Frequently Asked Questions


What is THCa?

THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in raw cannabis. It’s the chemical precursor to Delta-9 THC—the compound known for producing the traditional cannabis “high.” On its own, THCa is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t get you high unless it’s heated. When exposed to high temperatures (like smoking or vaping), THCa converts into Delta-9 THC through a process called decarboxylation, unlocking its euphoric effects.

What Does THCa Do?

Once activated by heat, THCa binds to your body’s CB1 and CB2 receptors—similar to Delta-9 THC—producing psychoactive effects. Many users report benefits such as:

  • Pain relief

  • Reduced nausea

  • Anxiety relief

  • Appetite stimulation

  • Neuroprotective support

Raw THCa (unheated) is being studied for potential therapeutic effects without the high, offering a more functional cannabis experience.

What is THCa Flower?

THCa flower is raw, unprocessed cannabis that’s rich in THCa and has not yet been exposed to heat. It looks, smells, and feels like traditional cannabis—but it won’t get you high until it’s smoked, vaped, or otherwise heated. Because of this, THCa flower provides a legal way to enjoy cannabis-like effects in many states, including Texas.

How is THCa Flower Made?

THCa flower is not chemically made—it’s grown. Cultivators carefully tend cannabis plants to preserve high levels of THCa while enhancing flavor and aroma through the terpene profile. Once harvested, the flower is trimmed, cured, and packaged for sale.

To unlock its psychoactive potential, THCa flower needs decarboxylation—which happens when you apply heat (like with a lighter or vape). This process converts the THCa into Delta-9 THC and delivers the effects consumers expect.


What is THCa vs. THC?

THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are chemically related but affect the body differently. THCa is the raw, non-psychoactive form found in live cannabis. It contains an extra carboxyl group that prevents it from binding to the brain’s cannabinoid receptors. This means THCa won’t get you high in its natural state.

When THCa is heated (through smoking, vaping, or dabbing), it undergoes decarboxylation, removing that carboxyl group and converting into Delta-9 THC—the compound responsible for euphoric and psychoactive effects.

What Are the Benefits of THCa?

Once activated, THCa offers many of the same therapeutic benefits as Delta-9 THC. These include:

  • Pain relief

  • Anti-inflammatory effects

  • Nausea reduction

  • Appetite stimulation

  • Improved focus and mood

Many consumers also appreciate the range of THCa flower strains, each offering unique terpene profiles and effects—from calm and relaxed (like Mendo Breath) to uplifted and focused (like Amnesia Haze or Jokerz Candy).

Is THCa Legal?

Under the 2018 Farm Bill, cannabis flower with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight is considered federally legal hemp. THCa meets this requirement, making it legal at the federal level.

How Long Does THCa Stay in Your System?

THCa, once consumed and converted into THC, behaves like other cannabinoids in the body. Detection times can vary based on your usage, metabolism, and method of consumption:

  • Urine: Up to 30 days (heavy users), ~1 week (occasional users)

  • Blood: Up to 48 hours

  • Saliva: 24–48 hours

  • Hair: Up to 90 days