Can THCA Help With Sleep?

Due to the rapidly evolving research around THCA and other prominent cannabinoids, there are proving to be more and more positive effects that a user might gain from using certain cannabinoids. Many modern THCA users report that the compound has aided in nerve pain, acts as an appetite stimulant, and most popularly, as a sleep aid. Here we will take a deeper look into what’s to be said on using THCA to catch your Z’s. 

If you’re looking for a full, detailed look at THCA, check out our other Imperial blogs. 

Key Takeaways

• THCA, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid present in cannabis, is one of the six principal cannabinoids. It acts as a precursor to Delta-9 THC, which is known for its psychoactive properties, in contrast to THCA’s non-psychoactive nature.
• When lit or heated, THCA provides psychoactive properties extremely similar to that of traditional cannabis such as relaxation and feelings of euphoria 
• THCA is believed to offer various health benefits, such as mitigating and preventing metabolic disorders, reducing inflammation, and assisting in pain relief.
• For those seeking to utilize THCA for its sleep-enhancing benefits, the most effective approach is through its conversion to Delta-9 THC. This can be achieved by incorporating it into joints or consuming it similarly to other concentrates. 

Does THCA Help with Sleep?

THC has been shown to help users fall asleep and get deeper, more restful sleep. The properties of THC aid in keeping users asleep and regulate their REM cycles. However, some people seek a sleep aid without the feelings traditionally associated with a cannabis high. This is where THCA could be helpful. 

THCA might offer benefits for those struggling with sleep issues, although research is still limited on its effectiveness as a standalone treatment. Its potential neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate certain symptoms associated with sleep disturbances.

Being non-intoxicating, THCA provides a gentler option for sleep aid compared to the psychoactive Delta-9 THC. However, cannabinoids such as CBN and CBD have demonstrated more effectiveness in this area when used directly.

When THCA is transformed into Delta-9 THC, it can potentially address more severe symptoms that disrupt sleep, such as inflammation and stress. Delta-9 THC is reported to assist in relaxation and stress relief, potentially aiding in a better night’s rest.

While definitive conclusions on its effectiveness for treating specific conditions are yet to be established, THCA may offer relief for general symptoms like stress, contributing to improved sleep quality, especially if you want to avoid a psychoactive high. 

Photo by Budding . on Unsplash

How to Use THCA for Sleep

Some individuals consume raw THCA to tap into the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the high, though its effects are milder compared to other consumption methods like smoking or dabbing concentrates. 

However, for traditional cannabis users seeking the sleep-enhancing effects of THCA, utilizing it in its converted form as Delta-9 THC proves to be the most effective. Given the transformation of THCA into THC through heat, it’s recommended to incorporate it into your smoking routine, similar to how you might use terpene juice or other concentrates. You can enrich your joint by adding this concentrate or blend it with ground flower for use in pipes or bongs if that’s your preferred method.

For those with a higher tolerance to cannabis, dabbing or using vaporizers are also viable options. It’s important to maintain a low heat setting to prevent the concentrate from fully evaporating, ensuring you get the most out of your THCA consumption.

Other Popular Forms of THCA Products Used for Sleep

For those who don’t want to use an inhaled or vaporized version of THCA, such as a joint of vape, there are other options. These are smoke-free, and often it is easy to control the precise amount of THCA you are ingesting. 

• Oils – THCA oils and tinctures are extremely useful to the new cannabis user. Some oils can be used in food, salad dressings, smoothies, and any food that doesn’t require cooking to keep the psychoactive properties at bay. Many companies also make THCA tinctures that can be applied topically, and these have been shown to have potential soothing properties in addition to calming sleep aid properties. 
• Edibles – THCA gummies are becoming increasingly popular with those looking for a good night’s sleep. Gummies and other similar edibles come in a range of dosages, so you can find what works best for you and your desired sleep schedule. 
• Cooking – You can incorporate THCA into your cooked foods as well as cold foods, keeping in mind that heating will transform THCA into THC. So, as long as you’re fine with getting high, THCA can be incorporated into everything from butter to brownies to pizza. 

Risks to Using THCA For Sleep

With all of this said it’s also important to note that cannabinoids such as THCA are best used in moderation. While there are no such cases of “overdoses” from cannabis, if one consumes too much in a short amount of time, there could be some unfortunate side effects. 

Users have reported symptoms such as:

• Grogginess
• Dry Eyes and Mouth
• Impaired Memory 
• Anxiety

The key to avoiding these unpleasant effects is using products in moderation, keeping hydrated, and enjoying them on a full stomach. This will ensure the effects last longer, are more evenly spread out and will give you the most restful sleep possible. 

Photo by Becca Schultz on Unsplash

Where to Buy THCA Products Online

As mentioned above, there are many newer THCA products on the market, so you want to make sure you’re buying from a reputable brand. The THCA market is ever-expanding, meaning you can buy a selection of tinctures, oils, edibles, and prerolls online. 

At Imperial Extraction, we have high-quality THCA Prerolls that come in ultra-thin European wrappers and are topped off with a reusable glass tip. For the user who isn’t looking for any basic preroll, Imperial’s THCA products could be your pathway to better sleep.

Final Thoughts: Can You Use THCA for Sleep?

THCA is a wonderful option for those seeking the potential therapeutic effects of cannabinoid products, as it gives users the option not to undergo any psychoactive effects. Whether you’re seeking a high to chill you out or are just after a mellowing effect, THCA could be a great option if you’re struggling with getting quality sleep. 

As with all cannabis products, it’s wise to check with a trusted medical professional before seeking the potential benefits of these products. Make sure to make any health concerns known before finding the cannabinoid that’s best for you. 

**(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.