THCA and CBD are two cannabinoids found in hemp. They have many similar qualities, but there are also some important distinctions to be aware of before deciding which is best for you.
From the potential for psychoactivity to the most common effects, we’re here to help you understand exactly what makes these cannabinoids unique. Ready to find out which is best for you? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know!
What is THCA?
THCA is a precursor to Delta 9 THC. THCA is found in raw hemp and cannabis leaves. When left in this raw state, it doesn’t produce psychoactive effects.
But, there is something unique about THCA. When it’s heated, the molecular structure changes and it becomes THC. After you heat THCA and convert it to THC, it produces the same psychoactive effects as delta 9.
THCA flower is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, offering a convenient and accessible option for those seeking the benefits of THC.
How THCA Works in the Body
There are two types of cannabinoid receptors in your body. CB1 receptors are most responsible for creating psychoactive effects, while CB2 receptors primarily produce non-psychoactive, wellness-related effects.
Until it’s heated and converted into delta 9 THC, THCA can only bind to your CB2 receptors. People who use raw, non-psychoactive THCA tend to get more restful sleep, feel more body relaxation, and experience better digestion.
But, most people consume smokeable or vaporized THCA to get the psychoactive effects. Once THCA converts to delta 9 THC, it can bind to the CB1 receptors and create the same effects as delta 9.
Conversion of THCA to THC
How exactly do you convert THCA to THC? Through a process called decarboxylation. Decarboxylating, or “decarbing,” THCA might seem complicated — but in reality, all decarbing means is heating.
Heating THCA at a temperature between 220-250 degrees F for 30-40 minutes is the best way to completely decarb THCA. But, even lighting up one of Koi’s THCa Mini Pre-Rolls is enough for decarboxylation to begin.
If you prefer vaping, try Koi’s THCA + THC-P + Delta 9 Vapes for your THCA fix. THC-P and delta 9 are already psychoactive, and the vaporization will decarb the THCA for even more potent effects.
What is CBD?
Like THCA, CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the hemp plant. But unlike THCA, it doesn’t convert to delta 9 when heated.
Because CBD is completely non-psychoactive, it’s a popular cannabinoid for people who want to enjoy the natural wellness benefits of hemp. Some of its most well-known effects are relieving body tension, quieting a busy mind, and encouraging more restful sleep.
How CBD Works in the Body
Unlike most other cannabinoids, CBD doesn’t bind to CB1 or CB2 receptors. The exact science isn’t clear, but what we do know is that CBD does interact with the endocannabinoid system to produce a wide array of wellness benefits.
Wellness Benefits of CBD
CBD can go a long way in supporting natural wellness and encouraging better overall functioning. Most often, people use it for things like natural mood-boosting and calming the mind. It’s also been shown to support faster recovery and healthy immune response.
THCA vs CBD: How Are They Different?
We’ve covered the basics of THCA and CBD. But if you’re still wondering which cannabinoid is best for you, comparing the two might help you make the right choice.
From psychoactivity to interaction with the endocannabinoid system, let’s cover the differences between THCA and CBD.
Psychoactivity
Both THCA and CBD are non-psychoactive by nature. However, heating THCA converts it to delta 9 THC and gives it psychoactive effects, while CBD is completely free of psychoactive effects.
Raw, non-psychoactive THCA can be infused into edibles like gummies, mixed into lotions, or used in tinctures. For psychoactive effects, try heating it by smoking THCA flower or using THCA in a vape cartridge.
You can use CBD in any form, even a vape cartridge, and not feel any psychoactive effects.
Interaction with the Endocannabinoid System
Non-psychoactive THCA only interacts with your body’s CB2 receptors. Once it’s heated and converted to delta 9, it interacts with both CB1 and CB2 receptors. This lets THCA create body-soothing effects in its raw form, plus psychoactive effects after it’s been heated.
CBD doesn’t bind to either CB1 or CB2 receptors in your body. Instead, it’s thought to either prevent endocannabinoid breakdown to balance the entire endocannabinoid system.
Wellness Benefits Comparison
THCA and CBD are both well-known for supporting better body functioning. But, their specific wellness benefits vary.
