What is the difference between THC-A and Delta 8?

THC-A and Delta 8 THC are both cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, but they have distinct chemical structures and properties that result in different effects on the body. THC-A is the precursor to THC, and all of the THC in marijuana plants starts out as THC-A. As the plant grows and matures, or when it is exposed to heat or light, the THC-A that is naturally present converts into THC, which is an essential step for unlocking the psychoactive properties of THC. From that point on, THC-A is equivalent to “traditional” THC, which means it can cause feelings of euphoria, enhanced creativity, increased appetite, relaxation, stimulation, or, on the downside, occasional paranoia. Since THC-A converts directly to THC it is reasonable to assume that, milligram for milligram, they are roughly equivalent in strength.

Delta 8 THC, on the other hand, is a mildly psychoactive compound found in much smaller amounts in the cannabis plant. Both Delta 8 and THC-A are naturally occurring, but there is much less Delta 8 present naturally. Like THC-A, Delta 8 is similar to “traditional” THC (also called Delta 9 THC), but it has a slightly different chemical structure and generally milder effects. Chemically, Delta 8 THC is non-acidic, while THC-A is an acidic version of the THC molecule, but the more important difference for this discussion is the effects the two deliver. Until heated, THC-A does not have psychoactive effects and will not make you feel uplifted or hazy. After heating however, it converts directly into THC, and is therefore approximately as intoxicating, milligram for milligram, as its much more famous, 420-friendly cousin. Delta 8 THC also has noticeable psychoactive effects, but they are generally not as strong as traditional Delta 9 THC or as strong as THC-A is after it has been decarboxylated. Relaxation, reduced difficulty falling asleep, diminished anxiety, enhanced creativity, heightened mood, and increased appetite are all commonly reported, but on a milligram to milligram basis Delta 8 is estimated to be approximately half as potent as THC.

What is the legal status of THC-A?

THC-A is one of the several cannabinoids created from hemp that are federally legal in the United States. The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp, defined as cannabis and derivatives of cannabis with extremely low concentrations of the psychoactive compound, Delta 9 THC, from the definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. Specifically, the Farm Bill defines legal hemp as containing no more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis.

Here are Delta8 Minds, we are very conscious of the legal status of all of our products. Absolutely everything sold on delta8minds.com is third-party lab tested to ensure both the safety and legality of our products. Individual states may have their own laws regarding THC-A, so always check to make sure you are in compliance with the laws and regulations in your area.

Also, please note: Delta8 Minds is currently unable to ship THC-A products to the following states: Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington.

Is THC-A safe?

Because THC-A is present in relatively large concentrations in traditionally farmed cannabis plants, it’s safe to say that it is at least as safe as THC and cannabis are. It’s important to remember, this is not a molecule that was created in a lab, it is a naturally occurring part of the hemp plant, and people have been ingesting it in one form or another for thousands of years. Nonetheless, users should take precautions, especially if they have pre-existing mental health conditions or take medications regularly, and the psychoactive effects that come with THC-A should be expected and prepared for. Fortunately most unwanted side effects are relatively mild. Things like dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, or impaired memory are normal and to be expected, while pleasant effects such as enhanced creativity, boosted mood, increased appetite, relaxation, and alleviation of stress are things that many people will enjoy.

Significantly, the 2018 Farm Bill explicitly preserved the FDA’s authorities over hemp products. Therefore, hemp products must meet any applicable FDA requirements and standards, just like any other FDA-regulated product. For example, the FDA’s existing authorities over foods, dietary supplements, human and veterinary drugs, and cosmetics all apply to hemp products to the extent such hemp products fall within those categories. These safeguards around testing and proper labeling help ensure that Americans have access to safe and accurately labeled hemp products, and, in the case of drugs, that patients can depend on the effectiveness of these products.

To further ensure the quality and safety of THC-A products, consumers should buy from reputable and trustworthy brands that follow good manufacturing practices, provide comprehensive third-party test results, and disclose their production and testing methods. Here at Delta8 Minds we work exclusively with the top brands in the industry to ensure safe and consistent manufacturing practices, and all of our products are ALWAYS third party lab tested for purity and potency. Without proper lab testing, consumers may be at risk of consuming harmful contaminants or inaccurate doses of THC-A or other cannabinoids. Lab testing also provides information on the potency and purity of a product, allowing consumers to make informed decisions about its use. This is why we here at Delta8 Minds proudly display third party lab test results for EVERY product we sell. Please refer to our Lab Reports page to see more.

What is decarboxylation of THC-A?

Decarboxylation is a chemical reaction that removes a carboxyl group (COOH) from a molecule. In the context of cannabis, decarboxylation is a critical step to activate the psychoactive properties of the cannabinoids present in the plant, like THC and CBD. Raw hemp and cannabis plants contain relatively high concentrations of THC-A (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) and CBD-A (cannabidiolic acid), which are the non-psychoactive precursors of THC and CBD. When you heat cannabis flower through smoking, vaporizing, or cooking, you remove a carboxyl group from THC-A and CBD-A, converting them into their activated chemical forms, THC and CBD. The same goes for other cannabinoid acids. These activated chemical forms are capable of interacting with the endocannabinoid system of the human brain and body. It’s the decarboxylation process that delivers the “high” and the therapeutic relief many cannabis consumers seek.

Potential Side Effects and Safety

Measures

Consult with a healthcare professional before using THC-A if you have any medical conditions or take medications regularly.

Exercise caution if you have mental health issues, as THC-A may affect your mood and cognition.

Avoid consuming more than needed, as THC-A may cause anxiety, paranoia, or feeling overwhelmed.