A lot of people love CBD, but some of that appreciation should also go to cannabidiolic acid (CBDa). CBDa is 1 of 100 plus phytocannabinoids in hemp. However, it is one of the most essential because CBDa is the foundation to CBD and this phytocannabinoid has other potential benefits. Here is some information of what you need to know about CBDa oil.
What Is CBDa
CBDa is one of the most abundant phytocannabinoids present in hemp. It was first isolated in 1996, but it has not had many studies performed on it until recently.
CBDa is one of the main phytocannabinoids derived from the phytocannabinoid cannabigerol acid (CBGa). When CBGa cooperates with cannabidiolic acid (CDBA) synthase, it produces CBDa.
CBDa naturally turns into CBD as its ages in cannabis. CBD oil manufacturers can also make this process emerge in the controlled setting of their laboratories.
How Does CBDa Become CBD
CBDa transforms into CBD because of pressure. In farming environments, this pressure comes in the form of direct sunlight or lamps. This procedure is known as decarboxylation.
Decarboxylation breaks down an added carboxyl ring attached to the molecule chain of CBDa. Once this happens, CBD becomes stimulated.
Heat is the most common tool used for decarboxylation. It stimulates phytocannabinoids within hemp plant fibers. This energy infuses chemical reactions that alter the structure of CBDa to become CBD.
If home-growing you can also decarboxylate their hemp flowers to activate CBD. Place the hemp on a tray, in the oven, at a temperature of 240 °F.
After 15-20 minutes, flip over the buds and allow them to decarboxylate for another 15-20 minutes. Make sure that the flowers do not blacken, as it will damage the CBD content.
Oven temperatures vary depending on age, elevation, and other factors. Take into consideration when checking on your hemp. It might require more or less time to decarboxylate your hemp properly.
How CBDa Works
While producing CBD might be a great accomplishment of CBDa, it is not the only one. There may be some benefits to using CBDa oil on its own.
CBDa interacts with the body differently than other phytocannabinoids. Most phytocannabinoids either combine to or stimulate CB1 or CB2 receptors. These responses influence communication through our central nervous system known as the endocannabinoid system.
Unlike most phytocannabinoids, CBDa does not show much interest in either cannabinoid receptor. However, CBDa still seems to influence the endocannabinoid system positively by promoting the balance of the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme. In order, CBDa may provide its own unique wellness benefits.
Every phytocannabinoid presents its own special skill that positively impacts the endocannabinoid system. That's why it's so important to purchase broad spectrum CBD products rather than CBDa isolates. While CBDa distillate might be beneficial, broad spectrum CBD products are optimized to enhance the overall experience.
Benefits of CBDa
The benefits of CBD, THC, and other phytocannabinoids have been well-documented. However, CBD had to get its good qualities from somewhere. Here is is why CBDa oil might provide benefits for your daily routine, see below.
Joint and Muscle Health
A variety of things can cause uneasiness in joints and muscles. The presence of to much COX-2 can intensify these sensations.
COX-2 causes the body to produce prostaglandins. Levels of these hormones tend to be elevated in those with limited joint motion. Since CBDa may help balance COX-2, CBDa oil may support a healthy and active lifestyle.
Is CBDa Legal
CBDa is the precursor to CBD, a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid. Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp has been decriminalized as a Schedule 1 controlled substance. Therefore, the sales and possession of CBDa oil are legal on a federal level but laws may vary in states.
There are select states that require a medical card to purchase CBD oil. In these states, CBDa oil may not be easy to find or unavailable.
If you are a medical cannabis patient and are traveling with CBDa oil that has THC in its formula, make sure you have your card with you. Otherwise, always do your research on local cannabis laws before traveling with hemp oils.
How to Use CBDa
Hemp is one of the most versatile plants in the world and nutrients can be used in a variety of ways. See below how you can add CBDa to your daily routine.
Hemp Juice
Raw hemp flowers are some of the richest sources of CBDa. Juicing hemp will provide you with fresh phytocannabinoids and other nutrients. Raw hemp has a strong plain flavor, you can cut a small piece of fresh ginger or some fruit to sweeten it up.
CBDa Drops
There is not a large market for hemp extracts with high levels of CBDa. However, MontKush has a CBDa-rich CBD drop available.
CBDa Topicals
CBDa topicals are growing in popularity. ChyloCure has a unique blend called chylobinoid that they use to formulate CBDa topicals.
How to Shop for CBDa
With the rising interest in hemp products, low-grade CBDa products might be common. It is important that you read the ingredients thoroughly before making any purchases.
In addition, that all the ingredients come from natural or organic sources. Low-quality ingredients will certainly reduce the effects of CBDa oil.
Check that the company performs Third-Party Lab testing. Reading a lab report will ensure that your product is free from potential pollutants, toxic chemicals, or unwanted phytocannabinoids like THC. While reading the lab report, verify the CBDa content.
Do you have questions about shopping for CBD products? We are more than happy to help you make the best decision about your wellness.