Cannabidiolic acid, or CBDA, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, which means it will not get you high. It is the raw, unheated precursor of CBD. CBD and CBDA are just two of the more than 110 cannabinoids in the cannabis plant.

All cannabinoids come from cannabigerol acid, or CBDA commonly referred to as “the mother of all cannabinoids.” Plant enzymes then convert CBGA into a combination of the three major cannabinoid precursor compounds, which are tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabichromenic acid (CBCA), and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA). The combination is determined by the cannabis strain from which they were obtained.

What is CBDA?

CBDA is a chemical compound present in the trichomes (resin glands) of fresh cannabis plants, i.e., fresh leaves and flowers cut from the plant. CBDA is the precursor of the more common cannabidiol (CBD). In new cannabis, around 95% of the compound is present as THCA and the remainder as CBDA.

When CBDA is exposed to heat, it is reduced from its acidic form and becomes CBD. The process by which CBDA is converted to CBD is known as decarboxylation or decarbing.

In certain strains of cannabis plants, CBDA is the more abundant cannabinoid. High-CBD strains have the most significant amount of CBDA. But unlike strains high in tetrahydrocannabinol, THC, which are psychoactive, high-CBD strains are difficult to access.

Most cannabis plants have tiny amounts of CBDA, although some varieties are bred to have balanced CBDA and THCA levels. However, hemp plants usually have high CBDA content, while THCA is present in trace amounts.

How to Consume CBDA

With the CBD market proliferating, there is a large selection of CBD-rich products, including CBD extract. Most CBDA enthusiasts prefer to eat and drink raw plants directly. CBDA cannot be smoked raw because the cannabinoid acid would be converted to CBD.

Cannabis leaves can be sliced and used to garnish salads or made into juices and smoothies like any other leafy green rich in nutrients. You can add CBDA to your diet through tinctures, cold sauces, or lightly steamed leaves.

Flower buds rich in CBDA can make tea by simply putting them in a cup and steeping them. The hot water would not cause decarboxylation but infuse the cannabinoid into the drink.

Patients with more severe conditions prefer to blend or juice the fresh cannabis buds because they have the most significant quantities of CBDA. However, anyone can enjoy the benefits of this cannabinoid.

Just like other herbs and vegetables, raw cannabis leaves and flowers can be kept in the refrigerator. To ensure they remain crispy and provide the best results, you can wrap them in a kitchen cloth.

Will CBDA Get You High?

Just like CBD, CBDA is not intoxicating, which means it will not get you high. While cannabinoids like THC and CBD interact with the CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBDA works differently by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzymes. This COX-2 inhibitor’s abilities mean that it can potentially be used to provide relief from pain and inflammation.

It has also been seen that CBDA causes a more intense activation of 5-HT1A serotonin receptors than CBD. These serotonin receptors affect several physiological functions, including intestinal motility, mood regulation, nausea, and vomiting. CBDA’s affinity for the serotonin receptors also holds great promise in the fight against depression.

CBDA is now being seen as a safe and effective alternative to certain medications and even CBD. So, those who use CBD products such as CBD oil can switch to CBDA products to enjoy similar health benefits.

Possible Side Effects of CBDA

There are a few side effects associated with the use of CBDA. These are usually caused by using the cannabinoid in large doses or very frequently, and they include:

• Drowsiness
• Mild mood changes
• Dry mouth
• Lightheadedness
• Low blood pressure

Because CBDA is not as active as CBD in the body, most of these side effects are mild. But if any side effect becomes persistent or bothersome, you should consult your doctor.

There are several medications, ranging from antihistamines to antidepressants, that could potentially interact with CBDA. To be safe, consult your pharmacist or physician before using CBDA with any medication.

Strains High in CBDA

When they are still raw, some cannabis strains are high in CBDA, but once they undergo decarboxylation, they become high in activated CBD. THC is not present in raw cannabis. Instead, it contains tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA), the acidic form. Before decarboxylation, THCA cannot cause a high.

Therefore, cannabis enthusiasts can eat and drink food from raw THC strains without experiencing any mind-altering effects. However, cannabis juice or smoothies can provide some positive effects, such as helping people with depression and anxiety.

Some of the most popular cannabis strains high in CBDA include:

• Canna-Tsu
• Charlotte’s Web
• Pennywise
• Steven Hawking Kush
• Harlequin
• Ringo’s Gift
• ACDC
• Harle-Tsu
• Cannatonic
• Sour Tsunami
• Cherry Wine
• Hawaiian Haze
• Suzy Q
• Sweet and Sour Widow
• Remedy
• Sour Space Candy
• Northern Lights

Is CBDA Legal?

In the United States, the 2018 Farm Bill made industrial hemp production legal. Due to this, there are several CBD products on the market. However, the law states that these CBD products must contain no more than 0.3% THC by weight.

Because CBDA does not cause a high, it is legal in almost all states. In states that do not allow the sale of THC, CBDA products must not contain any THC.

Where to find the best CBDa Products?

CBDa is a great way to treat everyday aches and pains and can be used for several other medical reasons and will only continue to skyrocket. Like most shopping, knowing who you’re buying from and how reputable they are is essential. You don’t want to take shortcuts, especially with something you plan to ingest or put in your body.

When it comes to reputable and reliable brands that sell cannabis products like Flying Monkey, there is no better place than Delta 8 resellers. For all of your cannabis needs, Delta 8 resellers have hundreds of respectable brand names and products that are ideal for you. Choose from hundreds of products to help with anxiety, including pens, cartridges, flowers, CBD products, and more. You can also sign up for a wholesale account to place online orders.

Find everything you need at the most affordable prices and if you’re still skeptical, talk to a customer service representative that will answer your questions. Purchase a good CBD edible or CBD gummies, and you will find relief in no time.

Conclusion

Although CBDA is derived from the cannabis plant, it does not get you high like THC. While you might feel less anxious and more relaxed after consuming a CBDA product, you won’t feel euphoric.

Since preclinical and clinical research suggests that CBDA might help treat several medical conditions, it has begun attracting the attention of CBD enthusiasts.

CBDA products are available in several forms, but users should ensure they only buy from reputable manufacturers and distributors. Check for a label that shows that third-party testing was carried out. If the brand you want to buy does not have this label, the product may not be of high quality.