CBDa Is Not a Drug — It's a Natural, Hemp-Derived Compound
Cannabinoids, such as CBD (cannabidiol) and its parent compound CBDa (cannabidiolic acid), are powerful wellness-supporting substances. Although these and other hemp-derived cannabinoids are becoming buzzwords in the wellness industry as they gain popularity, many people remain unclear about their classification. Are they drugs or something else?
The answer is no — CBDa and CBD are not drugs. Instead, they are naturally occurring substances found in hemp plants. They have a range of potential benefits that can be enjoyed without the risk of addiction or the intoxicating effects associated with marijuana and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
CBDa is an important precursor to CBD with major therapeutic potential. Scientists have uncovered its value in treating inflammation, anxiety, seizures, and even certain types of cancer. This lesser-known cannabinoid is now seen as the next frontier in hemp-derived therapy.
Continue reading as we outline the status of CBDa and CBD, why these natural substances are not drugs, and the potential benefits and safety of these compounds.
The legal status of CBDa and CBD
CBDa and its metabolite CBD may be misunderstood to be drugs because of their association with marijuana, which is a Schedule I substance according to the Drug Enforcement Administration of the United States. Substances in this class are believed to have a high potential for misuse and no accepted medical use.
Confusion often arises because marijuana and hemp are both species of cannabis. However, the two plants are drastically different in their cannabinoid potency, chemical composition, and legality.
Marijuana plants are cultivated to have high levels of THC, a phytocannabinoid known for its intoxicating effects. Industrial hemp, on the other hand, is cultivated to contain less than 0.3% THC and higher concentrations of CBD and CBDa — both non-intoxicating compounds that are legal in many countries worldwide. Following the Farm Bill of 2018, industrial hemp is no longer a controlled substance and its derivatives, such as CBDa and CBD, are legal to purchase and use. So considering CBD vs THC — both exist in cannabis plants, but hemp is rich in CBD while marijuana is high in THC.
Are CBDa and CBD classified as drugs?
CBDa and CBD are classified as phytocannabinoids, not drugs. They are hemp-derived substances that naturally interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) to help maintain homeostasis and promote overall health. Unlike drugs, CBDa and CBD work holistically to nourish the ECS, provide balance, and support wellness.
The World Health Organization has stated that “CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential,” and the stance of The European Medical Cannabis Association is that CBD is not a narcotic. This means that CBD and its precursor CBDa are not drugs but beneficial compounds with major therapeutic potential.
Is CBDa safe?
Yes, CBDa is safe to use. Like CBD, it doesn't cause mind-altering effects or intoxication, so you won't experience a change in mood or behavior and won't develop a dependence.
CBDa and CBD are generally well-tolerated and don't cause any unpleasant adverse effects. Unlike many pharmaceutical medications with a long list of potential side effects, these natural substances are gentle and work harmoniously with your body. So you can embrace them as part of your wellness routine without fear.
The potential benefits of CBDa
Although humans have evolved beside hemp, it's only in recent years that research has begun to uncover the potential therapeutic benefits of CBDa.
Early studies suggest that CBDa may help limit the spread of a specific type of breast cancer cell because of its characteristics as a selective Cox-2 inhibitor. Cyclooxygenase (Cox) 2 enzymes are involved in producing pro-inflammatory molecules and are increased in certain types of cancer.
Because CBDa acts as a COX-2-inhibitor, its potent anti-inflammatory action makes it a potential alternative to traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin. But unlike NSAIDs, it won't harm your digestive system as it doesn't also affect COX-1, the enzyme that helps keep the lining of the intestines healthy.
Researchers have also found that CBDa is valuable in reducing nausea and vomiting, meaning it can be beneficial in managing the symptoms of chemotherapy. Furthermore, CBDa doses of 1000 times less than CBD have the same effect.
CBDa is not a drug — it's a natural powerhouse
Nature provided us with phytocannabinoids for a reason — to help us better understand and heal our bodies. CBDa and CBD are powerful, non-intoxicating substances that you can use to nourish your body, mind, and spirit and support your wellness journey.
If you want to take advantage of nature's healing embrace, discover CBDa-rich hemp oil, a holistic approach to health and wellness.
