Potential total THC
Potential total THC refers to the maximum amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) available in cannabis after decarboxylation.
What is Potential total THC? - A Layman Version
Potential total THC is the maximum THC you can get from cannabis after applying heat.
This measurement is crucial because raw cannabis contains THCA, an inactive form of THC. When cannabis is heated through smoking, vaping, or cooking, THCA converts to THC, which is psychoactive. For example, if a cannabis product label lists 15% THCA and 2% THC, the potential total THC is calculated by converting THCA to THC.
What is Potential total THC? - A Definitive Explanation
Potential total THC represents the maximum THC content after full decarboxylation.
THCA, the non-psychoactive precursor to THC, converts to THC when exposed to heat. The formula to calculate potential total THC is: THC + (THCA × 0.877). This factor accounts for the molecular weight difference between THCA and THC. Understanding potential total THC is important for consumers who want to know the strength of edibles, tinctures, and other cannabis products.
- THCA is abundant in raw cannabis and must be converted to THC to produce psychoactive effects.
- Decarboxylation occurs at temperatures above 220°F (104°C), commonly achieved in smoking or cooking.
- Potential total THC helps consumers make informed decisions about dosage and potency.
Common Questions about Potential total THC
How is potential total THC calculated?
Potential total THC is calculated using the formula: THC + (THCA × 0.877). This accounts for the conversion of THCA to THC during decarboxylation.
Why is potential total THC important?
Potential total THC gives consumers an estimate of the maximum psychoactive effects they can expect from a cannabis product, aiding in appropriate dosage selection.
Does potential total THC guarantee exact potency?
No, potential total THC is a theoretical maximum. Actual THC levels can vary based on how the cannabis is processed and consumed.
Can you feel the effects of THCA?
No, THCA is non-psychoactive. It must be converted to THC through decarboxylation to produce effects.