Navigating the complexities of cannabis purchasing solely based on THC percentage might seem like a logical approach. After all, higher THC levels generally suggest a stronger high, right? However, this isn’t always the case.

Consumers are often misled, and the cannabis industry suffers as a result. We understand that changing people’s minds can be challenging, especially when there’s an ego attached to selecting products based on THC content. Our goal is to provide education to those open to listening, empowering you to spend your money wisely, avoid scams, and contribute to positive changes in the industry.

Let’s delve into the science behind THC and uncover important truths that savvy cannabis consumers should consider.

Understanding THC:

Distribution and Limits: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. However, it’s primarily concentrated in trichome heads—those small, shiny structures on cannabis buds. It’s important to note that an entire cannabis flower cannot consist solely of trichome heads. Therefore, the maximum THC content in a strain is around 35% by dry weight, with high-THC strains typically ranging from 18-30%. The theoretical maximum for flower is around 34%, because other components of the plant must be present such as proteins and minerals. Be very skeptical if you see anything higher than 34%. Here is an example of a product that is misleading customers:

Degradation Over Time: THC degrades over time, transforming into other compounds like CBN and CBG, which doesn’t produce the same high. Proper storage in airtight containers, away from light and at a stable temperature, is crucial to preserving potency. Be mindful of the harvest date when evaluating THC percentages.

Plant Variability: Cannabis plants are not uniform. Factors like light exposure and position on the plant can influence trichome production, affecting THC levels. Laboratories test small samples, so variations within strains are expected. Samples are taken from the top, middle and bottom of the plant. These percentages are then averaged to get an overall test of the entire plant and strain. Your purchase could contain bud from only the top or just the bottom of the plant. So, keep in mind this number is not set in stone.

Testing Integrity: There have been instances of fraudulent practices in testing, with labs and farmers manipulating results to inflate THC percentages. Be cautious of claims exceeding 30% THC and look for transparency in testing protocols.

Genetic Factors: Genetics play a significant role in THC potency. Sudden spikes in THC levels for traditional strains warrant scrutiny. Consumers should question inconsistencies in reported THC percentages.

Entourage Effect: High-THC strains often lack other beneficial compounds like CBD and terpenes due to competition within trichomes. The entourage effect, where multiple compounds enhance each other’s effects, may be more pronounced in balanced strains.

Trimming Impact: Trimming practices can affect THC content. Machine trimming or overhandling can lead to trichome loss, impacting potency.

Recommendations for Savvy Consumers:

• Look beyond THC percentages. Consider aroma, flavor, and overall effect.
• Familiarize yourself with reputable farms and their practices for consistency.
• Explore strains based on personal preferences, similar to selecting wine based on varietal and vintage.

Industry Impact:

The industry’s emphasis on THC levels may inadvertently promote the black market and overlook other quality indicators. Alternative approaches, such as highlighting terpenes and capping THC values for a more comprehensive view, could enhance consumer understanding and product diversity.

Focusing solely on percentages when buying is an oversimplified approach that can lead to disappointment. As a savvy consumer, consider factors beyond percentages, such as aroma, flavor, and the overall effect you seek, as terpenes and other cannabinoids play a HUGE factor in your overall experience.

The world of cannabis is complex and incredibly varied. The plant is filled with an array of compounds, each with distinct properties and effects. However, two cannabinoids that frequently spark discussion are Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). To those unfamiliar with the intricacies of cannabis chemistry, the difference between these two may seem negligible. Yet, the distinction is significant. So, let’s dive into the world of “THCA vs THC” and explore what separates these two compounds.

THCA: The Non-Psychoactive Precursor

Firstly, it’s important to understand that all cannabinoids, including THCA and THC, originate from Cannabigerolic Acid (CBGA). In the plant’s natural state, enzymes transform CBGA into three main cannabinoids, one of which is THCA like those found in Purple Runtz Hyrbid. Therefore, THCA is actually the precursor to THC, a relationship that is pivotal in understanding the “THCA vs THC” debate.

THCA is found in raw and live cannabis. Contrary to popular belief, if you were to consume raw cannabis, you wouldn’t experience the psychoactive effects often associated with THC. Why is that? Simply because THCA is a non-psychoactive compound. This means it doesn’t produce the “high” commonly linked with cannabis consumption. Instead, THCA like Gumbo THCA Indica has been associated with potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, although research is ongoing and more concrete evidence is needed.

