Cannabinoids—those well-known compounds found in the hemp plant with such renowned benefits—can be complex to understand. Among the long list of cannabinoids, the CBD and CBDA easily stand out. CBD needs no introduction, as its legalization has accelerated its widespread use, while CBDA remains relatively unknown. To better understand what connects—but also what distinguishes—these two substances, here are the key things to know.
Definition of CBD and Its Therapeutic Effects
The legalization of CBD in France has been a long and arduous process, but it has not been in vain. CBD is now officially legal, freely available on the market, and, most importantly, recognized as a substance that is completely safe for one’s health. Aside from the possibility of drug interactions, there are no real precautions or concerns regarding CBD use.
As a cannabinoid, CBD is believed to offer a wide range of health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory effects, the ability to aid digestion, reduce stress, alleviate insomnia, and promote a highly satisfying sense of general well-being—all without the psychotropic risks associated with THC. All of these therapeutic effects are made possible by the interaction of cannabidiol molecules with our endocannabinoid system—also known as the endogenous cannabinoid system.
The CB1 and CB2 receptors make up this system and are distributed throughout the entire human body. Their role includes interpreting levels of stress or happiness, as well as perceiving the level of pain. By consuming CBD, anyone can positively alter these so-called nociceptive perceptions. By interacting with these CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBD can inhibit perceptions of stress and pain while enhancing feelings of happiness and relaxation. What about CBDA?
What is CBDA?
CBDA is short for cannabidiolic acid, another cannabinoid found in the hemp plant.
But before defining CBDA, it is essential to trace the process of evolution—or growth—of the hemp plant.
As the hemp plant grows, a certain molecule is present in particularly high quantities: CBGA, short for cannabigerolic acid. CBGA can be considered the true precursor to all the cannabinoids we know. THC and CBD are therefore not “original” cannabinoids—far from it. THCA and CBDA are, respectively, the precursors to THC and CBD.
In order for CBDA to become CBD, the hemp plant must be dried properly. This ensures that its effects are distributed evenly, resulting in a compound suitable for regular use and with very few contraindications.
Keep in mind, however, that there’s a reason CBDA is considered the “mother” of CBD. CBDA is extremely strong and potent, which is a double-edged sword. It may be effective in relieving significant ailments, including severe nausea, but it’s recommended that you avoid taking too high a dose or consult your doctor for medical advice.
What is the current status of CBDA research?
The fact that CBD is now legal means that research on it has increased tenfold in recent years. The same cannot be said for CBDA, which remains largely unknown to the general public and has been little studied. Only with a significant increase in clinical trials will we be able to inform public opinion on the subject of CBDA. In the meantime, some scientific research conducted on cells does, however, provide some insight into its effects.
The main line of research is focused on anxiety relief through CBDA. Studies have shown that CBD, or cannabidiol, may have a positive effect on social anxiety in users. This is thought to be made possible by CBD’s interaction with serotonin receptors. CBDA, however, is said to be 100 times more effective and have 100 times greater affinity for serotonin receptors than CBD. 100 times more! Building on this, scientific research has gone on to highlight CBDA’s potential anti-nausea effects.
It is important to note, however, that this research is still in its early stages. So far, it has been conducted only on cells in the laboratory and on animals. The coming years will undoubtedly be crucial for learning more about CBDA and its secrets.
CBD vs. CBDA: What You Need to Know About the Differences
Yes, CBD and CBDA have similarities that are hard to deny. CBDA is simply the precursor molecule to CBD, and neither has any psychotropic effects.
The differences between them are more subtle. First of all, from a chemical standpoint, CBDA is an acid, while CBD is relatively neutral. This has a significant impact on the substance’s potency and side effects, factors that are easily manageable in the case of CBD. For example, it is possible to consume CBD in oil form at various concentrations, ranging from themildest at 5% to the strongest at 10%. The strength can therefore be adjusted by the user, whereas CBDA does not offer this flexibility.
Furthermore, it has been noted that CBDA is particularly effective at providing both immediate and long-lasting relief from nausea and vomiting, whereas CBD does not have this effect.
Finally, the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant effects of CBD appear to be absent or minimal in CBDA. However, scientific research on this topic is still limited, so we will need to wait a while before we can fully understand the effects of CBDA.
The Complementary Nature of CBD and CBDA
Beyond their differences, it appears that CBD and CBDA complement each other in certain ways. More and more studies are showing that these two cannabinoids have the greatest potential for action when they interact together. They may be able to enhance each other’s potency, thereby significantly increasing the intensity and duration of the effects experienced. However, caution is advised on this point. As noted earlier, research on CBDA is still ongoing, so there is insufficient scientific evidence to recommend the simultaneous use of CBD and CBDA.
