Unlike its popular cousin THC, THCA still remains a mystery to many. It is one of the over 100 different cannabinoids in cannabis plants. It is the acidic form of the THC. It will not provide intoxicating effects like its psychoactive counterparts. However, it still offers many therapeutic potential to the human body. So if you want to enjoy the benefits of cannabis without the high, the THCA cannabinoid is an ideal alternative.
The market continually evolves, and new THCA products keep emerging to fit the ever-changing customers’ preferences. You could consume the cannabinoid as THCA flower, THCA tinctures, THCA diamonds, THCA isolate, and THCA-infused edibles. As the market and technology keep evolving, there will be even more diverse ways to consume cannabinoids.
How THCA Works
THCA works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). To explain, we can describe the ECS as a network of receptors and neurotransmitters in the body. They maintain homeostasis and balance within the body.
The cannabinoid binds strongly to CB1 and CB2 receptors. However, its association is much weaker than THC due to the molecule’s shape. Because of this, it would not attach directly to the receptors. Instead, it interacts indirectly with other parts of the ECS to influence various physiological processes.
Some of the therapeutic benefits of THCA include:
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Do you suffer from inflammation?
Inflammation happens when the body reacts to infections, injuries, and toxins. It is a normal reaction to harmful stimuli. However, chronic inflammation can cause autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular conditions, and neurodegenerative disorders.
You can use THCA to treat inflammation. It affects the immune response to decrease signaling neurotransmitters that promote inflammation. It also increases the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines. A 2017 study on the anti-inflammatory activity of THCA revealed that the cannabinoid may help control the progression of inflammatory diseases.
Neuroprotective Properties
THCA can also protect the brain cells and supports brain function and health. It prevents inflammation and oxidative stress on the brain by eliminating free radicals that can cause oxidative damage.
This makes it a great treatment plan for neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington’s, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. Several studies have proven The effectiveness of THC’s neuroprotective properties.
Analgesic Properties
THCA can help people who suffer from pain get much-need relief. It provides analgesic effects to manage all types of pain, from chronic to neuropathic pain.
The pain-relieving effects comes due to its interaction with the ECS. This impacts the activities of the TRPV1 receptors – the receptors responsible for detecting and transmitting pain signals to the brain. This influences the transmission of pain signals within the neural circuits.
It may also alter the excitability of the pain-detecting neurons to reduce the intensity of the pain signals sent to the brain. The resultant effect helps people to feel less pain.
Antiemetic Properties
THCA shows therapeutic potential for treating nausea and vomiting. Its interaction with the receptors reduces the impacts of the brain’s vomiting centers – the brainstem and chemoreceptor trigger zones. This reduces the likelihood of vomiting.
Another way it produces an antiemetic effect is by influencing the signals that control the movement of food in the digestive system. This will help you to keep food down and prevent vomiting.
Antioxidant Activity
THCA also shows promising antioxidant properties. It can be helpful to combat oxidative stress caused by the imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body.
The cannabinoid neutralizes its effects of the oxygen species to prevent cellular damage and reduce the harmful effects of oxidative stress.
Final Thoughts: Using THCA for Physical Well-being
THCA can benefit many health conditions. It offers a holistic approach to healthcare. Compared to conventional treatment plans, it does not have adverse side effects or risk of addiction. So you can use it as a natural alternative to conventional treatment plans.
However, as with any natural remedy, it is crucial to seek the advice of healthcare professionals before you incorporate them into your wellness regimen. They can help you create a comprehensive wellness plan incorporating THCA to meet your needs and goals.
In conclusion, you should get your THCA product from a reputable source. Avoid unbranded products and only purchase products that come with third-party lab reports. This helps you ensure that you only use a pure and safe product.
