When you look at a fresh little bud, you know that it’s filled with stoney goodness… but you wouldn’t get high if you just ate it raw. Why is that? Well, let us explain…
Cannabis naturally produces several THCA molecules as it grows. The flowers of the cannabis plant contain the highest concentrations of these molecules. THCA in its raw form will not get you high. The stony effects of cannabis can only happen after THCA is converted into THC through a process called decarboxylation.
Decarboxylation (pronounced like dee-car-box-ah-lay-shun), is the act of removing the carboxyl group from an organic compound, in this case THCA. Decarboxylation is also often colloquially referred to as ‘decarbing’.
Think of it this way, THCA is a little bit like a Phoenix (the Mythical Bird). Just like a Phoenix, the THCA molecule has a glorious tail. The A in THCA is its “tail” and is composed of an oxygen atom bonded to a hydrogen atom, also known as a carboxyl group. THCA is non-psychoactive, so cannabis can only make you feel high once that group of atoms is removed; the THCA becomes THC.
So, what can cause that chemical transition to occur? Fire! Releasing the carboxyl tail group by applying heat or fire allows THCA to convert into the shiny, psychoactive badass THC we all know and love. When you roast a bowl, the flame from your lighter (or heat from your vaporizer) provides the necessary elements to jump-start the decarboxylation process.
Fun fact: the process of decarbing is also how edibles get their mojo! You can learn more about the magic of decarbing by checking out some of our other blog posts! Learn how to make cannabis infused coconut oil or cannabis infused butter for baking your own edibles!
