As CBD and THC companies continue to innovate specialty cannabis products with all the various naturally-derived cannabinoids and terpenes, you may or may not have heard about THCA. For those working in the hemp-derived THC space, your curiosity regarding THCA may include its potential benefits along with legality status. Before we dive into legality, let's take a closer look at some background information for THCA.
What Is THCA?
THCA, short for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that's believed to demonstrate certain therapeutic potential although research is still in its infancy. THCA is found in raw and live cannabis - as the plant dries and is exposed to heat through the process of carboxylation, THCA converts to THC. Anecdotal reports and preliminary research support THCA's promising therapeutic value ranging from anti-inflammatory relief to neuroprotective properties.
Is THCA Legal Federally?
While THCA is abundant in raw cannabis, those with access often juice live or freshly harvested plants to gain these potential benefits. But, is THCA legal federally? Can hemp-derived CBD companies include this cannabinoid in their products for distribution to all 50 states? THCA is not scheduled as a banned substance at the federal level. However, it is important to note that THCA may be considered an analog of THC.
For CBD companies interested in formulating with THCA, you'll need to consider a couple of things. No sample of THCA is completely free of THC - make sure that you're always abiding by the legal THC threshold of 0.3%. The THCA also must be hemp-derived. Since THCA converts to THC with heat exposure, you'll need to create non-activated, non-decarboxylated products in order to maintain the THCA content. Think teas and topicals. THCA oil is also achievable but will need to be extracted at room temperature to avoid THC conversion and will require storing the product at a very cold temperature. Make sure to take all of these things into consideration before working with an experienced formulator for your THCA-infused CBD product.
Work With the Nation's Trusted White Label CBD Company
Tenacious Labs Manufacturing is honored to be the trusted white label CBD company serving the nation. Our team of expert custom formulators and white label CBD manufacturers is always happy to help you with your cannabis product line. We're available to discuss all of your THCA needs and can help connect you with our trusted partners for sourcing the highest-quality cannabinoids. For more information regarding THCA, please contact us!