Decarboxylation: The Transformation to THC

The transformation from THCA to THC occurs through a process called decarboxylation. This is essentially a fancy term for applying heat. When cannabis is smoked, vaped, or cooked, the heat causes THCA to lose a carboxyl group in the form of carbon dioxide. This decarboxylation turns THCA into THC, the psychoactive compound known and loved by many recreational and medicinal cannabis users.

THC: The Psychoactive Component

The key difference between THCA and THC, therefore, lies in their psychoactive properties. THC is the compound responsible for the intoxicating effects or the feeling of being “high” that follows cannabis consumption. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the human body, particularly the CB1 receptors in the brain, to produce its effects. THC has also been found to offer potential therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, appetite stimulation, and reduced nausea.

Usage and Consumption Differences

THCA and THC also differ in how they’re used and consumed. As mentioned earlier, THCA is present in raw cannabis like those found in Goon flower. Therefore, it can be consumed directly from the plant, used in juicing, or included in raw cannabis edibles. THC, on the other hand, requires heat for activation, making it the predominant cannabinoid in smoked or vaporized cannabis and cooked or baked edibles.

Legal Considerations

In terms of legality, both THCA and THC fall under the same category. Despite THCA being non-psychoactive, it’s still considered a controlled substance in many jurisdictions because of its potential to convert into THC. However, with the evolving landscape of cannabis laws, it’s always wise to stay updated with the current legal status in your region.

Our online and in person stores in Charlotte, NC carry THCA flower that is Hemp Based. Due to the Farm Bill in 2018, our products are legal to purchase online. Shop our legal THCA flower here.

Conclusion:

In summary, the “THCA vs THC” debate essentially comes down to understanding the transition from one compound to the other. THCA is the non-psychoactive precursor found in raw cannabis, offering potential therapeutic benefits without the high. On the other hand, THC, derived from THCA through decarboxylation, provides the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis alongside its own set of potential medicinal advantages.

Understanding the difference between THCA and THC can help consumers make more informed decisions about their cannabis use, whether for recreational or medicinal purposes. As the cannabis industry continues to evolve and research expands, our comprehension of these compounds and their effects will only become more nuanced, helping users to maximize the benefits of this versatile plant.

Four Easy and Effective Ways to Add Hemp CBD Into Your Wellness Routine

Are you tired of hearing how important it is to incorporate that natural product or ingredient into your wellness routine? If you are, we don’t blame you. The wellness market is oversaturated with so many must-haves and, after a while, you start to feel numb to new and actually helpful products. If you are picky about adding new products into your daily routine, you might have been skeptical about including hemp-derived CBD. Reports show that one in seven Americans uses CBD-based products, primarily for pain, anxiety, and sleeplessness. However, the vast majority of Americans don’t understand the incredible advantages this component offers.

Many know about the use of CBD solely in the form of tincture or oil but the market offers various interesting ways to benefit from this component. But, before we get into the practical ways to include hemp-derived CBD into your wellness routine, let’s discuss the why behind this component.

Why Should CBD Be an Important Part of Your Wellness Routine?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychotropic compound found in the hemp plant. CBD became such a popular compound in the wellness world because it’s a powerhouse that wakes up the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). According to studies, the endocannabinoid system is a newly-discovered system of receptors “scattered” all around the body and the brain. The ECS maintains the homeostasis (balance) of the human organism by playing a significant role in regulating the immune system, mood, appetite, pain sensation, and more.

For centuries, people have been using marijuana for medicinal purposes. Today, people are avoiding the plant because of its high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychotropic component in cannabis. With CBD, it’s an entirely different story because this component does not create any psychotropic effect, or get the user “high.” CBD does have psychoactive effects (different from psychotropic), which means it has the power to drive change in the body without getting the user stoned.

Four Easy and Effective Ways to Incorporate CBD into Your Wellness Routine

1. CBD Bath Bombs for Relaxation and Sleep

Exhausted after a long day? If you are an avid user of bath bombs (they are kind of addicting), consider switching from a “regular” to a CBD-infused bath bomb. CBD helps relax your entire body, so you are guaranteed a chill and quiet evening followed by a good night’s rest. This potent and natural CBD bath bomb will help you relax and heal at the same time. Formulated with a powerful combination of natural ingredients, this vegan CBD bath bomb brings up to 50mg of healing CBD into your bathtub.

