THCa, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in raw cannabis. It’s the precursor to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the compound responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use. THCa converts into THC when it’s heated — a process known as decarboxylation. That means THCa won’t get you high unless it's heated through smoking, vaping, or cooking.

Not on its own. THCa is non-psychoactive in its raw form. However, once it’s heated, it converts into THC, which is psychoactive. So, yes — if you smoke or vape THCa flower, it will deliver effects nearly identical to traditional high-THC cannabis.

Yes — THCa is federally legal in the United States under the 2018 Farm Bill as long as the product contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight. That means THCa flower is often sold legally in states where recreational cannabis isn’t yet available, though laws vary by state. Always check your local regulations.

THCa

• Non-psychoactive
• Found in raw cannabis
• Legal under Farm Bill (if < 0.3% Δ9-THC)
• Common in hemp flower

THC

• Psychoactive
• Created through heat (decarboxylation)
• Controlled substance (in many states)
• Common in marijuana flower

You can use THCa in several ways:

• Smoking or Vaping: Heats THCa, converting it to THC for a traditional high.
• Dabbing: Great for concentrates like THCa diamonds.
• Juicing or Raw Use: Some users consume raw cannabis for potential health benefits, without the high.
• Infusions: THCa can be added to edibles or topicals if properly decarbed first.

Yes. Even though THCa itself is non-psychoactive, once heated and converted to THC, it can trigger a positive result on drug tests that screen for THC metabolites. Play it safe if you’re subject to testing.