What is CBDa?
As the cannabinoid market continues to evolve consumers are seeing a multitude of products and extracts that contain other cannabinoids besides CBD. CBD has developed a reputation for possible effects that range from anxiety relief to inflammation relief, and a slew of other benefits. So what is different about CBDa? What exactly is it?
CBDa is the acidic precursor to CBD – meaning that with a catalyst, it converts into CBD. In the case of CBDa, the catalysts can be heat, oxidation, time, or a combination thereof. This process is called “decarboxylation.” It was originally thought to be required because the target molecule in hemp and hemp extracts was always CBD. As cannabis products become more and more popular, we start to wonder what about these other cannabinoids. How do they behave under different conditions? What can they do for us?
One thing studies are suggesting is that CBDa has an affinity for the 5-HT1A receptors. 5-HT1A receptors help regulate our moods, cognition, memory, and many other biological functions through Seratonin production. Drugs that exhibit high level activity on these receptors are considered to be antidepressants. Check out this study for more information on 5-HT1A receptors and what they do. Other studies suggest that it is superior to CBD because of it’s higher affinity for these receptors. At least twice as high in one study. 5-HT1A receptors also help to relieve nausea, so that is another potential benefit according to the research.
CBDa and Bioavailability
One of the most interesting things about CBDa is its ability to be more readily absorbed by our bodies. We get more of it in our bloodstream than we do CBD. Another study showed the possibility of something truly amazing. Full Spectrum extract showed the absorption of CBDa to be 14 times higher when administered versus CBDa as an individual molecule. This means that our minimally processed CBDa Oil is the best vehicle for its delivery.
We extract our CBDa oil using a Proprietary Liquid CO2 System. Because of our methodology, we are also able to retain the other valuable components like fatty acids, terpenes, and other cannabinoids along with the high levels of CBDa in the extract. This is great for our consumers because no harsh solvents must be introduced or removed as CO2 naturally dissipates from the oils, leaving behind a true-to-plant extract with the best possible profile.
CBDa and COX-2 Activity
COX-2 is enzyme that promotes inflammation through speeding up the production of chemical “messengers” called prostaglandins. If the enzyme can be inhibited, inflammation is reduced. This is the primary function of NSAID medications, like Ibuprofen and Naproxen. The drawbacks to them is that they can cause damage to organs like the liver. This study suggests that CBDa may be absorbed elsewhere in the body and may not pose the same risks as NSAIDs. Here is a brief explanation of COX-2 function and mechanisms regarding selective NSAIDs.
Want to try CBDa? We offer a variety of products that feature CBDa. Shop now!