Ever since Dr. Raphael Mechoulam isolated the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) compound in the 1960s, research into the various properties of cannabis has greatly expanded to include other compounds such as tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA), which naturally occurs as a precursor compound when female plants flower. THCA is not psychoactive in and of itself; however, its molecular structure becomes almost identical to THC when exposed to heat.
One advantage of THCA in the medical and recreational cannabis markets is that it is ideal for making concentrates. When making live resin, one of the most popular concentrates for “dabbing,” THCA presents a purity advantage that can go as high as 99% THC upon botanical extraction. THCA diamonds are chunks of live cannabis resin that can be vaporized with dab rigs; they deliver a nice and clean hit with rapid effects and a mild aroma. While THCA diamonds can also be smoked, the consensus from users is that vaporizing them gives them better results.
An important thing to know about THCA products is that they can be susceptible to light exposure and aging. Diamonds made from THCA must have a freshness date; moreover, they need to be stored in a container that blocks sunlight. Diamonds can be cut with added terpene oils that can vary in their quality, but many cannabis enthusiasts prefer the natural kick of the terpenes in the plant. Something else that is even more important to consider is the potency of diamonds once they are vaporized and begin to transform into THC; for this reason, you should start with small pieces.