What is THCa and Why Is It Legal Under the 2018 Farm Bill?

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THCa, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis plants, including both hemp and marijuana. It is the precursor to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the compound primarily responsible for the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis. THCa itself does not produce a "high," but it may have potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

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All cannabis plants, regardless of their classification as hemp or marijuana, contain THCa. Hemp is defined under U.S. law as cannabis containing 0.3% or less THC by dry weight, while marijuana typically has higher THC levels. However, both types of cannabis start their life cycle with THCa, which is present in the plant’s raw form. When cannabis is heated (a process known as decarboxylation), THCa converts to THC, resulting in the psychoactive effects commonly sought after by users.

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The legality of cannabis products containing THCa under the 2018 Farm Bill stems from the bill’s definition of hemp. The Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived products, as long as they contain 0.3% or less THC. This means that THCa, which is non-psychoactive and present in both hemp and marijuana, is considered legal. Furthermore, since THCa itself does not convert to THC until heated, it remains a legal compound when found in raw hemp products. Thus, consumers can legally obtain and use hemp products that contain THCa, which has led to a growing interest in its potential health benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC.