Does THCa Get You High?
Yes! THCa is the chemical precursor to Delta-9 THC.
THC is the most well-known and researched cannabinoid because of its psychoactive effects, but it actually starts as THCa. So, does THCa get you high? Not on its own—it needs heat to activate its psychoactive effects!
Once heated, THCa can get you high. Keep reading to learn how it works, the best ways to consume it, and how long the effects last.
What is THCA?
Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in fresh cannabis plants. It’s actually the most abundant cannabinoid in raw cannabis.
It’s the precursor to psychoactive THC, the famous compound that gets you high. That means if you eat fresh cannabis leaves or buds, you won’t feel high.
Decarboxylation: How THCA Turns Into THC
Decarboxylation — or “decarbing” — is a chemical reaction that removes a carboxyl group (COOH) from a molecule. A fancy sciency-sounding word saying “apply heat.”
When THCA is exposed to heat, it loses a tiny part of its molecular structure, called a carboxyl group. This process converts THCA into THC, the compound responsible for the classic cannabis euphoric high.
Look at it this way: It’s like popping popcorn—raw kernels won’t do much, but once they hit the heat, they transform into something completely different.
It’s the decarboxylation process that delivers the high or therapeutic relief many cannabis consumers seek.
What Affects Decarboxylation?
How THCa turns into THC depends on three key factors:
- Temperature: The hotter it gets, the faster THCA converts to THC.
- Time: If the heat is lower, you’ll need to wait longer for decarboxylation.
- Method: Different ways of heating (smoking, vaping, baking) affect how much THCA turns into THC.
Ways to Decarb THCA
- Smoking THCA Flower – When you light up the THCA flower, the instant heat quickly converts THCA to THC as you inhale.
- Vaping THCA – Vaporizers heat THCA just enough to activate THC without burning the flower, offering a smoother, cleaner experience.
- Dabbing THCA Concentrates – THCA diamonds or crystalline can be dabbed at high heat, providing a powerful THC hit in seconds.
- Baking for Edibles – If you want THC-infused edibles, you need to bake cannabis at a low temp (around 220-240°F for 30-45 minutes) before cooking with it.
Whether you smoke, vape, dab, or bake, heating THCA is the key to unlocking its effects. So, if you’re looking for a high, bring the heat!
How to Get High: THCA Consumption Methods
Smoking THCA Flower
Smoking THCA-rich flower is one of the most popular ways to get high. Just grind it up, roll a joint, or pack a bowl and light it up.
- Heat instantly converts THCA to THC
- Effects hit within minutes
- High lasts 1-3 hours
Best for: Those who want a fast, classic cannabis experience.
Dabbing THCA Concentrates
If you want something extra potent, dabbing THCA concentrates (like diamonds or crystalline) is the way to go. You’ll need a dab rig and a torch to heat the concentrate to high temps.
- Extreme heat - Instant conversion of THCA to THC
- Effects are super strong & hit fast
- High lasts 1-4 hours
Best for: Experienced users looking for a powerful high.
Vaping THCA
Vaping THCA is a smooth, lung-friendly option. It heats the cannabis flower or concentrate to the perfect temp, turning THCA into THC without burning the material.
- Controlled heat - Efficient THC conversion
- Effects start within minutes
- High lasts 1-3 hours
Best for: Those who want a cleaner, more controlled high.
Eating THCA Edibles
Raw THCA won’t get you high, but once it’s baked or cooked, it turns into THC-infused edibles. Think THCA brownies, gummies, and tinctures.
- Heat in baking - Full THCA conversion to THC
- Takes 30-90 minutes to kick in
- High lasts 4-8 hours
Best for: Those who want a longer-lasting, body-focused high.
Which THCA Consumption Method is Right for You?
- Want a quick high? - Smoke or vape THCA flower
- Want something strong? - Dab THCA concentrates
- Prefer smooth hits? - Vape THCA
- Want long-lasting effects? - Eat THCA edibles
No matter how you consume it, THCA delivers a potent THC experience when heated. Pick the method that fits your vibe, and enjoy the ride!
How Long Does THCA High Last?
So, you’ve just enjoyed some THCA flower, a dab, or an edible, and now you’re wondering—how long will this high last?
Well, it depends on a few things:
- How you consumed it – Smoking, vaping, dabbing, or eating all have different effects.
- Your tolerance – If you use THC often, the high might not last as long.
- Your metabolism – Some people process THC faster than others.
Let’s break it down!
Potential Benefits of THCA?
THCA isn’t just about getting high. It also has some great benefits for fun and wellness.
Recreational Benefits
Looking for a better cannabis experience? THCA can help!
- Mood Booster – This can help you feel happy and relaxed.
- Creativity Enhancer – May spark fresh ideas and inspiration.
- Deep Relaxation – Perfect for unwinding after a long day.
- Sensory Amplifier – Music, food, and colors may feel more intense.
Does THCA Show Up on a Drug Test?
Yes! Once THCA is heated and turns into THC, it will show up on a drug test. If you have an upcoming test, avoiding THCA products is best.
Where to Buy THCA Products?
For high-quality THCA flower, concentrates, and edibles, shop at Super Greens:
- Lab Tested: All products are third-party tested for purity and potency, with a COA available for every purchase.
- Wide Selection: Choose from a variety of THCA strains and products, including flower, concentrates, carts, pre-rolls, and gummies.
- Expert Advice: Our friendly staff is here to help with any questions or recommendations.
- Discounts: Enjoy regular promotions to save on premium products.
- Great Value: Competitive pricing without compromising quality.
FAQs:
How Does THCA Convert to THC and Cause a High?
THCa converts to THC through a process called decarboxylation. It doesn’t get you high in its raw form. But when you heat it (by smoking, vaping, or baking), it loses a carboxyl group (decarboxylation).
What’s the Best Way to Use THCA?
It depends on how you want to feel! If you want a fast, intense high, try smoking, dabbing, or vaping. For a longer-lasting effect, go with THCA-infused edibles. Want the wellness benefits without getting high? Try consuming raw THCA in juices or tinctures.
What Is the Difference Between THCA and THC in Terms of Psychoactive Effects?
THCA is non-psychoactive in its natural state. It won’t make you high unless you heat it. Once converted to THC, it activates cannabinoid receptors in the brain, producing euphoria, relaxation, and altered perception.
Is THCA Legal to Buy Online?
Yes—in most places! THCA from hemp-derived cannabis is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, but state laws vary. Some states restrict THCA, so check your local rules before ordering.
Is THCA Safe to Smoke?
Yes, as long as it’s high-quality and tested. Always buy from trusted dispensaries like Super Greens ECOM to ensure you get pure, clean THCA flower.
Is 30% THCA Strong?
Absolutely! A 30% THCA flower converts to high-potency THC, making it one of the most potent strains available. Expect intense effects—great for seasoned users but too strong for beginners.
Does Super Greens Offer a Wide Range of THCA Flower Strains?
Yes! SuperGreens offers a wide selection of THCa strains and cannabis products! Shop our selection of THCa strains today!