THC-A (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid)

THC-A, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is a non-psychoactive compound found in raw cannabis. It’s the precursor to THC, the compound responsible for marijuana’s psychoactive effects. When cannabis is heated—through smoking, vaping, or cooking—THC-A transforms into THC via a process called decarboxylation. In its natural state, THC-A doesn’t produce a “high,” but it may have potential medical benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Essentially, THC-A is an inactive form of THC that becomes psychoactive only after it’s heated or processed.