The cannabis industry is always expanding and providing new innovative ways to achieve the euphoric and medicinal benefits provided from THC and its counterparts. All the cannabinoids that have been driven from cannabis plants offer slightly different potency and methods of consumption.
We’re talking THCA, Delta-8, Delta-9, CBD and more.
But how does THCA compare to others when it comes to strength? Let’s dive into all the influencing factors that attribute to the strength and effectiveness of THCA and how it compares to other cannabinoids.
Curious about the uses and effects of THCA? Learn more here!
What Influences the Strength of THCA?
Decarboxylation
THCA is the precursor to THC, meaning that it already exists within the trichomes of naturally occurring cannabis plants. The most important process that aids in THCA supplying the same psycho-active effects of THC is decarboxylation.
THCA must undergo this process to bind to your brain’s receptors and interact with the central nervous system to induce the euphoric high commonly associated with THC.
Decarboxylation is the chemical conversion of THCA to THC with the application of heat, whether the heat source is a lighter, vape atomizer, or appropriate temperatures when cooking or baking.
Strain
The specific cannabis strain can also influence the potency of THCA. Certain strains produce more dense and powerful trichomes than others, resulting in higher concentrations of THCA.
Always source your THCA products from a reputable brand that offers third-party lab tests and transparency about the quality of their products. This will ensure that potency is present and high!
Each strain offers different benefits and effects and you may need to establish your goals when referring to the type of high you desire. This will only help you find the best products that meet your specific needs!
No matter the strain, the trichomes are already known as the THC powerhouse and therefore, any healthy and fruitful cannabis plant will yield THCA that still packs a punch.
Moonwlkr offers different strains of THCA for your very own custom high!
How Does THCA Compare to Other Cannabinoids?
THCA is most comparable to THC making it the heavyweight champion of cannabinoids. But how does it compare to others?
Is THCA Stronger than THC?
THCA is the precursor to THC – as we’ve mentioned, this means that through the process of decarboxylation, THCA is converted into THC. Thus, THCA does not necessarily offer stronger psychoactive effects than THC – it just encompasses a few unique properties before decarboxylation. The biggest difference between these two counterparts is the therapeutic benefits THCA can offer in its raw form BEFORE it is transformed into THC for psychoactivity. Therefore THCA can offer anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, and neuroprotective properties without the psychoactive effects – if you so choose to consume THCA in its raw form.
Is THCA Stronger than Delta 8?
Delta-8 is best recognized as an option for cannabis users that want to experience a milder high. Some even refer to Delta-8 as “diet weed”, no it doesn’t make you drop pounds – it is the ‘lighter’ version of THC.
Delta-8 is best recommended for beginners, or those seeking a mellow high without the overwhelming sensations that can be brought on by THCA. THCA on the other hand is for those who may already have experience with cannabinoids, appreciate potency and seek more powerful effects. Therefore, YES! THCA is stronger than Delta-8.
Is THCA Stronger than Delta 9?
Delta 9 THC is the most prevalent cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. When you smoke, vape, or eat THC, you are consuming Delta 9 THC.
THCA is non-psycho-active before decarboxylation and in this state, does not produce the effects Delta 9 THC can! However, the decarboxylation of THCA removes a carboxyl group converting it into the Delta 9 THC or simply THC.
Therefore, the potency and effectiveness of Delta 9 THC and THCA are relatively similar. Both offer the authoritative high many experienced cannabis users know and love.
THCA and Delta 9 are both heavy hitters and each offer a range of methods for consumption.
Dive into our THCA and Delta 9 THC comparison guide!
Cannabinoid Comparison Chart
There are many benefits and effects that THC and its counterparts THCA, Delta 9, and Delta 8 all have to offer. However, these cannabinoids differ slightly based on their form of consumption and potency levels.