Soak your skin in the soothing properties of CBD and shea butter, perfect for moisturizing and protecting your skin. The anti-inflammatory effects of CBD will calm your skin and give it a much-needed break from all of the daily stressors.

Winding down after a long day or long week is vital for your wellbeing. Wash off all of the negative events of the day with our natural, additive-free bath bombs. We promise you, you won’t find a better product for your bathtub nighttime wellness routine.

1. CBD Tincture to Jumpstart Your Morning

Primarily used to help anxiety and pain, CBD tinctures have great absorption rates — if taken sublingually (under the tongue) — and provide you with a long-lasting dose to help you jumpstart the day. CBD tinctures are everywhere, but not all of them are made equal. Kanna CBD’s Vitality CBD Tincture contains 1000 mg of full-spectrum hemp extract. The reason why you should always go for full-spectrum CBD products is that they contain an abundance of hemp cannabinoids, terpenes, and other nutrients naturally found in the hemp plant.

According to research, the more components your CBD oil contains, the more potent it is. If the tincture you are getting is rich in various hemp compounds, they will work together to create a more powerful effect, also known as the “entourage effect.” This effect will not be initiated if you are using a CBD oil that contains CBD as its only ingredient and has no terpenes. Terpenes play a major role in the potency and effectiveness of a CBD extract. For example, limonene is a hemp terpene also found in citrus fruits like oranges and lemons and is considered a strong mood booster that can relieve stress and anxiety due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Therefore, our Vitality CBD Tincture is enriched with organic coconut oil, organic hempseed oil, and the terpene limonene.

1. Healthy Skin with CBD Birch Tar Recovery Bar

Traditionally used for treating acne, skin irritation, and discoloration, this Birch Tar Bar is pure African Black Soap infused with CBD and Sea Clay, making a powerful anti-inflammatory and antiseptic combo. Coming straight from nature, the African Black Soap’s drying properties have an immediate effect on skin irritations. If you are dealing with common skin conditions, you should try a different approach to the usual treatments or add this natural CBD-infused product to your routine.

The Sea Clay will hydrate and moisturize your skin, which makes this product perfect for dry skin or skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema. In fact, one study revealed that the use of black soap helps reduce symptoms of various dermatological conditions. Although more research is needed on the connection between CBD and skin health, some studies show positive results. A study that evaluated the health of the skin before administration of a topical CBD ointment found that the CBD-enriched ointment without THC can significantly improve the lives of patients with certain skin disorders.

1. Pain Relief with CBD Cooling Gel

As we get older, our bodies become less flexible and more prone to different injuries, pains, and aches. Having a product that helps your muscles and joints heal faster after exercise, long hours of sitting, or acute back, neck, or shoulder injury, can greatly improve your wellbeing. This CBD-infused cooling gel is a powerful formula that provides quick relief from sore and tired muscles, tight spots, and back pain. Ideal for both regular and occasional use, this CBD cooling gel will give you a pleasant massage on the affected area and instantly ease inflamed spots and acute upper and lower back pain. No more tension with this CBD cooling gel as the product addresses a specific area directly.

How does the gel work? When you are using CBD topicals such as this cooling gel, the CBD doesn’t reach the bloodstream but gets absorbed through the skin’s surface where the cannabinoids in the gel interact with the cannabinoid receptors located in the skin. It’s important to note that the skin has low permeability, meaning it only absorbs a small percentage of topicals. So, to increase the effect of CBD cooling gel to the skin, regular use is essential.

Considering the amount of new natural products that promise to boost your wellbeing, you might be skeptical about adding a new one. But, with all of the benefits hemp-derived CBD products offer to the endocannabinoid system, adding at least one CBD product to your routine might be game-changing in the long run. Routines are there to be shaken up and improved, so order your CBD product today and see how it works for you.

Kanna Collective is a Charlotte CBD company dedicated to bringing the purest, most high-quality CBD products on the market. All of our products are based on researched and studied best practices on hemp CBD.