CBD oils, topicals, and edibles are everywhere nowadays. Along with CBD, you can also find a lot of CBG, CBN, and hemp products in various dispensaries across the states.
But what about CBDA? While you might already be aware that CBDA is a cannabidiolic acid that comes from the same hemp plant as CBD, how it is different from CBD and how you can implement it into your wellness routine is a thing to learn.
So here, that’s what our goal is. To take you through the differences between CBDA and CBD, their benefits, usage, and more.
Keep reading!
What Is CBDA?
CBDA (cannabidiolic acid) is a non-toxic and solvent-free cannabinoid found in both hemp and marijuana plants. Just like CBD and unlike THC, it doesn’t produce a high effect.
Although CBDA is less popular than CBD, its benefits can’t be neglected, and has the potential to induce a range of effects by working with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).
When CBDA is processed through decarboxylation, CO2 and hydrogen are removed, creating CBD. This process can occur organically when the hemp plant is burned, exposed to the sun, vaporized, smoked, or cooked.
What Is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the 150 compounds found in both the marijuana and hemp subspecies of the cannabis sativa plant. It has become a popular wellness supplement in recent years, thanks to its potential therapeutic benefits.
CBD is also a byproduct of CBDA after it is exposed to extreme levels of heat. It doesn’t contain high levels of THC, meaning consuming it won’t trouble you with any undesirable psychoactive effects.
How Does CBDA Work?
CBDA (cannabidiolic acid) is a compound found in raw cannabis plants. Unlike its decarboxylated form, CBD, it works with the body by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme, which is associated with pain and inflammation.
The bodies of all mammals, invertebrates, and vertebrates have a huge system of neurotransmitters called the ECS (endocannabinoid system). In this system, 2 types of receptors work with the cannabinoids of the hemp plant:
- CB1 – Is found in the brain and all over the central nervous system, including the liver, lungs, kidneys, and reproductive organs.
- CB2 – This is found in the gastrointestinal and immune systems. When stimulated, they can relieve physical discomfort and aches.
These receptors affect the function and signaling of the central nervous system and play a critical role in motor control, memory processing, mood, appetite, and sleep.
However, the CBDA cannabinoids only bind with the CB1 receptors. This is the same kind of cannabinoid receptor that binds with THC, a component found in the hemp plant that’s responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana.
When working with the ECS, CBDA inhibits the COX-2 enzyme that catalyzes prostaglandins which affects several pathological and physiological processes within the body.
However, CBDA does not affect the central nervous system directly, which may be beneficial for those who are seeking something less strong than CBD.
Although research is still in progress, studies suggest that CBDA’s unique working with these pathways might offer benefits, differentiating it from other cannabinoids in its potential applications for health and well-being.
How Does CBD Work?
CBD (cannabidiol) works with your body’s endocannabinoid system which is found all over the immune, central nervous, gastrointestinal, and reproductive organs.
This system plays a huge role in managing bodily functions and physiological processes such as sleep support, mood, appetite, memory, reproduction, etc. without inducing the psychoactive effects associated with THC.
Additionally, CBD influences serotonin receptors, which help to alleviate depression and anxiety.
CBD has less tendency to bind with CB1 and CB2 receptors. Instead, it works with them indirectly to promote a sense of overall calm and well-being.
What Are the Differences Between CBDA and CBD?
CBDA (cannabidiolic acid) and CBD (cannabidiol), both compounds are derived from cannabis but are different in their effects and chemical structures.
CBDA is the acidic precursor to CBD and is found in raw cannabis plants. When heated, it goes through decarboxylation to turn into CBD.
While both CBDA and CBD work with the endocannabinoid system, CBDA mainly inhibits the COX-2 enzyme, which is related to inflammation. In contrast, CBD binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors, influencing mood, pain, and immune responses.
On top of that, CBDA has shown great potential in the regulation of serotonin, making its therapeutic profile a bit different from CBD’s.
Other major cannabinoid precursor compounds are:
- THC comes from tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCa).
- CBC (cannabichromene) is preceded by CBCa (cannabichromene acid).