| THCA | THC | Delta 9 THC | Delta 8 THC | |
| Psychoactive Activation | Decarboxylation (Heating) | Naturally psychoactive | Naturally psychoactive | Naturally psychoactive |
| Potency | Highly potent when heated | Depends on type | Highly potent | Less potent |
| Psychoactivity | Psychoactive (when heated)
Non-psychoactive (when raw) |
Psychoactive | Psychoactive | Psychoactive (less than Delta 9) |
| Therapeutic Benefits | Neuroprotective properties, Anti-inflammation, Antiemetic, Pain Relief, Relaxation | Depends on the form of THC, such as THCA, Delta 9, or Delta 8 | Stress relief, Pain relief, Sleep Aid, Appetite stimulant, Nausea relief | Stress relief, Pain relief, Sleep Aid |
Other Factors that Influence the Strength of THCA
Each and every person is different. Therefore, we all encompass unique properties and lifestyles that can contribute to the potential benefits and effectiveness of cannabinoids. It is important to consider the following in regard to the strength you may experience when consuming THCA:
- Tolerance
Seasoned stoners may have a higher tolerance leading to a lesser intensity of effects when using THCA. If you are an avid cannabis user, you may need to gauge your dosage based on your current intake of THC. As a newcomer, it is important to start with smaller doses and gradually increase to achieve your desired high without overdoing it
- Metabolism
The metabolic rate at which your body breaks down substances can vary person to person. The faster your metabolism, the quicker you may experience the effects of THCA. Always make sure to give your body time to metabolize any substance before increasing your dosage.
- Water/Food Intake
We recommend trying a new substance such as THCA after eating a serving of food. Consuming cannabinoids on an empty stomach may cause a stronger effect more quickly. Don’t forget to hydrate!
- Body Composition
Your body weight and internal chemical composition can also influence the rate at which your body metabolizes THCA. Typically, higher body weight can require higher dosage to feel the effects of THCA.
- Genetics
Your unique genetics allow for variations in your endocannabinoid system. THCA reacts with this system to bring on the euphoric effects associated with cannabis use.
- Environment
The environment in which you choose to partake in THCA consumption can play a huge role in your individual experience. If you are a cannabis rookie, always make sure to practice safe consumption methods in a comfortable environment. The more familiar and comfy you are, the better your high will be!
- Health
It is always important to consult your doctor before introducing a new substance into your system. The functionality of your liver and other organs can impact the response your body has to THCA. Other medical conditions can also play a role in the overall experience you may encounter with THCA.
Check out our THCA New User’s Guide here!
Is THCA Strong?
THCA is a front-runner in strength when referring to potency and effectiveness. It is already prevalent in the natural and raw cannabis plant, specifically within the concentrated trichomes. After decarboxylation, THCA is equivalent to Delta-9 THC and offers similar euphoric effects. Learn more about how THCA is converted to Delta-9 THC here!
Establishing your personal cannabis goals and tolerance can help you pinpoint the THCA products best suited for you and your needs! Pay attention to strains, sourcing, and concentration of THCA and other cannabinoids within each product before trying.
Know your limits, or get to know them by slow and steady gradual dosage increase. Set the tone of your high with good vibes and comfortable surroundings for the best launch to euphoria and when you’re ready give THCA a try!
Is THCA indica or sativa?
THCA is derived from raw cannabis plants. Therefore, THCA is found in each and every different strain of cannabis, as it IS the precursor to THC. You can find THCA products in a range of your favorite strains including indicas, sativas, or hybrids.
Is THCA stronger than marijuana?
Marijuana is THC and THCA is the precursor to THC – meaning that once heated THCA becomes THC. Therefore, one is not necessarily stronger or more potent than the other. The strength of THCA and marijuana depends on the strain, form of consumption, and dosage/potency.
How to get THCA out of your system
There is no foolproof way to remove THCA from your system. Just like THC, the amount of THCA in your body depends on how often you consume it, how much you consume, as well as the method of consumption, water intake, and potency. The only TRUE solution to ridding THCA from your system is stopping consumption and TIME.
What does THCA feel like?
Many users report feeling physical and mental relaxation when smoking or vaping THCA. There is a sense of euphoria and many also report mental clarity and mood enhancement. The level of relaxation and effects may differ based on the strain. An altered sense of perception such as time and enhanced visuals.
Is THCA addictive?
THCA is generally considered non-addictive. However, reliance on THCA for pain relief and mood enhancement could become a factor. Be sure to use THCA in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional for advice on dosage and when THCA is best used for wellness.
How potent is THCA?
The potency of THCA depends on many factors. THCA must undergo decarboxylation in order to release its psychoactive effects. Once THCA is smoked, vaped, or baked at the necessary temperature to unlock these effects, it is considered potent. THCA is also offered in different strains and forms of consumption allowing for it to come in a range of potency levels.
