Marijuana is a plant of many surprises, and the more we study it, the more it continues to amaze us. One of the lesser-known compounds found in this amazing plant is tetrahydrocannabinolic acid or THCA. The cannabinoids in marijuana, including THC, have been found to have multiple medicinal properties, coupled with THCA, it seems to possess some powerful health benefits too. Let’s dive into the basics of thca weed and its effects on our bodies.
The first thing to note is that THCA is not the same as THC, the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana. THCA is the acid precursor of THC, and it is in abundance in raw and under-heated marijuana. It converts to THC when exposed to heat and only then produces a psychoactive effect. Although THCA alone does not cause a “high,” this compound has an array of health advantages.
THCA has been found to be a potent anti-inflammatory compound. It accomplishes this through its ability to neutralize specific enzymes in the body that cause inflammation. Excessive inflammation leads to a host of diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. By reducing inflammation, THCA may help prevent the onset of these illnesses.
THCA may also be useful in treating nausea and vomiting, two significant symptoms that often accompany illnesses such as cancer and HIV. A study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology found that THCA effectively reduced vomiting and nausea in rats by activating certain receptors in their brain. The study concluded that THCA may be an effective and non-intoxicating alternative to THC in reducing nausea and vomiting in humans.
Another study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology discovered that THCA might even be a potential treatment for seizures. The study found that THCA worked similarly to anti-seizure medications in animals, reducing the severity and duration of seizures. Although human trials are yet to be done, these findings hold promise that THCA may be a future treatment option for individuals with epilepsy.
The powerful health implications of THCA are not only limited to disease prevention or treatment of physical conditions. THC is well-known for its ability to manage stress, and the non-psychoactive precursor, THCA, is no different. THCA has been found to have adaptogenic properties. It helps the body adjust to external stressors and restore balance to internal systems. It also acts as a neuroprotectant and may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Finally, it is worth noting that not all methods of consuming THCA are the same. Because most cannabis strains contain a sizeable amount of THCA, you must consume it in a way that allows the compound to pass through the digestive system or circulatory system effectively. One effective way of consuming THCA, as well as other cannabinoids, is through juicing raw cannabis leaves. The heat from smoking or traditional marijuana edibles destroys THCA, which degrades to THC after being exposed to high temperatures.
Conclusion:
As research continues to uncover the secrets of the cannabis plant, scientists are beginning to explore its potential for treating a wide range of physical and psychological conditions. The health benefits of THCA, one of the lesser-known cannabinoids in weed, are just one example of the plant’s medicinal wonders. From treating inflammation to managing stress, THCA holds promise as an alternative or complement to existing treatments for many health conditions. As always, it is essential to discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your healthcare provider.
