With over a hundred known cannabinoids, terpenes, and other naturally-occurring plant compounds found in cannabis, there can be a lot to cover when it comes to these individual components. CBD and THC have always ruled in popularity in the therapeutic and recreational cannabis space. However, with the rise in consumer and medicinal interest in other cannabinoids and terpenes, there continues to be a growing interest in these compounds. CBDA is one of these naturally-occurring compounds and may offer its own set of therapeutic benefits.
What Is CBDA?
CBDA, short for cannabidiolic acid, is a compound that's naturally produced in all cannabis plants. It is particularly concentrated in live cannabis plants of the CBD variety. This is technically CBD in its original form- CBDA converts to CBD during the duration of the grow cycle as it is exposed to heat. Both CBD and THC stem from CBGA, or cannabigerolic acid, also known as the "mothership cannabinoid".
Through the natural synthesis process, plant enzymes are activated in order to convert CBGA to CBDA, THCA, and CBCA. Heat or UV exposure, which is referred to as decarboxylation, then converts CBDA to CBD. CBDA is the raw form of CBD and is found in a variety of cannabinoid products. Another source of CBDA is raw cannabis juice. Wholesalers and manufacturers can offer CBDA in an isolated form for formulating these various products.
The Therapeutic Potential of CBDA
It's important to note that the data available on CBDA is even more limited than on CBD and other cannabinoids. Although scientists have been studying this compound for about a decade, the data is still widely in its infancy. It's critical that more clinical data is created before we're able to define what therapeutic properties CBDA has. The following topics require further investigation:
While the majority of cannabinoids either bind or work as an antagonist for the CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBDA doesn't interact with these receptors. It actually interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system through inhibition of the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme. COX-2 enzymes have been connected to the body's inflammatory response after an infection or injury occurs. By blocking COX-2 enzymes, CBDA may offer pain and inflammation relief.
In addition to COX-2 enzymes, CBDA may also impact serotonin levels. An animal study discovered this potential which supports the need for further investigation in this area. Serotonin is a critical chemical that's essential for core physiological functions. Scientists have successfully demonstrated CBDA's impact on 5-HT serotonin-producing receptors, which means it may offer a therapeutic solution for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
The Advantages of CBDA
Preliminary research has found encouraging benefits among CBDA in the following areas:
- Anti-inflammatory: One research team found similarities in the molecular structures of CBDA and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In this study, both CBDA and NSAIDs were found to inhibit COX-2 receptors which may offer anti-inflammatory properties.
- Anticonvulsant: A study discovered that CBDA may be 100 times more effective than CBD in impacting 5-HT receptors. Researchers theorize that this could be due to the fact that CBDA is more bioavailable, allowing the body to better metabolize the compound quicker and easier.
- Antidepressant: CBD's relationship with 5-HT serotonin receptors may also deliver antidepressant qualities. In another study, CBDA was found to impact these serotonin receptors in a very similar way as SSRIs.
Clinical Data Available On CBDA
While most CBDA research is preclinical and animal-based, there is actually some clinical research available. GW Pharmaceuticals was required by the FDA to conduct clinical research on CBDA. Based on the company's clinical research, they have filed for two CBDA medical-use patents for inflammatory skin diseases and cancer treatment.
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Tenacious Labs Manufacturing is honored to be the leading white label CBD manufacturer serving the nation. We have partnered with all the industry leaders in extraction and cannabinoid sourcing. If you're interested in CBDA products, we can get you in touch with our trusted partners. We're always available to discuss your white label CBD needs. For more information regarding CBDA, please contact us!
