What is THCA and What Are its Medicinal Benefits?
When it comes to marijuana, most people are only familiar with its two most well-known compounds, THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol). However, the cannabis plant actually has more than 85 different chemicals known as cannabinoids, and we are only in the infant stages of learning about some of the others. One of the most promising compounds currently being studied is THCA, formally known as Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid. This cannabinoid contains unique properties and creates particular effects just like any other. So what is THCA, how does it interact with the body, and can it be just as medicinally beneficial as its cannabinoid counterparts?
What is THCA?
As the name suggests, THCA is very closely related to THC, but it lacks the psychoactive properties of its more well-known cousin. THCA is found in raw cannabis but only when the plant is alive or recently picked. Once this happens, the THCA begins to change through a process known as decarboxylation. In fact, as the cannabis is dried and eventually burned, the THCA in the plant converts to the more well-known THC.
Effects and Benefits of THCA:
Even though THCA and THC are similar chemically, they do affect the body in very different ways. The research into THCA and its properties is a relatively new area of study, but preliminary studies have suggested that it contains some very strong therapeutic properties, which could possibly shape the future of medical marijuana for decades to come.
So far, the research has been promising when it comes to testing the benefits of THCA in the following areas:
- – Has been shown to be an anti-inflammatory agent, which means that it could be useful in treating some of the symptoms of diseases such as arthritis and lupus.
- – Can be effective in treating appetite loss, nausea, and other similar conditions.
- – Has neuroprotective elements which have shown promise in treating various neurodegenerative conditions, including Parkinson’s Disease and certain forms of dementia.
- – Contains anti-proliferative properties which can help to slow the growth of prostate cancer.
Even with much still to learn about THCA, the known benefits provide a high level of optimism for future medicinal possibilities and treatment options.
Where Can THCA Be Found?
Because THCA is basically what you find in cannabis before it is dried, it is nearly impossible to find this compound in any high-THC strain of cannabis that has not been processed yet. For this reason, one of the most common ways people benefit from this cannabinoid is by taking raw cannabis parts and juicing.
To eliminate the hassle, products containing varying levels of THCA can be found at most operating medical marijuana dispensaries. You can even speak with one of our licensed professionals to see if THCA products may be viable treatment options for you before visiting your local dispensary.
Just make an appointment with MedWell Health & Wellness Centers to see if you qualify for a medical marijuana certification and we’ll be happy to recommend the best possible treatment options for your given condition.
Schedule your initial certification evaluation by clicking here!
Aaron Bloom serves as the CEO, overseeing the mission and growth of DocMJ and Medwell Health and Wellness Centers. Aaron’s passion for improving patients’ lives comes from his background in health care. For more than 20 years, Aaron owned, operated, and represented traditional healthcare organizations. This experience created a passion for finding improved ways to relieve suffering. His goal as CEO is to work daily to relieve all patients who seek better health and wellness through the medicinal benefits of medical cannabis and evidence-based alternative medicines.
