Shopping for a niche cannabinoid product can feel like a daunting task for many shoppers. The various, similar-sounding cannabinoids leave many individuals wondering what the best fit for their needs is. Among the most questioned of these cannabinoids are THC and THCA. What exactly is the difference between the two?
While both sound similar, THC and THCA are very different cannabinoids. When it comes to hemp, this discussion of THC and THCA becomes even more confusing thanks to the minefield of compliance policies and politics. However, transparent and reputable brands will make sure their shoppers are educated to make informed decisions when it comes to the products they are purchasing.
What is THC?
Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC for short, is comprised of a group of psychoactive cannabinoids found within the hemp plant. Under current federal law, all legal hemp products must contain less than .3% Delta 9 THC on a dry weight basis. However, Delta 9 THC is just one of the several THC cannabinoids. Hemp plants also contain;
- Delta 8 THC
- Delta 10 THC
- Delta 11 THC
![](https://panthercanna.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/THC-Structure0.png)
THC cannabinoids are known to produce properties including anti-nausea, appetite stimulation, anti-inflammatory, and anxiety reduction. Some studies have even suggested that THC shows potential in slowing tumor growth. While studies observing THC cannabinoids are still preliminary, the expansion of biomass available to study individual cannabinoids has helped the scientific and medical communities expand that research.
What is THCA?
On the other hand, THCA is a single cannabinoid and a very important one at that. THCA is short for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, but it is also known as the Mother of All Cannabinoids. Without it, we would not have any of the THC cannabinoids listed above.
According to Leafly, “THCA is not intoxicating if ingested. Chemically, it has an additional molecular carboxyl ring, which prevents it from binding to receptors in the brain responsible for feeling high.”
![](https://panthercanna.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/THCa-Structure0.png)
However, THCA can produce psychoactive properties under certain conditions. When introduced to heat, the hemp plant undergoes a process called decarboxylation. This means that when THCA is introduced to heat, it converts to THC.
While THCA being non-psychoactive is the primary difference between it and THC, THCA has a lot of potential to offer. For example, a 2017 paper published by Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research found, that “the anti-inflammatory activity of Cannabis extracts on colon epithelial cells derives from a fraction of the extract that contains THCA.” In layman’s terms, THCA produces anti-inflammatory properties.
Other properties of THCA include anti-nausea, neuroprotection, anti-seizure, and sleep promotion. While most of the studies exploring these properties are considered preliminary, they offer new and exciting insights into our knowledge about cannabinoids.
Where to Buy Hemp-derived THC and THCA Products?
Ready to shop for hemp-derived THC and THCA products to try for yourself? Panther Canna carries a healthy variety of niche cannabinoid products to choose from. Our selection of THC and THCA products has something for everyone, whether they are new or experienced with hemp-derived THC products.
From drinks, to gummies, to vapes, and everything in between, Panther Canna has a selection that is hard to beat! Have questions about any of our products? Give us a call at (682) 200-9985 or send us an email at info@panthercanna.com to have a knowledgeable staff member who will be happy to answer any and all of your questions or concerns.
When it comes to finding the right hemp-derived THC and THCA products, Panther Canna is in your corner. Our goal is to help you find the right product for your needs. That is why Panther Canna is a leader in the hemp community. So what are you waiting for? Start shopping with Panther Canna today!