Let’s break it down. THCA, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is the non-psychoactive precursor to THC, the compound in cannabis known for creating a euphoric high. When THCA is exposed to heat—like when you smoke, vape, or bake it—it converts into Delta-9 THC through a process called decarboxylation. That’s when the “high” kicks in.
So, if you’re consuming raw THCA (say, in a smoothie or capsule), it won’t cause intoxication. But if you’re sparking up some THCA flower from Uplift CBD, you’ll likely feel the effects associated with THC.
Key Takeaways
- THCA is non-psychoactive in its raw form, meaning it won’t get you high when eaten or applied topically
- Heating THCA transforms it into THC, which does produce a high
- Smoking or vaping THCA flower will get you high, just like traditional cannabis
- Raw THCA may have wellness potential for inflammation and nausea without intoxication
- Uplift CBD’s THCA products are 100% compliant and lab-tested for purity and potency
How Does THCA Work in the Body?
Unlike THC, THCA doesn’t bind well to CB1 receptors in your brain—the ones responsible for that iconic “stoned” feeling. That’s why raw THCA doesn’t make you feel euphoric or altered. But once you apply heat, it sheds a carboxyl group and transforms into Delta-9 THC, which does bind to those receptors and produces psychoactive effects.
Think of it like baking cookie dough. Raw dough (THCA) isn’t quite the final product—but once it’s baked (THC), you’ve got a whole different experience.
Should You Choose THCA Over THC?
It depends on your goals. If you’re looking for therapeutic benefits without getting high, raw THCA might be your best friend. But if you’re lighting up flower, just know that THCA will convert into something much stronger—so it’s definitely not “non-psychoactive” at that point.
At Uplift CBD, we carry premium THCA flower for those who want a potent, clean experience, with full COAs and third-party testing on every batch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can THCA make you high if eaten raw?
No. THCA in its raw form is non-psychoactive. - Does smoking THCA get you high?
Yes. When heated, THCA converts to THC and will produce a high. - Is THCA legal in the U.S.?
Federally, yes—if it contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. State laws vary. - Can THCA be used for medical purposes?
Early studies suggest THCA may help with inflammation, nausea, and neuroprotection. - Is THCA flower the same as weed?
It’s hemp-derived and legal under the Farm Bill—but when smoked, it acts just like high-THC cannabis.
Got more questions? Call 727-498-8543 or stop by Uplift CBD on 2nd Ave S in St. Petersburg, FL—we’re happy to help.
This article was written by a CBD Specialist at Uplift CBD. At Uplift CBD, we strive to provide our customers with the highest level of satisfaction by providing the best quality products.
We source our naturally occurring cannabinoids from only premium USA hemp farms. Our THCA Flower is hand-made and carefully formulated to promote a legal, safe alternative to Delta 9 marijuana. They are grown and extracted in the USA. Because our CBD products are 100% natural and derived from the Non-GMO industrial hemp plant, they are legal for sale across all 50 states of the USA. Independently lab tested for purity and concentration; no other company has the quality and quantity of natural cannabinoids in our products for the same value! Shop our products today!