Cannabis has been cultivated and used by ancient civilizations since history has been recorded. Since approximately 2500 BC, China has used cannabis preparations to treat rheumatic pain, constipation, malaria and gynecological disorders. India also used the plant for its medicinal qualities, and this spread to Egypt, Rome and Greece. Even with its long history of use, new research on the benefits of cannabis is being released regularly.
What Is CBDA and How Does It Differ from CBD?
While CBD, or cannabidiol, has gotten a lot of press in recent years, there’s a similar component present in the cannabis plant that interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Cannabidiolic acid, or CBDA, is also a non-intoxicating compound linked to support muscle and joint comfort and improvements in mood*.
First discovered in 1955, CBDA is the raw precursor to CBD before it is decarboxylated—a process which occurs when CBDA is heated and converted into CBD. Decarboxylation eliminates most of the CBDA in the plant, leaving only trace amounts.
You may not have noticed, but most CBD products still contain a slight amount of CBDA. This occurs since some CBD gets left in its raw form during decarboxylation when it is not completely heated.
The Advantages of CBDA
To put it in a familiar context, think about raw fruits, vegetables or milk. They’re cooked and highly processed counterparts (such as spinach, beans, cocoa, cow milk) have a different make-up and nutrient density. It is the same with CBDA and CBD. CBD is typically extracted from cannabis using solvents that must be removed or remediated. This remediation strips the CBD of other valuable compounds.
Studies have shown CBDA to potentially have similar effects as CBD, help the absorption of CBD, and be more bioavailable or up to 1000 times stronger than CBD in certain applications.
How CBDA Works
Unlike CBD, which has a high affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, CBDA is thought to reduce swelling via inhibiting the Cox-2 enzyme similarly to ibuprofen. CBDA also interacts with CNS-5HT, a receptor linked with nausea, serotonin and depression. This makes CBD and CBDA a great combination as they may produce the same benefits in different ways.
The Benefits of CBDA
Studies on CBDA’s possible health benefits are ongoing, but a growing body of evidence supports its anti-swelling properties. Specifically, CBDA’s inhibition of Cox-2 enzyme has been shown to correspond with anti-swelling responses. Another interesting finding was that CBDA has better anti-swelling properties than THCA, the precursor to THC.
In addition, research has shown it could provide a number of benefits, including relieving nausea and vomiting, through the serotonin (5-HT1a) receptor. Serotonin is involved in important physiological responses such as sleep, arousal, appetite, temperature comfort, pain, emotion and clear thinking/focus. This receptor is the target for the pharmaceutical industry antidepressant medication research and product offerings.
CBDA Summary
CBDA is a very potent precursor to the more familiar CBD form, and they work well together. It is very bioavailable, thus facilitating greater impact with a lower amount than CBD. It definitely interacts with the endocannabinoid system, and unlike the CB-1 and CB-2 receptors that CBD uses, it responds to the serotonin (5-HT1a) receptor and the Cox-2 systems (related to swelling). While there is ongoing research to further substantiate the benefits, it is clear that the future is very promising for the potential role that CBDA plays in one’s health and wellness.
embodygreen’s CBD + CBDA Products
embodygreen offers two standout products tailored for busy professionals:
- Contains 50mg of plant-based CBD+CBDA per serving
- Helps maintain focus and reduce stress during work
- Supports mental clarity throughout the day
Deep Penetrating CBD + CBDA Muscle and Joint Cream
- Packed with 500mg of CBD+CBDA and cooling menthol
- Provides relief for tension caused by desk work
- Acts quickly to deliver comfort where it’s needed most
These products are made using clean extraction methods, ensuring high-quality CBD + CBDA for reliable stress relief. When shopping for CBD products to manage workplace stress, look for these key features:
- Verified third-party lab testing
- Clear labeling of CBD content
- Hemp sourced from organic, US-based farms
- Clean and safe extraction processes
- High concentration of CBDA
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. Our products and the information on this page are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.*
