The cannabis plant contains over 100 different cannabinoids. THC and CBD are the most commonly known, but many others are highly beneficial for the body. One of these lesser-known cannabinoids is CBDA (cannabidiolic acid). While CBDA is similar to CBD, there are distinct differences. So what is CBDA? How is CBDA different from CBD? Here’s our complete guide to CBDA. 

What is CBDA?

CBDA is one of the rawest forms of hemp extract available. It is the unheated precursor to CBD. The hemp plant does not directly produce CBD; it produces CBDA, which converts to CBD through a process known as decarboxylation.

Like CBD, CBDA interacts with our bodies endocannabinoid system to provide benefits ranging from pain management to stress relief. Both CBD and CBDA are non-intoxicating compounds. 

How is CBDA different from CBD?

Research on CBDA is still in its early stages, but early findings show that small amounts can have significant effects. CBDA is more bioavailable (up to 11 times more) than CBD. This means the body more readily absorbs CBDA. Not only is it more easily absorbed, but it may be more potent. Based on studies of rodent models, CBDA mitigated nausea, stress-induced anxiety, pain, inflammation, and seizures better than CBD. Similar studies have not been conducted on humans yet, but CBDA may likely be more effective than CBD at smaller serving sizes. 

CBD or CBDA? Which product is best for me?

For those new to hemp products, we recommend starting with CBD. Most of our customers find the relief they seek from CBD alone. However, everybody is different in what their body needs to reach homeostasis (balance). If you have already tried CBD and are looking for an extra boost, trying CBDA is a great idea. 

You should try CBDA if:

• You’ve tried CBD in the past and have been unsatisfied with the results
• You want to try CBDA’s powerful benefits
• You experience extreme imbalances (pain, stress, sleep disturbances, etc.)

How to use CBDA isolate

CBDA can be added to your tinctures or topicals to supercharge them or taken sublingually (under the tongue) for powerful, fast-acting relief. We suggest using CBDA in conjunction with CBD. This creates a more well-rounded effect by synergizing benefits from more plant components. 

As CBDA is more potent in smaller amounts, it is a good idea to start small and build up as needed. A pea-sized scoop is a good place to start. As with all cannabinoids, using CBDA consistently will provide the best results. It can take up to a month of consistent use for the cannabinoid to build up within the body. 

Please note that CBDA presents a more robust hemp flavor than CBD. Some customers prefer to follow with a dropper of CBD oil or a beverage.

Having trouble deciding if CBDA is right for you? Reach out to us via our online chat, or email us at support@purespectrumcbd.com to discuss which products are best suited to your needs. 

Sources 

Pellesi, Lanfranco, et al. ” European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology 74.11 (2018): 1427-1436.

Takeda, Shuso, et al. Drug Metabolism and Disposition 36.9 (2008): 1917-1921.

Rock, E. M., et al. British Journal of Pharmacology 169.3 (2013): 685-692.

Rock, Erin M., et al. Psychopharmacology 234.14 (2017): 2207-2217

Anderson, Lyndsey L., et al. Journal of natural products 82.11 (2019): 3047-3055.