For high-THCA flower to be federally legal in the U.S., it will need to originate from hemp plants. Hemp refers to a type of cannabis plant that contains 0.3% or less delta-9 THC content per weight or dry weight and was outlined by the 2018 Farm Bill in the USA, among other things. I should also note that if the third-party testing reveals a level of THCA over that amount, products with high THCA flower levels are not, in fact, legal.
Key Takeaways
- High THCA flower is federally legal if it comes from hemp and contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.
- Unless heated, it won’t get you high — so it’s safe for wellness use in its raw state.
- Smoking decarbs THCA to THC, so you have your good ol’ fashioned high.
- Its health benefits may include anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antioxidant effects.
- Local state laws will differ, so review those in your area to ensure compliance.
- Uplift CBD has premium lab-tested, high THCA-compliant flower that works.
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Is High THCA Flower Legal?
The legality of ultra-high THCA flower is one of the top questions we receive — and that’s valid, given the rules in place. The 2018 Farm Bill made hemp-derived products with only.3% delta-9 THC is legal at the federal level. Because THCA isn’t delta-9 THC and does not have a psychoactive effect on its own, high THCA raw flower usually falls within some or all of the federal guidelines.
It is federally legal, but it’s still up to your state. In some states, simply because it has the potential to become THC, they have elected to regulate or ban it. Of course, note that you should verify your state’s laws before buying, as always.
The Difference Between THCA and Marijuana
When taken all together, high THCA flower and weed appear almost identical at first glance. But most of the difference is in the amount of delta-9 THC.
- THCA flower is high in THCA and low in delta-9 THC (the psychoactive component of cannabis that causes a “high” effect) at less than 0.3%, making it federally legal.
- Cannabis usually contains 15 to 30% THC and is psychoactive, being subject to a separate set of laws.
When high THCA flower is decarboxylated by smoking or vaporizing, the THCA converts into THC and produces an experience identical to marijuana in terms of psychoactive effects. But raw is definitely not the only way you can get the most out of the plant, and it won’t get you high if you add cannabis to your smoothie or take a tincture. If you are searching for a legitimate alternative that replicates the THC effect but would prefer to remain compliant, high THCA flower could be one for you. Just watch out for drug testing and local laws.
Potential Benefits of High THCA Flower
Though research is only beginning to flower around THCA, early studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that high-THCA flower can produce a range of wellness benefits:
- Anti-inflammatory: There’s a little bit of research suggesting that THCA has anti-inflammatory properties, which would be useful for things like arthritis or other autoimmune conditions.
- A boost from antioxidants: THCA may even collaborate with the body’s natural endocannabinoids, and should help in reducing oxidative damage, which is one of nature’s aging and disease-provoking agents.
- Appetite stimulant / Antiemetic: THCA may be as much or more of an appetite stimulant than oral THC, and perhaps a stronger anti-nausea/anti-vomiting agent.
- Mood stabilization: Raw cannabis THCA flowers are non-psychoactive, but it has a reputation for promoting relaxation and emotional equilibrium.
Worth noting that despite promising early results, THCA remains understudied. If you are considering using high-THCA flower for wellness, we recommend consulting a physician.
The Downsides of Smoking High THCA Flower
Smoking high-THCA flower may not be for everyone, despite the benefits. But here are some potential downsides:
- Legal ambiguity: Even if THCA is federally legal, certain states may restrict this cannabinoid because it can transform into THC.
- Lung irritation: Smoking of any plant material can irritate the throat, lead to coughing, or contribute to long-term respiratory issues.
- Drug screening: After THCA is turned into THC with heat, it can lead to a drug test positive.
- Little clinical research: Although the early science is intriguing, we need more substantial studies for an accurate understanding of how THCA impacts health.
If you’re more wellness-focused, raw methods of consumption — such as in juices or tinctures will be preferred. At Uplift CBD, we provide multiple consumption forms for you to pick what fits your lifestyle the best.
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Will High THCA Flower Get You High?
It depends on how you use it.
If you smoke or vape it, yes — THCA becomes THC (which has psychoactive effects).
What’s that mean for you? THCA flower gives you the freedom to tailor your experience. Want to enjoy a high? Smoke it. Prefer non-intoxicating wellness support? Keep it raw.
Understanding Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid THCA Strains
High THCA flower, like regular cannabis, comes in a variety of strains. Understanding them can help you customize your experience:
- Indica: Usually best for night use. Provides soothing effects, which may aid sleep and chronic pain.
- Sativa: Energizing and uplifting. Commonly used for daytime creativity and focus.
- Hybrid: A combination of Indica and Sativa, which provides a mix of the “high” effects and the more physical body high effects.
We’ve grabbed just a couple of Uplift CBD high-THCA flower strains to satisfy any goal, so whether you want a tranquil evening or a productive day, we have you covered.
Final Thoughts on High THCA Flower
High THCA flower is an intriguing legal offering to cannabis users looking for either a THC-like experience or possible health benefits — without crossing the boundaries of legality. Whether you decide to consume it through smoking for its psychoactive effects or eat the raw herb for therapeutic potential, it is diverse and can be controlled.
At Uplift CBD, we value quality, compliance, and transparency. Our high THCA flower is lab-tested, hemp-derived, and ships to all 50 states. And, if you’re in the St. Petersburg area, pay a visit to our shop on 2nd Ave S Ste E and speak with one of our friendly staff!
Need help picking the right strain? Contact us today at 727-498-8543 or apply online with us now.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is high-THCA flower legal in my state?
It depends. Federally, it's legal if derived from hemp with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC, but some states have stricter laws. Always check local regulations.
2. Will high THCA flower show up on a drug test?
If smoked or vaped, yes. Heating it turns THCA into THC, which can result in a positive drug test.
3. Can I get high from eating high-THCA flower raw?
No. THCA is non-psychoactive in its raw form and won’t produce a high unless heated.
4. What are the benefits of consuming it raw?
Some users report anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antioxidant effects without the intoxication of THC.
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