Both cannabinoids support a healthy immune response and reduce body tension and soreness. People also often use THCA to support healthy digestion or for its neuroprotective properties. CBD, on the other hand, is more popular with people who want to quiet a busy mind or get more restful sleep at night.
Benefits of THCA
In its heated form, THCA offers all the same psychoactive effects as delta 9 THC. But, this cannabinoid can also be an excellent tool in supporting natural wellness. Let’s go over some of THCA’s most well-known benefits.
Healthy Immune Response and Neuroprotective Effects
THCA has been shown to promote a healthy immune system response and better balance in the body. Like many other cannabinoids, experts say THCA has neuroprotective properties to support the mind.
THCA for Nausea and Appetite
Increased appetite is one of the most well-known effects of psychoactive cannabinoids like delta 9. But if you want to develop a healthier appetite without psychoactive effects, THCA in its raw form can do wonders.
Research on THCA
THCA isn’t the most well-known cannabinoid, but experts are discovering more benefits of THCA every day. There has been a lot of research into its potential to support natural wellness, especially when it comes to things like body soothing and neuroprotective effects.
Benefits of CBD
CBD has gained considerable traction over the last few years. It’s become an important part of natural wellness, offering benefits ranging from body-soothing effects to better sleeping habits. One of the things people enjoy most about CBD is its relaxing effects.
CBD for Sleep and Relaxation
CBD is one of the best cannabinoids for anyone looking to quiet a busy mind or get a better night’s sleep. Its relaxing properties are some of CBD’s most well-known benefits, and tons of people use it for an easier time falling and staying asleep.
For the best rest, we recommend our Cherry Limeade-flavored Koi Nighttime Rest Gummies. Each contains 10mg of non-psychoactive CBD and a 2.5mg serving of Melatonin.
Are THCA and CBD Legal?
The legalities surrounding THCA and CBD vary widely based on cannabinoid content and the area you live in. There are different federal and state laws surrounding THCA and CBD, and we’re here to break it all down for you.
Federal Law
Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived products containing 0.3% or less delta 9 THC by dry weight are legal under federal law. As long as your CBD and THCA products meet these criteria, they’re legal by federal standards.
However, the same laws don’t apply to cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant. Because cannabis still falls under the legal definition of “marijuana,” cannabis-derived products are not legal under federal law.
State-by-State Legal Status
Different states have different laws surrounding different cannabinoids. Some follow the federal status quo, while others have more restrictive laws.
It’s important to remember that laws can vary widely from place to place and change frequently. Always be sure a certain product is legal in your state before purchasing it.
Which is Right for You: THCA or CBD?
Now that you know the difference between THCA and CBD, you might still be wondering which is best for you!
Like with any natural wellness product, it’s important to consider your needs, preferences, and goals before choosing a cannabinoid. The final decision is ultimately up to you, but we’ll give you some information below to make the decision a little easier.
Psychoactivity
The biggest difference between THCA and CBD is that, when heated, THCA converts to delta 9 THC and becomes psychoactive. CBD, on the other hand, is completely non-psychoactive.
If you want psychoactive effects, choose smokeable or vaporizable THCA. If you don’t CBD is usually the better choice.
Consider Your Wellness Goals
The next thing to consider is why you’re turning to natural wellness products. Do you want to help your body improve its immune response or settle an upset stomach? You’ll probably prefer THCA. If your main goal is better relaxation or more restful sleep, we recommend CBD.
Consumption Preferences
The next thing to think about is how you prefer to consume your cannabinoids. Most people smoke, vape, or use THCA in a tincture — just remember that smoking or vaping will convert THCA to Delta 9 THC, making it psychoactive.
CBD is commonly used in oils, gummies, and creams. You can also vape CBD, and unlike THCA, it won’t become psychoactive if you do.
Consulting with a Doctor
If you have any hesitation about choosing a cannabinoid, ask your healthcare provider for their thoughts. They may be able to help you decide whether THCA or CBD is best for you — and they might even have serving recommendations!
Summary
THCA and CBD are two completely different cannabinoids. From their potential psychoactivity to the way they work with your endocannabinoid system, there are some important differences to be aware of before you decide which to use.
