faqs
Drug tests don’t screen for THCa itself, but they do usually look for delta-9 THC. And, since THCa becomes delta-9 THC when you consume it (via heating), it most likely will make you fail a drug test. Even products made with delta-8 THC or CBD can cause issues, as they often have trace amounts of delta-9 THC that can build up in the body over time.
If you want to be sure you’ll pass a drug test, it’s probably best to skip the THCa altogether. If you can’t resist or are stuck in a pinch, a THC detox might be able to help you out.
Think of THCa as delta-9 THC’s parent. Without THCa, we wouldn’t get delta-9 THC – or we’d at least be limited to trace amounts of it that might naturally show up in plants. THCa’s atomic structure changes when it’s exposed to heat, changing some of its bonds until it becomes the delta-9 THC we know and love. THCa can also break down into other cannabinoids.
Explore more information on the difference between THC and THCa here.
Most people find that THCa (and, by extension, delta-9 THC) affects them more significantly than delta-8 does. Because THCa turns into just plain THC when heated up, it’s really more fair to directly compare the effects of delta 8 and delta 9. Still, your experiences might be different from others; everyone reacts to each cannabinoid differently.
There really is no such thing as a single strongest THCa strain. The same strain could have different potency levels across batches, brands, or even individual buds. Some well-known strains, like Runtz or Gelato, are known for their potency and powerful effects. However, you’ll have to do some digging when exploring the strains available to you to find the strongest option.
It’s difficult to say which THCa vape is the strongest because there are so many factors that affect perceived strength: the dose of THCa, the product type, whether other cannabinoids are present, the terpene profile, your biology and tolerance, etc. Some of the strongest options on the market can have thousands of milligrams of THCa per vape, though. The brand Binoid, for instance, offers a seven-gram vape cart!
Yes, THCa vapes work in terms of delivering effects and getting you high. How much it takes for the effects to work on you can vary based on your tolerance and method of consumption. It’s best to start with one hit of your vape and wait at least 30 minutes to see your reaction. Then, slowly work your way up to higher doses until you hit your ideal point. Remember that moderation is key, and more doesn’t equal better.
Yes, you can fail a drug test if you consume THCa, and if you consume it regularly, you probably will fail. That’s because cannabinoids like THC build up in our bodies over time; they’re fat soluble and can be nestled away in your body’s fat stores, slowly breaking down over weeks or even months. The more build up there is, the longer it will take to not fail a drug test.
You can circumvent this by opting for non-THCa products or trying a THC detox. But if you’re going to lose your job or face serious consequences for failing a drug test, it’s not worth it. Just pass on the THCa for now and try something else that won’t cause issues.
THCa vape carts are generally safe, though it’s always possible that the ingredients in a vape cart’s oil might be irritating to your lungs, particularly if you have a chronic condition like COPD or asthma. If you’re concerned you should check out the third-party lab results (certificate of analysis, or COA) for your product to see what’s in it. It’s also a good idea to check with your doctor before you start using THCa vapes or any other kind of cannabis product.
Yes, THCa can and will cause a high, though it’s probably more accurate to say that the cannabinoids it turns into, like THC, are really the cause of the psychoactive effects. Still, if you pick up anything with THCa on the label, you can expect to blast off into the clouds – how far you go depends on your dose.
When exposed to heat, THCa, the predecessor to other forms of THC, can turn into delta 9. This process, known as decarboxylation, happens anytime a person smokes flower or toasts it up to make some edibles. It’s a necessary part of making compounds like delta 9 available.
Most people feel the effects of a delta-9 vape hit within seconds to minutes. However, it usually takes around 15-30 minutes for those effects to peak. You’ll likely feel them for about 3-4 hours total, depending on your dose and tolerance.
Most delta-9 vapes will last for about a year or two when stored properly (i.e., in cool, dark conditions). After that timeframe, it’s possible that the cannabinoids and other organic compounds inside will begin to degrade and lose their potency.
Yes, delta-9 THC will get you high, at least if you consume enough of it. The cannabinoid has psychoactive properties caused by the way it binds to receptors in your brain and body. THC can not only get you high, but it can also boost your appetite, lessen the severity of pain, and help you sleep.
Want to learn more? We literally wrote the book on how to get high using your favorite cannabis products. Check out our tips here.
Most delta-9 gummies take effect within about 30-60 minutes and produce effects that can last from four to eight hours or longer. In some cases, gummies can impact your brain and body for up to 12 hours! It all depends on your tolerance, individual metabolism, and the dose you consumed.
New to edibles and gummies? Learn more about how long being high lasts to curate the perfect experience.
Yes, delta-9 THC does get you stoned, whether it’s derived from marijuana or hemp. Delta-9 THC is the same cannabinoid that’s considered a federally illegal controlled substance – at least when it’s found in marijuana plants. Hemp-derived delta 9 offers a legal alternative that delivers the same effects without the drawbacks or risk.
