Cannabis has been among humans for centuries as a natural remedy, an escape from reality, and more. Research into the field has helped shed light on a rich list of therapeutic effects that the plant can have on the body but you may be wondering how this is possible. The answer is hidden in the diverse set of cannabinoids found within the plant. Both marijuana and hemp possess valuable compounds, known as cannabinoids, which have the ability to boost the function of the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body.

These receptors are part of humans’ endocannabinoid system and are responsible for things like memory, pain perception, hormone release, and other essential processes. Although cannabis’ popularity is mainly related to THC and CBD, the two most prevalent cannabinoids in the plant, there are a total of 113 powerful and valuable cannabinoids worth exploring. Let’s look into CBDA, explain what it is, see how it compares to CBD, and see its effects on the body when consumed.

CBDA – What is it?

CBDA is short for cannabidiolic acid and is a naturally occurring substance found in the resin or trichomes of raw cannabis. CBDA is mostly discovered in small doses, unlike its counterpart CBD. In fact, CBD originates from CBDA and is activated once the plant is processed or exposed to heat. In other words, it is essential that the plant goes through the process of decarboxylation in order for CBD to be activated. Both CBD and CBDA have the have parent and originate from CBGA. Thanks to a certain enzyme, CBDA synthase transforms CBGA into CBDA. 

Unlike THC, CBDA is not an intoxicating substance and will not cause euphoria or other mind-altering sensations. The compound can be found in larger amounts in hemp and can actually be in higher quantity compared to CBD due to the raw and natural form of the plant. In marijuana plants, CBDA can be spotted in high-CBD strains, which are the less common ones to come by when compared to high-THC strains. However, with the increased interest in the therapeutic benefits of CBD, more producers are focusing on the creation of high-CBD strains.

The uses of CBDA

While CBD is predominantly consumed through specific CBD products such as CBD oil, CBD tinctures, CBD edibles, and more, most CBDA fans consume the compound by eating or drinking the raw cannabis plant. It is not uncommon for consumers to prepare their favorite salad mixed with cannabis leaves or mix the plant with their morning smoothie juice. For those in search of an increased effect, the cannabis buds can be directly blended with other products to create an enhanced juice or smoothie.

Regardless of the consumption method you choose, there is a range of health benefits associated with CBDA that research has provided. The compound can be used for a range of health conditions to treat or soothe discomforts. Here are some of CBDA’s top qualities, which make it an attractive alternative to standard medication:

Fights off cancer

One of CBDA’s most powerful characteristics is its ability to act as an anti-cancer agent in the body. Research on breast cancer has revealed its positive effect in stopping cancer cells from growing and spreading. Studies have also demonstrated the acid’s ability to destroy genes related to metastasis. The process of metastasis is, in fact, accountable for 90% of breast cancer fatalities and is a threatening activity to be taking place in the human body.

Treats anxiety and depression

If you have done research on CBD you probably would have come across its anxiety curing traits. In a similar way, its parent acid CBDA is closely related to curing anxiety symptoms and other psychotic disorders. The compound even has a patent created by GW Pharmaceuticals in 2011 allowing it to be explored further as a pharmaceutical drug. The acid, along with other cannabinoids such as CBD, THCV, CBG, and more, are all related to soothing the mind and improving one’s mood.

Offers anti-inflammatory benefits

Research on CBDA has uncovered that the acid can have a similar effect to that of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Studies on cell cultures have revealed its impact as an anti-inflammatory agent and its ability to substitute medicaments such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin. Especially for patients suffering from arthritis, CBDA can be a valuable source with no side-effects, unlike standard pharmaceuticals.

Reduces nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting and two unpleasant side-effects and symptoms of a number of diseases. Consuming raw cannabis can substantially reduce the symptoms and help the stomach recover its normal balance. When compared to CBD, CBDA showed a stronger effect in activating certain cell receptors in the rodents’ brainstem – the 5-HT1A receptor. It is among the serotonin receptors discovered on top of human and animal cells and although it is closely related to depression, it also plays a role in controlling nausea and vomiting.

As we can see, CBD and CBDA may originate from the same place but provide distinct and unique qualities for consumers. Although more research in required in the field of cannabis, it is already becoming apparent that the cannabinoids found within the plant are a powerful substitute to chemically created medicaments.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4009504/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25242400

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3596650/

http://www.patentsencyclopedia.com/app/20110038958

http://dmd.aspetjournals.org/content/36/9/1917.long

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