CBDA vs CBD: Differences, Benefits and Effects

Posted by felipe@cbdvapejuice.net on 18th Dec 2022


Researchers have been studying the cannabis plant for decades, which is how we uncovered its cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes, and more. One of the most essential compounds found in the plant is cannabidiol (CBD) because of its medical potential.





As more and more studies are being done to make more discoveries about the plant and its cannabinoids, people also get to know more. One thing that can be confusing is the naming of these cannabinoids, especially if you are not familiar with how main cannabinoids develop.





Here, you will learn more about a lesser-known substance called cannabidiolic acid. So, what is CBDA vs CBD? Are CBD and CBDA the same? Keep reading to know the answer. 





What Is CBDA?













Most people who have an awareness of cannabis probably have some level of familiarity with CBD, thanks to its popularity. However, not many know about CBDA, despite it being an essential component of cannabis. In this discussion of CBDA vs CBD, you will get to know both of these compounds. 





So, what exactly is cannabidiolic acid? The best way to understand this cannabinoid is to learn how the plant develops CBDA and CBD. 





You see, a cannabis plant first creates cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), which is often referred to as the mother of all cannabinoids. This is because CBGA has been determined to be the common predecessor of all cannabinoids when exposed to heat or when left to develop overtime.





This transformation happens in stages. The first part is when CBGA is converted into tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabichromenic acid (CBCA), and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) through synthesis. 





When these acids are exposed to heat, they convert to their respective counterparts. So, THCA becomes THC, CBCA becomes CBC, and CBDA becomes CBD. To put it more simply, CBDA is the unsynthesized form or the precursor of CBD. 





Knowing exactly what CBDA is, you might be wondering how it compares to the primary cannabinoid. Read more to find detailed information about CBD vs CBDA.





What is the Difference Between CBD and CBDA?





Having discussed this process, the main difference between CBD and CBDA is the fact that CBDA is the precursor or raw form of CBD. To get a bigger picture of CBDA vs CBD, let us tackle their respective effects. 





CBD has always been praised for its medical potential. Some of its effects include pain-relief, inflammation relief, relaxation, calmness, and better mood. CBDA also shows potential for these.





However, what makes CBDA unique is that it is more potent compared to CBD. It has shown a positive impact on nausea and vomiting, while THC surpasses CBD in this regard. 





This higher level of impact offered by CBDA can be attributed to it being the base form of CBD. However, this also means that it is less stable than CBD. 





Another thing you should know is that cannabinoids like CBD and THC interact with the endocannabinoid system’s CB1 and CB2 receptors, which is how they deliver their effects.





CBDA does not work this way. In order to make its impact known, CBDA blocks enzymes that are linked to inflammation, helping alleviate it, as well as pain related to the condition. 





Does CBD Oil Contain CBDA?













After talking about CBDA vs CBD, you might be wondering if you can reap the benefits offered by both products. If you decide to get it in oil form, will it have both cannabinoids?





The answer to this depends on the product itself. There are different kinds of cannabis-infused oils in the market. You will find products that only contain CBD isolates. 





You will also be able to purchase ones that contain full-spectrum cannabinoids, which means that it has every chemical compound extracted from the plant. If it comes from hemp, then it is likely to contain only 0.3% THC along with other substances like CBDA, terpenes, and flavonoids. 





However, if the full-spectrum extract is from marijuana, it may have more than 0.3% THC, so make sure to pick ones from hemp if THC is not something you want to try. 





If you want to get CBD oil that also contains CBDA, look for full-spectrum hemp products. Nevertheless, keep in mind that you can get items that solely contain CBDA including in oil, capsules, and tincture forms. 





What Do CBDA and CBD Do To The Body?













Now that you know more about these two cannabinoids, you might be wondering what they would do to your body when you take them.





Let’s start with CBD. This one is deemed the most therapeutic of them all. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration has recognized its uses in medicine by approving the use of Epidiolex for Dravet Syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. Epidiolex contains a purified form of CBD.





The approval given to Epidiolex is based on its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in managing the two mentioned rare cases of epilepsy. 





Aside from being an anti-inflammatory substance, CBD can also help relieve pain, which makes it a great treatment aid for chronic conditions like arthritis and cancer-related pains. 





CBD is also a relaxing and calming agent, which is why it is often used by individuals suffering from mental health issues like mood disorders including depression and anxiety. Moreover, it can be used as a sleep aid for those having trouble falling or staying asleep. 





Given the potential use of CBD, you might be wondering: Is CBDA good for anxiety, sleep issues, and the like? 





When weighing CBDA vs CBD benefits, it is interesting to see that CBDA also has similar properties. For example, an animal study showed that rodents exposed to CBDA show an increase in serotonin levels, which can affect a person’s 





Is there a difference in CBDA vs CBD for pain? The answer lies in how the two substances interact with the endocannabinoid system. CBD helps relieve inflammation pain by directly binding to cannabinoid receptors, while CBDA works by blocking inflammation-related enzymes. 





