How long does THCa stay in your system? | Saliva test

Saliva Test

Based on scientific literature, it is possible to detect THCa in saliva up to 36 hours after consumption, although several important factors must be considered.

First, Let’s Remember

As we previously explained succinctly and clearly in Does THCa get you high when smoked?, THCa is THC but with its Delta-9 content (the cannabinoid that causes the feeling of euphoria) genetically reduced to a maximum of 0.3%. Therefore, it does not produce highs that alter mental state, distort time perception, or generate intense states of happiness. Thus, studying THC is useful for understanding the behavior of THCa.

A Second Factor

The generalization about the substance’s presence in the body for up to 36 hours involves aspects such as consumption frequency, amount consumed, detection test type (urine, hair, or blood), and individual metabolism, which is significant as effects vary person to person. Scientific knowledge on THC supports this. Heavy cannabis users may have THC and its metabolites detectable for longer due to cumulative effects. This variability is crucial for interpreting drug test results.

Regarding the Detection of THCa

It can be identifiable in saliva from 1 to 36 hours after consumption. This means that for someone consuming THC with a 0.3% concentration of Delta-9, whether occasionally or daily, the substance, including THC-COOH, could be detectable in saliva within this time frame. The specific detection within this range may vary according to individual factors such as metabolism and the sensitivity of the test, with THC-COOH serving as a key metabolite for identifying recent use.

Drug Screenings

Is characterized by its ability to identify the presence of this substance immediately after consumption, and the concentrations detected can be higher than in the blood. This indicates that saliva tests are especially useful for determining recent cannabis use, offering rapid results that reflect exposure to the drug in a short period.

In Terms of Detection Methods

Two of the most notable are immunological assays, such as ELISA, and for more detailed and confirmatory analyses, liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) is used. That is, if you’re looking for something specific in a room full of objects, ELISA is like using a trained dog to find a specific object by its smell. On the other hand, chromatography (LC-MS) would be like having a team of experts who not only find the object but also inform you about its composition, weight, and if there are similar hidden objects.

Regarding Eliminating Traces of THC from the Body

There are no scientifically proven or safe methods to “erase” the traces of its consumption. Research focuses more on understanding how the body processes substances and how these can influence detection tests, rather than on ways to evade the results of these tests.

The Legality of THCa

U.S. authorities are aware of THCa’s existence and allow its use for two practical reasons. First, there is a legal loophole regarding its consumption. Second, the Delta-9 percentage is 0.3%, meaning it does not cause mental alterations but only provides calming attributes. The laboratory certificate we provide with your purchase is significant. In certain situations, it can confirm that the THC in your body is due to THCa consumption.

In summary

It is possible to identify THCa in saliva up to 36 hours after consumption, which is influenced by consumption frequency and individual metabolism. Although THCa has a low Delta-9 content and does not produce significant psychoactive effects, its detection in saliva can be useful for indicating recent cannabis use, leading to a positive drug test and about the legality of the THCa.