What’s the Hype About THCA Hemp Flower?
When shopping for a hemp product, you may find the name THCA listed on smokable hemp flower. Unlike CBG and CBN smokable hemp flower, this minor cannabinoid specific flower offers something different. THCA has become a popular cannabinoid in recent years thanks to minor cannabinoid focused production and an uptick in research to better determine what this unique cannabinoid can offer us.
What is THCA?
Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, most commonly known as THCA, is one of the hundreds of cannabinoids that can be found within the hemp plant. It is also known as the precursor to THC, however, is non-psychoactive until exposed to heat.
THCA has a variety of properties that have made this cannabinoid gain the interest of the scientific and medical communities. For instance, THCA’s anti-inflammatory property has been shown to alleviate symptoms in colon models caused by Inflammatory Bowel Disease. In a 2017 study, researchers found “It is suggested that the anti-inflammatory activity of Cannabis extracts on colon epithelial cells derives from a fraction of the extract that contains THCA, and is mediated, at least partially, via GPR55 receptor.”
Similarly, in a 2021 study published by researchers in Spain, results found, “[THCA] significantly reduced body weight and adiposity, improved glucose tolerance, and drastically attenuated DIO-induced liver fibrosis and immune cell infiltration.”
THCA also offers properties such as appetite stimulation and relaxation. Current research suggests that THCA, in conjunction with other cannabinoids, could assist individuals who exhibit adverse symptoms from cancer treatments. According to researchers at the Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Products at Hebrew University in Jerusalem, cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system can help improve appetite and combat weight loss.
Why THCA Flower?
When looking for hemp flower, THCA hemp flower may be found right alongside CBG and CBD smokable flower. However, smokable THCA hemp flower has gained popularity for several reasons. First and foremost is that it is still considered hemp under federal guidelines. As long as the dry weight of the hemp flower tests under the required .3% THC threshold, it is considered hemp.
Second, smokable THCA flower offers more variety to consumers who prefer smoking to other methods of consumption. THCA flower can be consumed using pipes, one-hitters, and other traditional smoking methods. This method especially is popular with those who prefer traditional smoking methods over new methods such as vapes.
Finally, THCA flower is popular due to its more “all-natural” ascetic. For many individuals, smokable hemp flower appeals to individuals who may not enjoy edibles or other methods like vapes. Smokable hemp, including THCA hemp flower, offers something to a very specific niche of consumer.
How does THCA flower work?
Don’t let the fancy name scare you off, smoking hemp derived THCA flower is simpler than one may think. THCA is popular due to a chemical reaction that takes place when you introduce heat to the THCA cannabinoid. On its own, THCA is non-psychoactive. However, when heat is introduced, the reaction converts THCA into THC.
Where to find Smokable Hemp Flower
Looking for smokable hemp flower? Visit your local Hemp and CBD Retailer to learn more about the selection of Hemp Flower available in your area.