Potential Benefits of CBDA
CBDA is more beneficial for the body as compared to its decarboxylated counterpart CBD. Some of the therapeutic CBDA benefits are:
Alleviating stomach discomfort
The first one is its ability to relieve stomach discomfort through interacting with serotonin receptors in the digestive system. It can also reduce vomiting and nausea, making it potentially effective for those suffering from gastrointestinal problems.
Antimicrobial properties
Next is CBDA’s antimicrobial properties that let it be effective against certain types of bacteria. These properties also make CBDA a potential candidate for fighting bacterial infections and promoting overall health.
Infection
While CBDA effects on infections are still under research, its ability to inhibit the COX-2 enzyme can play a key role in relieving inflammation associated with infections which makes it a clinical compound in managing symptoms of various infections.
Anti-inflammatory
CBDA is a potent anti-inflammatory agent as it inhibits the COX-2 enzyme (which is linked to inflammatory responses) to reduce inflammation and pain. It also has a similar chemical structure to OTC products making scientists more faithful in its anti-inflammatory abilities.
Enhancing mood
CBDA can also boost mood and relieve anxiety, thanks to its influence on serotonin receptors, although more research is needed to understand this effect fully.
Last but not least, CBDA is potentially more bioavailable than CBD, resulting in higher concentrations of CBD in the bloodstream. This makes CBDA work faster and more effectively than CBD.
Potential Benefits of CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, is popular for its wide range of benefits, making it a preferable choice for those who are inclined more toward natural remedies.
Enhancing mood
CBD enhances mood by working with serotonin receptors in the brain and also reduces anxiety and depression, providing a sense of well-being without the psychoactive effects associated with THC.
Relieve aches & Stomach Discomfort
The most popular benefit of CBD is its ability to soothe aches and pains. By working with the endocannabinoid system, CBD can relieve inflammation and chronic pain issues such as fibromyalgia and arthritis.
On top of that, CBD can also soothe stomach issues by reducing vomiting and nausea, making it clinical for those with gastrointestinal problems.
Alleviate stress
CBD’s anxiolytic qualities make it effective in reducing stress. It modulates the body’s reaction to stress, inducing relaxation and a sense of peace. This can be particularly good for people who deal with high stress and anxiety levels.
Balance Appetite
While CBD doesn’t impact appetite directly, it plays an important role in regulating your hunger. By working with the endocannabinoid system, CBD can balance appetite, which can be good for those going through appetite changes due to medical issues or treatments.
How to Take CBDA?
CBDA, the acidic precursor to CBD, can be taken in different forms, each providing different CBDA benefits:
Raw CBD oil
The first and most popular is consuming CBDA directly through raw CBD oil. It is extracted from raw cannabis plants through a cold procedure, keeping the CBDA content intact.
It can be taken under the tongue (sublingually) for fast absorption into the blood, offering quick benefits.
CBDA capsule
The next method is CBDA capsules which are a handy option for those who are fond of a measured dosage.
The CBDA capsules contain CBDA in an oil or powdered form and can be taken with water, just like other dietary supplements. They offer a direct and discreet method of intake.
CBDA tincture
The third medium is liquid extracts that can be taken under the tongue (sublingually) or added to food and drinks. These are usually mixed with a carrier oil to boost absorption and can be incorporated into daily routines easily.
Edibles
CBDA-infused edibles, such as chocolates or gummies, offer a delicious and fun way to consume CBDA. They are great for individuals who don’t like oils or capsules but have a slower onset of effects than other mediums.
CBDA Topicals
Another effective method to use CBDA is CBDA topicals such as balms, creams, or salves that can be applied directly to the skin. They are great for targeting specific areas of discomfort or inflammation and offer an extra benefit for skin nourishment.
How to Take CBD?
CBD can be taken in different forms, each offering different methods of administration and unique benefits to the users:
CBD Oil
CBD oil is the most common and versatile form of CBD and can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) or infused into treats like smoothies, cookies, and teas. Although it takes a while to start working, its effects are longer-lasting than other CBD forms.
