s ruined. The only two options for THCA users are:
Most often, THCA users blend it into a juice or smoothie, as its bitter flavor is, according to some, nearly unbearable on its own. It can also be mixed into other food items and consumed that way (as long as they are cold foods). For anyone willing to put up with the taste, it’s also possible to consume the cannabis flower as-is.
Legality
At the federal level, THCA isn’t illegal, but it can quickly turn into THC (often without the user’s awareness). And, THC is generally the reason people use cannabis. It could be considered an analog of THC and still be subject to federal law. under the Analogue Act.
If you’re purchasing a THC product (such as cannabis flower) with THCA content, it will still be subject to cannabis laws in your state, even if you don’t intend to use the substance for its psychoactive effects.
It’s important to research the local laws and regulations before using THCA products. In a legal state, you might be able to purchase it with relative ease. However, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and double-check first.
Final Thoughts
Compared to other cannabinoids, THCA is rare (and tough to come by). Since it can’t be heated even a little bit, it’s certainly less convenient than many other cannabinoids with similar benefits. It’s a promising compound many enjoy using for its therapeutic, non-psychoactive properties.
When you’re shopping for THCA products, it’s more important than ever to look for ones from reputable growers. Since you’ll likely be consuming the product outright, you don’t want nasty chemicals or metals inadvertently entering your body, and you don’t want to risk consuming THC when you don’t intend to.
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Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It
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November 14, 2024By
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In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.
The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation
Federal vs. State Laws
Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.
Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry
Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:
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Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.
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Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.
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Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.
Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform
Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.
Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.
The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.
Current Regulatory Challenges
The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:
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Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.
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Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.
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Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.
Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation
Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.
In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:
1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.
2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.
3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.
Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.
Implications of Proposed Reforms
Economic Impact
The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:
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Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.
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Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.
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Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.
Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.
Social Justice Considerations
Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:
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Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.
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Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.
Political Landscape
The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.
Conclusion
Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.
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Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em
Published
1 day agoon
November 13, 2024By
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On Thursday, November 7th, Vince Sliwoski, Aaron Pelley and Fred Rocafort held a post election discussion “Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em”. Watch the replay!
Key Takeaways from the “Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em – 2024 Post Election Cannabis Wrap” Webinar:
- Panelists:
- Vince Sliwoski: Oregon Business lawyer specializing in cannabis and commercial real estate.
- Aaron Pelley: Experienced in cannabis law since Washington’s legalization in 2012.
- Fred Rocafort: Trademark attorney working closely with the cannabis team.
- Election Results Overview:
- Most 2024 cannabis ballot measures did not pass.
- Florida, South Dakota, and North Dakota saw failures.
- Nebraska became the 39th state to legalize cannabis for medical use when it passed two cannabis initiatives, Initiatives 437 and 438.
- Federal and State-Level Developments:
- Medical use is currently legal in 38 states, and 24 states allow recreational use.
- Republican support for marijuana legalization is growing.
- Federal Policy Implications:
- Schedule III Rescheduling: The process to move cannabis to Schedule III is ongoing, which could significantly impact the industry.
- Importance of Federal Appointments: The future of cannabis policy depends heavily on who is appointed to key positions in the administration.
- International and Domestic Trade:
- Schedule III status could ease import/export restrictions on cannabis.
- Unified control of House, Senate, and presidency might expedite legislative progress.
- Economic and Industry Impact:
- Cannabis stocks experienced volatility post-election, reflecting investor uncertainty.
- Federal legalization and banking reforms are crucial for industry stability and growth.
- Future Outlook:
- The potential for federal rescheduling remains strong, with hearings scheduled for early 2025.
- State-level initiatives and regulatory developments will continue to shape the industry.
“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.
The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.
Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.
THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.
THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.
The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.
The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.
Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests
Urine Tests
Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.
Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:
– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days
– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days
– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days
– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days
Blood Tests
Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.
Saliva Tests
THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.
Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.
In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.
Hair Tests
Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.
Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.
Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention
The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.
Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:
– Dosage: How much you consume
– Frequency: How often you use cannabis
– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual
– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time
Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.
How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?
When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.
The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:
– Altered senses, including perception of time
– Mood changes
– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
– Impaired memory
Other short-term effects can include:
– Anxiety and confusion
– Decreased coordination
– Dry mouth and eyes
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Trouble focusing
– Increased appetite
– Rapid heart rate
– Restlessness and sleepiness
In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.
Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:
– Cognitive issues like memory loss
– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke
– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections
– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.
Duration of Effects
Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.
Bottom Line
The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.
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