Cannabidiolic acid (CBDa) is a compound found abundantly in living hemp and cannabis plants. Just like cannabidiol (CBD), this molecule interacts with our endocannabinoid system as a cannabinoid; it can offer health benefits ranging from pain relief to mood enhancement.

CBDa is the acidic form of CBD and has the same relationship that THCa has with THC. Dr. Adie Poe, an associate scientist at the Legacy Research Institute in Portland (Oregon), explained to Weedmaps that "the plant produces the acidic form, and the acidic form is decarboxylated (activated) by heat".

In other words, CBDa is simply the "raw" or unheated form of CBD. When CBDa is heated, it converts to CBD.

 Is CBDa better than CBD?

Sometimes referred to as the "mother of all cannabinoids," CBDa has been shown to act more potently than CBD and THCa in various animal studies.

A study conducted by Japanese researchers and published in 2008 found that both CBDa and THCa had an anti-inflammatory effect, but the former proved to be the stronger of the two.

Another study by the same team and published in 2017 demonstrated the potential anti-tumor properties of CBDa. This study looked at the compound's ability to combat the development of highly aggressive breast cancer cells.

Regarding nausea, a 2013 study evaluated CBDa's ability to reduce nausea and vomiting in animal models. The results revealed that the compound reduced toxin-induced and motion-induced vomiting, acting more potently than CBD. The researcher noted: "Consequently, CBDa shows promise as a treatment for nausea and vomiting".

What is CBDa used for?

One way to experience the potential benefits of CBDa is in homemade foods and beverages. According to Poe: "CBDa is an important component of a full-spectrum raw extract. Hemp kief in your smoothie is equivalent to a good anti-inflammatory micronutrient".

A CBDa-infused smoothie may also contain superfoods like kale, spinach, and ginger root. This type of beverage won't get you high because THC is not an ingredient, but it can help combat inflammation in the body.

With information from WeedMaps