CBDA vs CBD: The Difference & The Benefits

CBDA vs CBD: The Difference & The Benefits
CBD is skyrocketing in popularity for its medicinal benefits. As we become more conscious of ways to naturally bolster health and manage pain, attention is on the incredible properties of cannabinoids such as CBD and CBDA. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found within the cannabis plant. These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This is a network within the body which controls things such as appetite, energy, and mood. Cannabinoids interact naturally with the endocannabinoid system, mimicking the body’s natural process with the system. Certain cannabinoids, such as CBD and CBDA, interact with the body without the psychoactive effects that are attributed to other cannabinoids. This means that they are extremely promising for their medicinal properties, and further research continues to show how this can be a useful tool in the quest to live optimally.

CBD: What We Know

CBD is one of the most popular cannabinoid forms on the market today. This is due to its health benefits, along with the lack of psychoactive effects. CBD comes from the hemp plant, which is a form of the cannabis plant with naturally low occurring levels of THC. CBD interacts with the body by binding to the CB1 receptor in the endocannabinoid system. Here, CBD interacts in a non-addictive way, making it a helpful tool with rare negative effects when completed in human trials.

CBD today boasts an overwhelming amount of properties for human benefit. According to Harvard Medical School, CBD can act as a calming agent to promote mental wellness and clarity. Studies have linked CBD with being able to reduce anxiety and insomnia, protecting a healthy state of mind. CBD is also prized for its anti-inflammatory traits. For athletes or people accustomed to banging up their bodies, this is especially beneficial as it can help manage joint pain caused by inflammation. These are a few of the well-researched health benefits of CBD.

CBDA: What’s the Difference?

CBDA sounds remarkably similar to CBD - and research is still searching for exactly how closely these two cannabinoid forms may be related. When looking at the cannabis plant, the ‘mother of all cannabinoids,’ or CBGA, produces three main cannabinoid forms: CBDA, THCA, and CBGA. These cannabinoids are in their acidic forms and must be activated to produce cannabinoids such as CBD. This process is known as decarboxylation, where the acidic form interacts with heat and thus becomes pharmacologically activated. When CBDA interacts with heat, it turns into the popular CBD.

The main difference between CBD and CBDA is their form within the cannabis plant. In the past, most people believed that CBDA did not hold any of the medicinal properties of CBD. However, there are recent challenges to this idea as CBDA may host similar benefits to CBD. Further research is being conducted on this possibility, however, CBDA has been linked to a decrease in nausea, especially for cancer patients, along with a reduction in addictive behaviors.

CBD & CBDA: A Health Tool

So what’s the deal with these cannabinoids? For those always on the go, unlocking their medicinal properties can be key to supporting a healthy lifestyle. For example, CBD is known to reduce anxiety and restore a clear, calm mind. Along with the mental benefits, its anti-inflammation properties support joint health, aiding those always on the go. These are well-researched effects and have led to CBD being a strong candidate for supporting overall well-being in the health sector.

For the past few decades, researchers have also looked more heavily into how CBDA can be equally effective in supporting health. In a 2008 research study, scientists found that CBDA may possess similar anti-inflammatory properties to that of CBD, especially in comparison to normal anti-inflammatory medicine. Along with this, CBDA can be unlocked as a powerful tool for those struggling with nausea in a quicker and more effective way than CBD. Finally, scientists are looking into the possibility of CBDA as a potential antidepressant. CBDA has the potential to interact with the body in similar ways as serotonin uptakes. However, research is limited and mainly in animal trials as research extends further about the potential benefits of CBDA.

CBD: A Tool To Living Optimally

Performing at your best means finding what works for you - and utilizing tools available to support a healthy lifestyle despite day-to-day demands. For people who are used to putting their bodies on the line - whether veterans or athletes - finding a tool that supports the body while also aiding the mind is key. At VRB labs, we know how everything from inflammation to insomnia can impact overall wellbeing, and seek to provide tools to combat whatever barriers are in place for optimal performance.

CBD can aid in both focus and rest. VRB’s Focus + Calm is a CBD blend containing seven natural ingredients to give you the calm focus you need to get life done.

Can’t seem to turn your mind off? VRB’s Rest was made for those who are busy during the day and need support to get critical rest for the mind and body. Sleep is one of the most important functions of the body, and is critical for optimal performance. VRB Labs hones in on how to utilize cannabinoids such as CBD to support optimal function so that you can live optimally and be supported in the journey.

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