THC-A is the acidic precursor to THC that young hemp and cannabis plants produce in high quantities. In its raw form, THC-A does not exhibit mind or mood-altering effects. However, lighting and heating THCA causes the compound to transform into standard THC, unleashing the plant’s famous psychotropic high. Recent studies show that THC-A possesses therapeutic potential that could provide various benefits for pain, inflammation, neurodegeneration, and nausea.
In this article, we explore the therapeutic benefits of THC-A and how it differs from THC.
5 Incredible Therapeutic Properties from THC-A a Non-Psychoactive Cannabis Compound
Benefits of THC-A
Studies indicate that raw THCA (short for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid.) provides therapeutic advantages comparable to CBD and THC without inducing psychoactive effects. However, when heated and smoked, THCA transforms into THC, producing weed’s classic psychoactive high along with mood-boosting and sleep-enhancing benefits. Fortunately, hemp-derived THCA is legal nationwide. Learn more about THC-A legality.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Studies suggest that THCA exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting pro-inflammatory (damaging) signaling molecules known as cytokines from forming. THCA’s anti-inflammatory properties also come from its ability to protect cells against chemically induced death and reduce the production of harmful reactive oxygen species that cause disease. These properties allow THCA to potentially alleviate inflammatory conditions like:
- Arthritis
- Multiple sclerosis
- Autoimmune diseases
- Inflammatory pain
Antiemetic (anti-nausea and vomiting) effects
Scientific research suggests that THCA has antiemetic effects, meaning it may help to ease nausea and vomiting. A study on rats found that THCA effectively reduced nausea and vomiting, like THC. However, unlike THC, THCA did not reduce body temperature or alter physical mobility. The study also indicated that THCA had a similar efficacy to the antiemetic drug Ondansetron. More research is needed to fully understand the potential anti-nausea properties of THCA and its effectiveness in human trials.
Neuroprotective properties
THCA possesses neuroprotective properties, possibly attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. For example, a study on Parkinson’s disease showed that THCA protected dopamine-producing neurons from oxidative stress, a significant contributor to the disease’s progression. By protecting neurons in the brain and nervous system from damage, THCA could also mitigate the symptoms of conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s.
Anticancer properties
Emerging evidence suggests that THCA has anti-cancer properties. A study published in 2013 found that THCA exhibited growth-inhibiting effects in prostate cancer cells. Another study published in 2006 found that THCA effectively reduced the development of breast cancer cells. Furthermore, a review published in 2020 highlighted the potential of THCA as a treatment for other cancer types, including breast and prostate cancer. Human clinical trials are needed to understand its potential as a cancer treatment fully.
Psychoactive potential
THCA is a “building block” for THC in hemp and cannabis. When the plant is heated through smoking or cooking, THCA transforms into THC, exhibiting identical psychoactive and therapeutic properties that people report getting from marijuana, including:
- Mood elevation
- Sleep support
- Pain relief
- Stress relief
- Enhanced creativity
How THC-A works in the body
Pre-clinical evidence indicates raw THCA has multiple mechanisms of action in the body that contribute to its therapeutic properties.
Like THC, THCA interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, albeit to a much lesser extent. The endocannabinoid system is a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and signaling molecules that help regulate physiological processes like sleep, pain, and appetite. Its two primary receptors, CB1 and CB2, interact with cannabinoids, including THCA, to help maintain balance across various critical functions.
THCA may also act on unique pathways, including:
- 5-HT serotonin receptor, associated with mood, appetite, sleep, and pain sensations.
- TRPV1 vanilloid receptor, related to pain, temperature and heat perception.
- PPARγ nuclear receptor, involved in various processes such as glucose balance, lipid (fat) metabolism, and inflammation.
These interactions can result in various therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, neuroprotective, and potential anti-cancer properties.
The legal status of THC-A
THCA’s legal status has generated a lot of debate and confusion, but it differs from THC because of its non-psychoactive properties.
THC-A, unlike THC, is not explicitly listed under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), so it is not a DEA-banned banned substance. Additionally, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp and hemp-derived products, including THCA, as long as the final formula contains less than 0.3% delta 9 THC (regular THC(. The passage of the Farm Bill means that hemp-derived THCA seems to be legal under federal law in the US.
However, it’s crucial to note that state rules regarding THCA can vary. It’s also worth noting that the legal framework around THCA and other cannabinoids is constantly changing, making it essential to stay current on changes in local regulations.
The Bottom Line
THC-A presents a promising avenue for therapeutic benefits with anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, neuroprotective, and potential anti-cancer properties. As a non-psychoactive compound, THC-A could be a valuable alternative for people who wish to avoid the psychotropic effects. On the other hand, people who want a mind and mood-altering experience can smoke or cook THCA to transform it into THC.
Regardless of the method, THCA has enormous potential in the field of medicine and health. Cannabis researchers will undoubtedly continue exploring this fascinating compound in the future.
