When it comes to cannabinoids, most people are familiar with THC and CBD. However, there is another cannabinoid that is gaining attention for its potential health benefits: THC-A. THC-A, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is the precursor to THC and is found in raw cannabis. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at THC-A and its potential benefits.
What is THC-A?
THC-A is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is found in raw cannabis. When cannabis is heated or decarboxylated, THC-A is converted into THC, the cannabinoid responsible for the plant’s psychoactive effects. THC-A is not intoxicating on its own, but it does have potential therapeutic effects.
Potential Benefits of THC-A
While research on THC-A is still in its early stages, there are some potential benefits that have been identified. Here are a few:
- Anti-inflammatory: THC-A has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which could make it a potential treatment for conditions such as arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
- Neuroprotective: Studies have shown that THC-A may have neuroprotective effects, making it a potential treatment for conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
- Anti-nausea: THC-A has been shown to have anti-nausea properties, which could make it a potential treatment for nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy and other medical treatments.
- Appetite stimulation: THC-A has been shown to stimulate appetite, which could be beneficial for people with eating disorders or those undergoing medical treatments that suppress appetite.
Sources:
- Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344-1364.
- Rock, E. M., Kopstick, R. L., Limebeer, C. L., & Parker, L. A. (2013). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid reduces nausea‐induced conditioned gaping in rats and vomiting in Suncus murinus. British Journal of Pharmacology, 170(3), 641-648.
- Takeda, S., Okajima, S., Miyoshi, H., Yoshida, K., Okamoto, Y., Okada, T., & Amamoto, T. (2008). Cannabidiolic acid as a selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitory component in cannabis. Drug metabolism and disposition, 36(9), 1917-1921.