CBD (cannabidiol) is a major talking point when it comes to hemp products. However, there are several other naturally occurring compounds found in hemp extracts, and they all benefit the body in different ways. For now, we’ll focus on two of these: CBD vs CBDA.
What Is CBD?
CBD is one of many compounds, called cannabinoids, found in the hemp plant. It’s also the most abundant, which is why hemp-derived extracts are commonly referred to as “CBD oil”. Our premium hemp extracts contain a robust profile of cannabinoids and terpenes that work in synergy to enhance the effects of CBD.
What Is CBDA?
The parent cannabinoid or “chemical precursor” to CBD is CBDA (cannabidiolic acid). We’ll avoid excessive science jargon here, however, you can check out our post on cannabinoids for a deeper dive into how they’re formed.
CBDA is the raw or unheated form of CBD. A living hemp plant naturally forms CBDA, which then becomes CBD during the process of extraction and refinement. As CBDA heats up, it turns into CBD. Unlike THC, both CBD and CBDA are non-intoxicating and cannot get you high.
That’s a basic overview of the difference between the two, but how do they differ in terms of benefits?
The Benefits of CBD vs CBDA
Both CBD and CBDA interact with the endocannabinoid system to help the body maintain a physiological balance called homeostasis. This balance is often described as a sense of calm, relaxation, and general well-being. We’re unable to make health claims related to hemp extracts, however, early studies are coming back with interesting results.
Research on the benefits of CBDA has primarily been conducted with animals like mice. Studies suggest this cannabinoid has its own unique properties and interacts with different receptors within the endocannabinoid system than CBD. Early research shows CBDA’s unique interaction with this system may provide a more potent soothing effect when ingested or applied topically.
We don’t have enough evidence from human trials to know exactly how these two compounds stack up against each other. At least, not the full picture. However, it would seem CBDA Body Cream is our most popular topical hemp product for a reason.
Why Not Both?
Good news! You can enjoy the benefits of both CBD and CBDA in most of our products. Not all CBDA gets converted into CBD during refinement so you’re likely to find traces of CBDA (plus other cannabinoids and terpenes) in several Hemplucid formulations.
We ensure every product is third-party tested so you can see exactly which cannabinoids are found in each and every Hemplucid product. Check out our online store and shop CBD tinctures, gummies, topicals, and more!
