What is CBDa and Will It Work for Me?

If you are like most people, you have probably tried various things in search of pain management. Taking over-the-counter painkillers long-term can be harmful to your health, and more potent pain relievers like opioids are addictive and can be dangerous.

Studies have shown that cannabidiol—or CBD—is safe and effective. People often misunderstand this naturally occurring chemical compound in cannabis, but its use is becoming more mainstream, and doctors increasingly recommend it. Additionally, new research shows that retaining the raw form of the plant, cannabidiolic acid (CBDa) may be even better.

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You should always consult with your doctor about taking supplements, but some basic facts about CBD can help guide you in your wellness journey.

Cyclist Chris Carmichael trains and recovers with Planetarie’s CBDa-infused Softgel supplements and Muscle Rub

WHAT IS CBD, EXACTLY?

Don’t confuse CBD with psychoactive marijuana. CBD will not make you high. At most, you might feel a little bit calmer, and your discomfort may start to subside.

CBD is derived from the hemp plant, a species of cannabis that contains very little of the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol—THC—the chemical that causes the mind-altering effects of cannabis. Hemp and CBD are both legal federally, while marijuana remains illegal at the federal level.

HOW DOES CBD WORK?

We have a system in our bodies that ensures we are in balance, and our endocannabinoid system (ECS) can modulate this balance. Studies show that CBD brings us back into balance.

Researchers are still hard at work determining CBD’s benefits and how it interacts with our bodies. In general, CBD works with various receptors in our brains, blocking certain signals—including pain—and helping our brains better use chemicals that naturally occur in our bodies. CBDa takes it a step further by leveraging the raw hemp plant in its purest form and exhibiting 18 times higher levels in the blood than CBD alone.

IS CBD SAFE?

Perhaps the best part of CBD is its effectiveness without the nasty side effects that can come with other types of long-term pain management. Some people experience mild side effects like dry mouth or nausea when using CBD, but these effects are largely manageable through dosage adjustments, and are typically not seen in the raw form CBDa.

It’s essential to get the correct dose for your weight, habits, and past experience with marijuana. The form of CBD you use also makes a difference. CBDa, for example, has a linear effect in the body that ensures a better prediction of outcomes. Again, confer with your doctor and a knowledgeable CBD expert who you trust. Use high-quality products, and use them as directed.

Stacy Cason, former nurse practitioner and CEO & founder of CBDa company, Planetarie, recommends starting with a low dose, taken daily. After several days to a week, assess how you feel, and gradually add to your dosage. Topical CBDa products can provide more targeted relief.

WHERE CAN I FIND CBD?

With CBD now legal in all 50 states, you’ve probably seen all kinds of products that contain CBD. Candies and chocolates, drinks, creams, and tinctures come with a small amount of CBD in them, and you can easily purchase them from your neighborhood store.

But, especially for people trying to address a serious medical condition with CBD, do your research and make sure you’re getting high-quality CBD products that are concentrated enough to make a difference. Many products available on store shelves have low concentrations or are poor quality CBD unlikely to help significantly. Look for products that disclose the concentration of CBD or CBDa and provide dosing information, and be sure to ask the product supplier where their hemp is grown and for the Certificate of Analysis. Products grown in Colorado are required to test for potency and purity, and a reputable company will provide their COAs.

Planetarie offers several delivery methods for its CBDa, including softgels, sublingual infusions, drink additives, topical salves and a muscle rub.

If you’re looking for a plant-based solution, look for a product like Planetarie’s CBDa, which is shown in studies to also be a selective COX-2 inhibitor and which is more potent and bioavailable than regular CBD. Products like Planetarie’s soft gels, rubs and salves, infusions, and drink additives provide highly concentrated CBDa. With some research and high-quality products, you can feel better and get back to your active lifestyle in no time.