4 THC-A Benefits Your Customers Look For
One of the most abundant phytocannabinoids in a chosen product is delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), but you will also see THC's acidic precursor tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, or THC-A, listed alongside it in some concentration. Why is it important for labs to test for and quantify cannabis products for THC-A content? This guide outlines THC-A and its potential benefits, as well as the process by which cannabis testing labs identify and quantify the compound.
In this article, you will learn:
The major difference between THC and THC-A
Why customers look for THC-A in their cannabis products
How cannabis testing labs screen for THC-A content
What is THC-A?
THC-A is the acidic precursor to the well-known cannabinoid delta-9 THC, the active compound in the plant that produces the intoxication commonly associated with cannabis. THC-A and other acidic phytocannabinoids, however, are “inactive.” It exists in the plant as it grows, alongside other cannabinoid acids like CBDA, which is the precursor to CBD, the most prevalent phytocannabinoid found in hemp.
When heated, whether through vaporization or combustion, these acids convert to their active forms. This is the form necessary to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) and influence the body.
Does THC-A have any benefits?
Although most cannabis consumers are probably most familiar with active cannabinoids, consuming THC-A has been shown to offer some therapeutic effects on its own.
Based on the existing research into THC-A, which is ongoing and remains limited, it appears the cannabinoid acid could offer the following therapeutic benefits to consumers:
Anti-nausea: THC-A has shown significant promise in animal studies toward reducing feelings of nausea and preventing vomiting. Researchers believe it could be an alternative to THC for antiemetic treatment, especially for patients who don't tolerate the intoxication associated with THC very well, or for children undergoing chemotherapy, for example.
Pain relief: Much like its active form THC, THC-A is thought to excel in pain management. It's potential as an analgesic seems to stem from inhibiting the production of enzymes that are closely linked to inflammation and pain.
Metabolism protection: An animal study on THC-A's ability to regulate metabolic activity found that the cannabinoid could improve glucose intolerance and insulin sensitivity, as well as reducing weight gain and the risk of diabetes.
Neuroprotection: Several cannabinoids are notable for their neuroprotective qualities, and THC-A is one of them. Researchers observed that THC-A could protect nerve cells and prevent their degradation, which can lead to issues like neuropathic pain. More research is needed, but THC-A could become relevant to treating Huntington's disease or Parkinson's disease.
THC-A vs. THC
The major difference is that THC-A is not intoxicating, while delta 9 THC is intoxicating. However, as the acidic precursor to THC, THC-A has many similar impacts on the body as its activated form. For consumers who benefit from THC but do not tolerate its intoxicating impact on the body, there may be an alternative option in THC-A.
How cannabis labs test for THC-A
Cannabis testing laboratories can identify and quantify the amount of THC-A in a particular cannabis plant or product through processes known as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The process involves the use of a Diode Array Detector or Photodiode Array Detector, which can detect ultraviolet (UV) light. Analysts use these tools to identify and quantify the cannabinoids present in a cannabis product. This is known as phytocannabinoid profiling, which detects all phytocannabinoids present in a product, not just THC-A.
After testing, cannabis labs issue a Certificate of Analysis (COA) that describes not only the phytocannabinoid profile, but also whether any contaminants were found in dangerous levels in the product. This includes test results for heavy metals, residual solvents, microbial contamination, and more. In many states, testing labs must also report their findings to the appropriate state regulatory body.
Why THC-A testing is important for cannabis cultivators and manufacturers
THC-A testing is important for several reasons, including how its conversion to THC influences the consumer experience, increased consumer awareness of the cannabinoid, establishing a brand relationship with your target audience, and legal compliance for hemp producers.
Increased THC: Consumers need to be mindful that THC-A will convert to THC and thus influence their overall consumption experience. The total delta 9 THC content will be elevated once the acidic form of the phytocannabinoid is exposed to heat and converted, particularly if vaporized or combusted.
Consumer interest: As research into cannabis becomes more sophisticated, consumer understanding of minor cannabinoids and cannabinoid acids continues to grow. THC-A is one such cannabinoid acid that has caught the attention of many consumers. Stating the amount of THC-A in a product gives consumers the information they need to make the best decisions for themselves.
Brand relationship: THC-A test results can also help brands develop closer relationships with customers that specifically want THC-A products. Additionally, transparency in general is important for cannabis consumers, so brands that offer a full array of testing results are more likely to establish trust and customer loyalty.
Hemp compliance: For hemp producers, one of the most important regulations is that industrial hemp must contain less than 0.3% total THC, including THC-A, or else it is considered federally prohibited marijuana and is illegal to sell without a state license. If hemp cultivators allow THC-A levels to rise too high, they may be legally liable for exceeding the 0.3% THC threshold set by federal law.
Test your cannabis products for THC-A with True Labs for Cannabis
Phytocannabinoid testing offers producers and consumers alike a window into what's inside cannabis products beyond THC and CBD. Minor phytocannabinoids like THC-A are receiving more attention as consumer awareness grows of its benefits and overall contribution to the consumption experience. Brands in the legal cannabis industry, especially new markets like New Jersey, can leverage cannabis testing results to establish a transparent relationship with their customers, building brand loyalty and establishing a foothold in a young and competitive industry.
True Labs for Cannabis in New Jersey offers Garden State cannabis brands pinpoint accuracy in cannabis testing results. Customers of our East Hanover testing lab can expect the highest standards of transparency and accuracy, as set out by the state. We do not compromise in quality and we hold all clients to the highest standards as set by the law and beyond. Learn more about True Labs for Cannabis and how our facilities can ensure you remain in compliance while offering total transparency to your customers.