CBD Gummies
The next form is CBD gummies which are available in various flavors and potencies and offer a delicious, discreet, and handier way to enjoy CBD.
However, CBD gummies may take longer to show their effects than other forms as they are processed through the digestive system.
Topical CBD
The third one is topical CBD such as balms, creams, and salves that can be applied directly to the skin and do a great job in managing localized pain, inflammation, and skin conditions.
CBD Vape Oil
Now comes CBD vape oil which provides a quick and efficient way to experience the effects of CBD as CBD vape enters the bloodstream through the lungs quickly and provides instant relief. CBD vape oil is favored for its quick onset and ease of use.
CBD Capsules
Did you know that CBD capsules are a handy and accurate way to consume CBD? Each capsule contains measured CBD content and is super easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
They are discreet, easy to carry, and suitable for individuals who like a no-bs approach to their supplement intake.
CBD Nebulizer
Let’s shift our attention to CBD nebulizer which turns CBD into a mist that can be inhaled and felt the effects of in about half an hour.
CBD Nasal spray
Lastly, CBD nasal sprays can be administered up the nose and absorbed through the membranes of the nasal passage. They are fast and show their effects within 5-10 minutes.
Types of CBD Oil
There are 3 main types of CBD oil: Full Spectrum CBD oil, Broad Spectrum CBD oil, and Isolate CBD oil. So let’s take a deep look at them:
Broad Spectrum CBD Oil
Broad spectrum CBD oil contains a wide variety of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds present in the hemp plant but without any trace of THC and cannabis compounds of full spectrum CBD oil.
It is ideal for individuals who want to experience the entourage effect without the psychoactive effects of THC.
Broad spectrum CBD oil is usually preferred by individuals who want to stay away from THC, while still enjoying the holistic benefits of multiple cannabinoids. It may also contain CBDA, depending on the heat used during its extraction process.
Full Spectrum CBD Oil
Full spectrum CBD oil contains the full range of cannabinoids of the hemp plant, including a trace amount (0.3%) of THC. It is most popular among CBD enthusiasts, thanks to its wellness properties and ability to stimulate the “entourage effect”.
Like broad spectrum CBD oil, full spectrum CBD oil may also contain some CBDA, depending on the extraction process used.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate oil is the purest form of CBD oil, containing 99% CBD without any cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, or CBDA.
It is perfect for individuals who want to consume CBD without any hemp compounds and who undergo regular drug testing as it doesn’t have THC and any risk of psychoactive effects.
Conclusion
CBDA vs CBD, well by now you know that there is a huge difference. So even if you want to try them yourself, make sure to do it from high-quality and reputable retailers who can provide you with sufficient transparency and 3rd-party lab tests.
While some individuals find CBDA better for overall mood support and managing nausea symptoms better than CBD, the benefits of the latter outweigh CBDA in other areas.
So the best way to see what will work better for you CBDA or CBD is to try them yourself. Always start with low doses and gradually increase to let your system adjust to the supplementation.
FAQs About CBDA vs CBD
Is CBDA psychoactive?
No, CBD is not psychoactive and doesn’t produce a high or affect your mental state, making it a suitable compound for various therapeutic purposes.
Is CBD stronger than CBDA?
Yes, CBD is stronger than CBDA due to its direct interaction with the endocannabinoid system of the body whereas CBDA requires conversion to CBD through decarboxylation to show similar effects.
Are CBD and CBDA helpful for anxiety?
Yes, CBD and CBDA are both helpful for anxiety. While CBD is popular for its anxiolytic qualities, scientists have found that CBDA also might have potential anti-anxiety benefits.
However, please note that more studies are required to understand their mechanisms and effectiveness for anxiety relief.
Does CBD make you high?
No, CBD doesn’t make you high as it is non-psychoactive and doesn’t produce a euphoric effect. This property makes it safe for use and reaping its potential benefits without altering your mental state.
Can I mix CBD and CBDA?
Yes, you can mix CBD and CBDA, and doing so might enhance their potential benefits. But always make sure to consult your healthcare provider before combining them.