What Do THCa Pre-rolls Do?

By Jill Raver

THCa Pre-rolls are gaining popularity in the Cannabis and Hemp markets, but many consumers are still unsure about what they actually do. Since THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid in its raw form, some people assume that THCa Pre-rolls won’t get them high. However, this isn’t entirely true.

When THCa Pre-rolls are smoked, the heat transforms THCa into THC, which does have intoxicating effects. This means that despite being labeled as "THCa," these pre-rolls can deliver a similar euphoric experience to Marijuana.

This blog will explain how THCa Pre-rolls work, their effects, benefits, and potential legal concerns.

What Are THCa Pre-rolls?

A THCa preroll is a pre-rolled joint made from high-THCa Hemp flower. THCa Pre-rolls are often marketed as Hemp-derived products, meaning they are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill as long as they contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight.

However, there’s a catch:

• THCa converts to THC when heated, meaning a preroll that contains 20 to 30% THCa can produce effects almost identical to Marijuana when smoked.
• Because of this, many states are starting to regulate or ban high-THCa products, even if they technically meet Hemp guidelines.

How Do THCa Pre-rolls Work?

When you light a THCa Preroll, the heat causes decarboxylation, which turns THCa into Delta-9 THC. This transformation makes the preroll psychoactive.

What Happens When You Smoke a THCa Preroll?

1. Inhalation: As you inhale the smoke, the THCa in the Hemp flower converts into THC due to the heat.
2. Absorption: The THC quickly enters your bloodstream through your lungs, leading to fast-acting effects - usually within minutes.
3. Effects Set In: Depending on your tolerance, the dosage and the strain, the effects can range from mild relaxation to intense euphoria.

What Are the Effects of THCa Pre-rolls?

Since THCa turns into THC when heated, the effects of a THCa Preroll are essentially the same as Marijuana. However, the experience can vary depending on the factors discussed previously.

Common Effects Include:

• Euphoria - Feelings of happiness and relaxation.
• Increased Creativity - Many users report enhanced creative thinking.
• Sedation or Relaxation - Some strains may help with stress and sleep.
• Pain and Inflammation Relief - THCa Pre-rolls may provide relief from chronic pain.
• Increased Appetite - Commonly known as “the munchies”.

Benefits of THCa Pre-rolls

1. Legal Loophole for High-Potency Cannabis 

• In states where Marijuana is illegal, THCa Pre-rolls offer a legal way to consume high-THC products, thanks to the Farm Bill loophole.
• However, laws are changing, and some states are banning THCa products.

2. Faster Effects Compared to Edibles

• Unlike edibles, which can take an hour or more to kick in, THCa Pre-rolls work almost instantly, making them a preferred option for immediate relief.

3. Potential Medical Benefits

• THCa itself has been studied for its anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and anti-nausea properties.
• When converted into THC, it may help with pain, appetite stimulation and sleep disorders.

4. Convenient and Ready to Use 

• Unlike loose flower, pre-rolls are pre-rolled and ready to smoke, making them a convenient option for users.

Are THCa Pre-rolls Legal?

Under the 2018 Farm Bill, Hemp products containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC are federally legal. Since THCa is not technically THC in its raw form, it is a legal Hemp product.

Some states are banning THCa because of its psychoactive potential. They argue that since THCa turns into THC when heated, it should be regulated the same as Marijuana.

*Before purchasing or using THCa Pre-rolls, check your state laws.

Do THCa Pre-rolls Show Up on a Drug Test?

Yes. If you smoke a THCa Preroll, you will likely test positive for THC on a drug test. Most drug tests screen for THC metabolites, which appear after THC is processed by the body. Since THCa turns into THC when smoked, using a THCa Preroll can result in a failed drug test. If you are subject to workplace drug testing, military screenings or probation testing, it’s best to avoid THCa Pre-rolls.

Potential Side Effects of THCa Pre-rolls

Like traditional THC products, THCa Pre-rolls can cause side effects, especially in high doses or for new users.

Common Side Effects Include:

• Dry mouth 
• Red eyes
• Increased heart rate
• Dizziness
• Anxiety or paranoia (especially with high doses)

*If you experience negative effects, stay hydrated, find a calm environment and wait for the effects to wear off.

Conclusion

THCa Pre-rolls work very similarly to Cannabis joints. While these pre-rolls are hemp-based, their psychoactive potential has led to legal scrutiny in some states.

If you’re interested in trying THCa Pre-rolls, be sure to check your local laws, buy from reputable sources, and understand the potential risks and benefits.

Shop federally legal, third-party lab-tested THCa products here at Mystic Labs!