Another thing you should remember is that while CBDA and CBD have benefits, they can also have side effects. So, what are CBDA and CBD effects that can be considered negative?  





CBD and CBDA can cause dry mouth, drowsiness, lightheadedness, and slight mood changes. With CBD, you should also watch out for gastrointestinal issues and nausea. 





Are CBD & CBDA Legal And Safe For Me?













Now that you know the different characteristics of CBDA vs CBD, you might be more interested in trying products infused with CBDA or CBD. If you are worried about the safety and legality of using such products, the first thing you should know is that one of them has been legalized on the federal level.





If you have been following marijuana laws in the United States, you probably know that marijuana is federally illegal, but hemp has been widely legalized across the country. This is all thanks to the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018.





This law federally legalized hemp or cannabis plants that contain 0.3% THC or less. Meanwhile, anything that contains more than 0.3% THC is classified as marijuana, therefore, illegal at the federal level. THC remains a controlled substance. 





Within the same law, the US government removed cannabidiol from the list of controlled substances. The main reason why the law is more accepting of CBD is that it is non-psychoactive and non-intoxicating.  





Another chemical compound that does not make you high is CBDA. If you are wondering if this substance is legal, the answer is yes. You can safely get products infused with THC, so you do not have to worry about getting in trouble.





You can legally get CBD and CBDA products. The question is, is it safe? You will be glad to know that consuming such goods is perfectly fine, as long as you take them moderately and responsibly. 





The best way to keep yourself safe when taking any of the two, especially if it is your first time, is to stay indoors or in a safe space before. Then, make sure to take a small amount at the beginning and wait for the impact. 





This can take 30 minutes to two hours, so patience is required. One thing to remember is that cannabinoids can stay in your system for many hours.





Once the effects kick in, try to determine if you are getting your expected results. Then, you can adjust the dosage as needed. Make sure to refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery if you are not feeling up to it. 





The Best Place To Buy CBD And CBDA Near Me













Now that you know the details about CBDA vs CBD, you might be more inclined to try products containing either of the two or both. If this is your first time, the most important thing to do is to get the right item that suits your needs. You can check out the CBD Genesis shop to know your options. 





Our store delivers various kinds of cannabis products, ranging from those containing CBD and CBDA to other cannabinoids such as THC, CBG, CBN, THCV, and many more.





The best part is that they come in different forms that can satisfy your needs and preferences, as well as address your concerns. Looking for the best types of products to try? Here are some of the most popular options









The CBD Genesis website carries a wide variety of items that some may not be aware of such as cannabinoid-infused dog treats, pain salves, and hemp isolate powders. 





The trick to finding the right product is identifying your needs and preferences and looking for goods that satisfy those. For example, if you want a straightforward and convenient experience, then you should go for pills, capsules, or soft gels. 





Different forms of cannabinoid-infused products have their own sets of pros and cons, so you should find out if they will work to your advantage. 





Make sure to check if you are purchasing products that are CBD isolates or full-spectrum. If you are not sure what to do, opt for hemp oil or other hemp products.









Those who are looking for a tasty, yet effective option should take a look at what CBD edibles have to offer. As the name implies, these products are food items that are CBD-infused. 





What you need to know about edibles is that it comes in different types. You will find products like gummies, worms, sour strips, and cubes. These are perfect people who love candies. They usually come in different flavors based on strains, making them more enjoyable. 





If you are into a more delectable treat, then you should look for CBD chocolates or baked goods like cookies or brownies. Just keep in mind that ingesting CBD can take longer to take effect. 









If you think you can only purchase marijuana flowers, you will be glad to know that hemp flowers are available in our shop, particularly those with high concentrations of CBD and low THC levels.





You will find flowers in different strains, each of which offers a unique flavor and aroma. Picking the right one can maximize your experience.





The best part is that you can purchase flowers, which you can grind and roll yourself, or you can get pre-rolls for a more convenient experience. 









Perhaps one of the most versatile options out there are CBD-infused tinctures because they are easy to mix into different things. If you get an oil-based tincture, you can easily place a few drops into your food, mouth, or under your tongue.





Alcohol-based tinctures also function the same, but you can easily blend them into drinks because it mixes well with liquids, unlike oil.





Remember, though, that different application methods can affect the impact speed. For example, oral ingestion can take longer compared to sublingual application. Make sure to factor this in when using tinctures. 





Final Thoughts





While CBDA vs CBD has essential differences, the two also share a lot of similarities, especially in terms of impact. If you are interested in trying these two cannabinoids, check out what CBD Genesis has to offer.