From THCA to THC: The Chemistry Behind Decarboxylation

Often shortened to “decarbing,” decarboxylation is a chemical process that turns cannabis from its raw form into its active, intoxicating form. Cannabis plants, in their natural state, produce cannabinoids in acidic forms, such as THCA. This compound has distinct properties but doesn’t cause an intoxicating ‘high.’

Those who purchase THCA flower may want to experience the benefits of raw cannabis. Others looking for a different effect find that decarbing is necessary to activate the THC inside the plant. I explain the process, how it works, and much more in this article.

What Is Decarbing & Why Is It Important?

Decarbing involves exposing cannabis to heat, resulting in the removal of a carboxyl group from the THCA molecule. This reaction releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and chemically alters the compound. In effect, it “activates” the cannabis, turning THCA into THC.

THCA’s structure includes a carboxyl group (-COOH), which prevents it from effectively binding to CB1 receptors in the brain. Yet, once you apply heat, the carboxyl group is broken down and released as CO2. This process transforms THCA into THC, allowing it to interact with the brain’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), specifically the CB1 receptors. This is why THC causes intoxication and THCA doesn’t.

Time and temperature are key variables. THCA begins decarbing at approximately 220 degrees Fahrenheit, and most of the conversion process happens between 220 and 250 degrees. However, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can degrade THC into cannabinol, otherwise known as CBN. While CBN has sedative properties, it is significantly less potent than THC.

Decarbing doesn’t just activate the cannabis plant’s THC; it also improves the bioavailability of cannabinoids. Therefore, they become more effective when you consume them. One could argue that decarbing unlocks the plant’s full potential, although those who enjoy THCA’s effect may disagree.

How to Decarb THCA

There are many ways to decarboxylate THCA, but I’ll focus on three of the most common.

Oven Decarbing

If you want to create edibles and happen to live in a state where THC is legal, this is one of the most common and accessible decarbing methods. Preheat your oven to a temperature between 220 and 240 degrees, break up the THCA flower, and spread it evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Once the oven is ready, put the tray in and bake for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally for even heating. One issue with this method is that ovens can sometimes fluctuate in temperature. To combat this, you can use a thermometer for better accuracy.

Slow Cooker Decarbing

Individuals looking to make cannabis-infused oils or butter also have the option of using a slow cooker. Combine your cannabis with oil or butter, place it in the ‘low’ heat setting, and leave for 4-6 hours.

The slow cooking gently heats the plant matter, letting it decarb while infusing the oil. It’s a simple, hands-off method, although patience is required.

Warp Speed Decarbing

Last, but not least, comes the tried and trusted method. This involves rolling the THCA flower into a joint and smoking it. This process immediately activates the plant, ensuring that the user consumes THC.

However, you must check the legality of THC in your state before attempting this. While you may find that buying THCA flower is legal, the practice of consuming THC could be prohibited!

Quick Tips on Effective Decarbing

While decarbing THCA may seem easy, there are specific ways to do it correctly. The apparent simplicity of the process could cause you to make mistakes, resulting in inefficient decarbing. Here are a few tips to help you get it right, relating specifically to the slower decarboxylation methods:

• Monitor the Temperature: Use an oven thermometer or a device with precise temperature settings to avoid overheating.
• Don’t Grind Too Finely: If you overdo the grinding process, you increase the risk of burning the flower, resulting in the loss of cannabinoids. It’s better to break the plant matter into smaller pieces so fine grinding becomes unnecessary.
• Stir Occasionally: When decarbing in the oven, move the flower occasionally to ensure even heat distribution.
• Keep Terpenes Intact: Many of the benefits of the cannabis plant are attributed to its terpene content. The problem is that terpenes evaporate at higher temperatures. So, ensure you use lower heat over a longer timeframe to preserve these precious compounds.
• Use Proper Storage Methods: After decarbing, store your plant matter in an airtight container in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.

Decarbing Is Not for Everyone

I should point out that decarboxylation isn’t the default choice. Certainly, a LOT of people who buy our THCA flower enjoy this cannabinoid’s intriguing effects. There’s ample research outlining the many THCA benefits, so you don’t necessarily need to decarb the plant matter. Indeed, plenty of people like to create raw cannabis smoothies or put THCA flower in other recipes.

If you want to feel the benefits of cannabis without an intoxicating feeling, THCA is an excellent option. Raw cannabis products are becoming increasingly popular in the wellness space.

Raw to Refined: Decarbing Transforms Cannabis

Decarbing is essential if your goal is to bring out the THC in cannabis. In its raw form, cannabis contains a high level of THCA, which has plenty of uses but doesn’t cause intoxication. Thus, people living in states that allow marijuana use may prefer to decarboxylate THCA flower to see if they like the effects of THC.

Mastering the art of decarbing offers greater control over your cannabis experience. As such, you can decide whether you want one specific set of effects over another. However, please note that in some states, THCA is permitted, whereas THC is outlawed, so check your local laws before considering the decarbing of THCA flower.