Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in raw cannabis. It is the precursor to THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for the effects typically associated with cannabis use. THCA, in its raw form, does not directly produce a “high.” Exposure to heat, such as through smoking, vaping, or cooking, converts THCA into THC through a process called decarboxylation.
The detection of cannabis use in standard drug screenings typically relies on identifying the presence of THC metabolites, primarily THC-COOH. These metabolites are produced when the body processes THC. The significance of understanding how different cannabinoids and their metabolites are detected lies in the varied legal and employment implications surrounding cannabis consumption. Understanding the detection windows for these compounds is crucial for individuals subject to drug testing.