Did you google "what does CBDA stand for" and land on this page? You're in luck, because this is the easy-to-understand guide to CBDA that you've been looking for.
Many people use CBDA for pain. Others use CBDA for inflammation, anxiety, and depression. However, few CBDA users genuinely understand CBDA benefits, CBDA effects and side effects, or CBDA bioavailability.
Read on to learn more about CBDA, including CBDA vs CBD and which one might be better for you!
What Is CBDA?
Let's start at the beginning by breaking it down. What does CBDA stand for? CBDA stands for cannabidiolic acid.
CBDA was the first discovered cannabinoid acid, and it was isolated in 1955. It is thought to have a potent antimicrobial effect, and scientists are still studying CBDA to learn more about its full potential.
CBDA is found in the trichomes of raw or dried cannabis, before it is decarboxylated (exposed to heat, light, or other factors that change the chemical structure). Trichomes are found mostly in the buds and leaves of hemp plants.
Although CBD often gets all the attention, CBDA actually is the main phytocannabinoid in hemp plants cultivated for fiber or seed-oil.
CBDA to CBD Conversion
CBDA is just the carboxylated form of CBD. That's science speak for saying that they are simply a few broken bonds away from being the same compound. Put simply, CBDA is the acidic form of CBD.
While they are related, the small yet significant differences may have a profound positive effect on the human body. CBDA has been linked to studies involving breast cancer cells, serotonin receptors, nausea and vomiting, and even more.
CBDA vs CBD
CBD-dominant cannabis plants contain raw cannabis, meaning CBDA is naturally present. Raw cannabis is actually unlikely to promote intoxicating effects. This is because cannabis naturally contains cannabinoid acids, which need to first be decarboxylated to turn into more potent cannabinoid substances, like CBD or THC.
People prefer CBDA to CBD because it is non-intoxicating by nature, while still providing potential health benefits.
CBDA Benefits & Bioavailability
CBDA is often compared to the next most common cannabinoid acid, THCA. Looking at the behavior of both of these acids can tell us more about how they act in the body.
Other common cannabinoid acids include the following, which might look similar to cannabinoids you've seen (with an "A" for acid added on the end):"
- CBGA
- CBNA
- CBCA
In scientific studies, these compounds are shown most commonly to be stored extracellularly. Researchers think they may be cytotoxic, meaning they help to cause cell death or damage to cells and substances that threaten the body (i.e. venom).
The current research suggests potential health benefits of CBDA may include the following properties:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiemetic
- Anti-convulsant
- Anti-cancerogenic
As mentioned above, we don't know exactly what the bioactive mechanisms of CBDA are. Since it does come from the raw, pure cannabis plant, researchers think that CBDA works better for some people and may be more bioavailable in the body.
In Conclusion on CBDA
Whether you're a first time CBDA user or just want to know more, it's important to note that everyone is different. Like any other CBD products or CBD oil, it's important to "start low and go slow" when trying out a new cannabinoid or cannabinoid acid. CBDA interacts with your endocannabinoid system to help create balance in the body, which is why it is important to find the products and amounts that work best for you individually.
Don't know where to start with CBDA? Try our popular CBDA Body Cream (a favorite among Hemplucid employees — especially in the winter).
Topical products are great for when you're just starting out with cannabis and hemp. Order our CBDA body cream today!
References
Kyle E. Easy, Beginner's Guide to Cannabis Decarboxylation. Emilykylenutrition.com. Published November 20, 2021.
Kyle E. How To Make A CBDA Tincture + Cannabidolic Acid Benefits. Emilykylenutrition.com. Published July 24, 2021.
Martino LD. Cannabidiolic Acid, a Still Overlooked Bioactive Compound: An Introductory Review and Preliminary Research. Molecules. 2020;25(11):2638.
ScienceDirect. Cannabidiolic Acid. Sciencedirect.com. Accessed 2021.
