Best Way to Smoke THCA

One of the latest trends in the cannabis world is the rise of THCA, a compound among the six major cannabinoids found in hemp. Renowned for its potency, user-friendly nature, and potential benefits, THCA has captured the imagination of enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Dispensaries have now introduced a concentrated form of this cannabinoid acid, known as THCA diamonds/crystals. Other options for THCA include THCA sand. This article will give you the ins and outs of each form of THCA and the best way to enjoy it.

THCA has gained attention among users for its purity of extraction and overall potency. Thanks to this process, smoking THCA can yield a much more potent high than other products and offer a cleaner experience than other distillates.

Key Takeaways

• THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid and does not have psychoactive properties on its own. THCA is a precursor to THC (Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol) and will deliver a classic cannabis high once lit.
• While some users smoke THCA for its psychoactive effects, many also utilize it for its potential therapeutic benefits. THCA can be added to food or beverages in its raw state, allowing users to enjoy its reported advantages without experiencing psychoactive effects.
• Among the six major cannabinoids found in hemp, THCA can be concentrated into a product known as THCA diamonds. To unlock its full potential, THCA requires heat, making smoking and dabbing the optimal consumption methods.
• Different forms of THCA concentrate, such as diamonds/crystals, require distinct smoking techniques, with diamonds/crystals favored for smoking in flower, but can also be recommended for dabbing.

What’s the Best Way to Smoke THCA?

The preferred consumption method varies based on availability and personal taste. Many cannabis aficionados argue that vaporizing THCA is superior because it heats the compound to evaporation without burning, producing vapor instead of smoke. 

No method of consuming THCA is incorrect, whether it involves integrating it into joints, bong bowls, or other smoking devices. Alternatively, some may choose to dab with a rig, which appeals to those seeking swift, intense effects, while others appreciate the heightened potency achieved by combining diamonds with cannabis in a bubbler.

The most popular methods of consuming THCA include:

• Vaporization – No combustion is involved, resulting in a smooth vapor as opposed to smoke. 
• Dabs – For users who prefer dabbing for intense and rapid effects. 
• Smoking – This is the most-used method for THCA. THCA can be used in joints, prerolls, and glassware. 

Navigating THCA can get confusing, as it has different effects in different forms. This is primarily due to the molecular characteristics and size of the compound. Given its size, the receptors in our brain don’t readily allow proteins to bind to THCA.

Additionally, THCA often misses the complex flavors of live resin or rosin due to its extraction process, which separates diamonds from terpenes, resulting in terpene juice. This leaves THCA with a mainly skunky and herbal taste, embodying the pure cannabis essence without specific flavors or aromas. For newcomers to extracts, starting with flower or familiarizing with herb aromatics is advisable.

Photo by Mikkel Frimer-Rasmussen on Unsplash

Best Way to Smoke THCA Diamonds

Let’s delve into diamonds. These concentrates are crafted through a combination of mechanical and chemical extraction methods that separate the cannabinoids from the other organic masses within the buds. This solution is then concentrated through multiple cycles until the THCA settles at the bottom and the terpene juice forms.

THCA diamonds, also known as crystals, are a highly concentrated and potent form of cannabis concentrate. In fact, they are essentially the purest form of THCA. They can contain 90-99% THCA, making them one of the purest and most concentrated forms of cannabinoids available. THCA diamonds are also known for their crystalline structure, which gives them a unique appearance resembling diamonds or clear crystals.

Dabbing is thought to be the best method for consuming THCA crystals or diamonds. You’ll need a dab rig, which is a specialized water pipe designed for concentrates. Whether you’re using a nail dabber or a traditional bong, this method ensures you get the most out of your concentrate without any wasted potential.

Other tactics include smoking THCA diamonds through a vaporizer. You can also sprinkle a small amount of THCA diamonds on top of your dried cannabis flower before smoking it in a joint or a bowl.

Best Way to Smoke THCA Sand

Now, let’s dive into THCA sand. Unlike diamonds, this concentrate is essentially THCA residue that’s been milled up, resulting in a fine consistency akin to a sugar mix. Think of it as the high-end version of kief.

Unfortunately, due to its quick evaporation when heated, dabbing THCA sand may not yield as much product enjoyment. Our recommendation? Mix it with other concentrates to help it stick or simply sprinkle it onto your regular flower-packed bowl. Unless you’re keen on exploring this version of THCA, diamonds offer an easier and more cost-effective smoking option.

Why THCA sand might not be the greatest experience:

• Sprinkling into a joint or pre-roll is an option, it can get messy without the proper tools to prevent contamination and preserve the fine powder.

• Given its typically higher price point compared to diamonds, accidentally blowing away your extract can be quite frustrating.
• Handling such a fine powder can be cumbersome, especially without a dedicated electronic vaporizer or e-rig with lower heating settings.

Photo by Jeff W on Unsplash

Where to Buy THCA Products Online

Now that we’ve covered THCA in all its forms, you might be looking for a way to try this unique cannabinoid. THCA Prerolls are the most convenient method, and Imperial Extraction has a quality, lab-tested selection of prerolls in several strains for you to try. You can take your pick of strain, with sativa, indica, and hybrid options. 

Our THCA Prerolls are infused with THCA diamonds, and use a reusable glass tip so you can have the pinnacle THCA experience. 

Final Thoughts 

Finding your best smoke with TCHA is all about personal preference. As with any cannabis product, it is best to start slow when using a new cannabinoid. While there are new and exciting options like THCA diamonds and sand, we think you can never go wrong with the classic flower. 

**(Disclaimer reminder: This article is not medical advice. It is based on anecdotal user experience alone. If you are thinking about incorporating cannabis (delta-8 THC, delta-9 THC, CBD, etc) into your medicinal routine, please consult a healthcare professional. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.)

Disclaimer: This article was written in March 2024 and reflects the United States’ laws that were current at that time. Because cannabis laws in the United States laws are subject to change at any time, please make sure that you are always staying up to date on your federal, state, and local county’s cannabis laws. Additionally, we are NOT encouraging anyone to break the law––we are simply showing people ways to legally and discreetly bring their cannabis products along with them on their travels so that they may have access to those products when they reach their intended destination.