Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA)

Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is the naturally occuring raw form of THC that is produced by the cannabis plant. In order to decarboxylate THCA into THC, cannabis must be heated. THCA, in fact, has two isoforms, called THCA-A and THCA-B. (Isoforms of a compound have the same atoms but are arranged differently.) THCA is considered non psychotropic and is also an anti-inflammatory agent. THCA affects a molecule called tumor necrosis factor alpha, which is a factor in certain autoimmune diseases such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis. THCA has been observed to be effective against some tumors, specifically skin tumors. Additionally, the use of THCA can benefit some forms of epilepsy.