Cannabidiolic Acid, or CBDA, is the natural, unheated precursor to CBD. It’s found in raw hemp and cannabis plants and converts into CBD when exposed to heat through a process called decarboxylation. While CBD is more widely known, CBDA is gaining attention for its own distinct properties and the way it interacts with the body.
 

Early research suggests that CBDA may influence the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor — a pathway connected to mood, stress response, and nausea. Because of this, scientists have been studying CBDA in areas related to emotional balance, digestion, and overall wellness, though much of the current research comes from animal or preclinical studies and more human data is needed.
 

A publication in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research explored CBDA’s activity in animal models, noting its strong interaction with serotonin-related pathways. Other early studies have examined CBDA in the context of inflammation and general comfort, though results remain preliminary and ongoing.
 

Because CBDA is sensitive to heat, it’s most often found in raw tinctures, capsules, and topicals where it can maintain its original acidic form. Many people explore CBDA as part of a full- or broad-spectrum wellness routine, especially when looking for a cannabinoid with a different profile than traditional CBD.