Decarboxylation
You may have seen mixed answers regarding whether or not THCA is psychoactive. The reason for the answer being both yes and no? Decarboxylation. Keep reading to learn all about this process and what it means for THCA.
In the meantime, do some decarboxylation of your own with our THCA disposable vapes.
What is THCA?
In order to properly explain decarboxylation, we have to start with THCA. THCA is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis. It’s actually the acidic form of THC. If you’ve ever smoked weed, it almost certainly contained THCA. Unlike other cannabinoids like delta 8, THCA is naturally abundant. In its raw, original form, THCA is not psychoactive. Emphasis here on original form. In order to consume THCA in its original form, you would need to ingest raw cannabis (perhaps by grinding flower up into a smoothie, or biting into a nug like an apple if that’s more your vibe). Additionally, you could enjoy a specially made tincture.
THCA & the ECS
The reason that THCA is not psychoactive in this stage is due to its molecular structure. THCA contains a carboxyl ring which makes it incompatible with our CB1 receptors. These receptors are part of our endocannabinoid system. If there is no attachment to these receptors, we do not experience a high. In its original form, THCA is pretty comparable to other non-psychoactive cannabinoids, like CBD for example. Unaltered THCA is a great option for people who want to reap the benefits of THC without the high.
Decarboxylation
Notice I’ve only been focusing on unaltered THCA. This is because THCA completely changes with the addition of heat. This is where decarboxylation enters the chat. Once heat is added to THCA (via a lighter, a vape, or the oven), it loses the carboxyl ring that prohibits the attachment with our CB1 receptors. Sans carboxyl ring, the THCA transforms into THC. As we know, THC is psychoactive. So, if you are adding heat to your THCA, it will be THC by the time you’re consuming it, and you can expect to feel high.
Decarboxylation and you
If you’ve ever smoked cannabis? You’ve already completed decarboxylation. Cannabis is full of THCA, so much so that it is taken into account when determining its THC content. If you’re in a legal cannabis state, peep the label the next time you pick up some flower from the dispensary. You’ll likely see a high percentage of THCA.
Additionally, the entire reason you put your flower in the oven before making butter or oil? Decarboxylation. Since the butter won’t be lit on fire (unless you belong on Worst Cooks In America), the flower needs to be exposed to heat in order to be psychoactive. Once it’s already mixed into your cookies/brownies/whatever, the baking process isn’t enough to activate the THC. This is why decarbing in the oven is the first, and most crucial step before making any type of edibles if you want them to actually hit.
Our vapes
With our THCA disposable vapes, decarboxylation is as easy as pushing a button. Simply press, inhale, and enjoy. By the time you inhale, the THCA will have converted to THC. We offer varietals in indica, sativa, and hybrid to fit any occasion, and any time of day. With delicious flavors like Papaya, Orange Creamsicle, Purple Punch, and Pink Lemonade, you’ll be enjoying your moment before the high even hits. And, like every product in our store, our vapes are lab tested. We even share the results with you on our site so you can shop smart.
The bottom line
Decarboxylation transforms THCA into THC through heat. While this may sound like a complicated process, it’s as simple as using a lighter, a vape, or the oven. If you’re looking for your THCA to stay un-psychoactive, then skip the heat. Play chemist from your own home with our reliable, lab-tested THCA disposable vapes. The whole process could not be any easier, and we’re proud to offer products you can count on. Shop our selection today and experience the science of decarboxylation for yourself.