SCIENCE
The Healing Pathways and Properties of CBDa B Y K AT H L E E N B R A D L E Y, PA - C
CBDa, or cannabidiolic acid, is the cannabinoid precursor to the more commonly known compound cannabidiol, or CBD. CBDa is a truly remarkable cannabinoid given its ability to exert therapeutic effects at low doses. CBDa has been shown to be a potent neuroprotectant, antidepressant, anti-anxiety, antiinflammatory, and anti-nausea agent. Due to the surge in popularity of CBD, CBDa has taken a back seat; the majority of the studies use rodent models at this time,
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and research on CBDa is still in its infancy. However, we can still extrapolate a few potential areas where CBDa can be used therapeutically in humans. Here, we will discuss CBDa’s unique pharmacological properties, potential applications, and current research. CBDa occurs naturally in the cannabis and hemp plant as a raw, unheated cannabinoid. When CBDa is heated or exposed to sunlight, it undergoes a
