Cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) is rapidly gaining traction in the medical field as a promising compound derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. It’s known for its therapeutic properties and has sparked a growing interest within the Australian healthcare landscape.
The compound has the potential to revolutionise treatment options for a plethora of health conditions. The positive aspect is that these health benefits come without the associated psychoactive effects.
The exploration of CBDA in Australia is more than just a scientific endeavour, but rather a clinical journey into its full potential for patient care.
Are you curious about how this compound could be integrated into traditional treatment protocols? You are not alone, with more healthcare professionals nationwide keen to learn more about the promising outcomes of the ongoing trials. The compound has the potential to expand the Australian healthcare industry as we know it through its unique attributes.
Join us as we learn more about the possible clinical uses of CBDA. Our aim is not only to highlight the current clinical uses of CBDA, but also the extensive list of possible patient benefits.
What is CBDA?
Also known as cannabidiolic acid, CBDA is reported to have therapeutic properties. As research continues, more properties are being discovered all the time.
Studies done on mice and rats show that CBDA is effective at lower doses compared to its decarboxylated (heated) form CBD.¹ It exhibits anti-emetic, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and antidepressant benefits.
CBDA is the acidic precursor compound to CBD. The chemical makeup of the two are almost identical except for the carboxyl group, which is removed during decarboxylation—ageing and heating process.
The CBDA compound is extracted from cannabis plants through various methods.² Using deep eutectic solvents (DESs) like acetone, ethanol, and methanol is the most common approach.³
The extraction process contains the following steps:
- Using a 1:10 solid:liquid ratio of DESs at 60°C for 45–60 minutes can produce high CBDA yields.
- The extracted material is then decarboxylated by heating it to 140°C for 30 minutes to achieve the CBD compound. Prolonged exposure to heat could cause CBD degradation.
- A process called chromatography is then used to isolate and purify the CBDA extract. This process is optimised to produce maximum CBDA yield and minimise degradation.
Clinical Applications of CBDA
CBDA research is ongoing to identify the potential therapeutic applications of the compound. While more research is needed, trials are being conducted in the following areas:
Chronic Pain and Inflammation
Animal and human studies have found that CBD, and CBDA, could reduce inflammation and help to control chronic pain.⁴ It was especially found to be effective in reducing the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
The FDA has approved a CBD product called Epidiolex for treating seizures resulting from the following conditions:⁴
- Lennox-Gastaut syndrome
- Dravet syndrome
- Tuberous sclerosis complex
Though studies are focused on the effects of the CBD compound, it’s believed that CBDA has the same anticonvulsant benefits.
Anxiety and Depression
Ongoing studies and trials are exploring the potential for CBD to reduce the symptoms of anxiety.⁵ The study suggests that CBD-rich treatments could have a highly beneficial impact on patients with moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Other ongoing CBDA clinical trial areas include:
- Anorexia
- Dementia
- Sleep disorders
- Cancer
- Ulcerative colitis
- Dyslipidemia
- Multiple sclerosis
- Schizophrenia
- ADHD
- Autism
- PTSD
Since exploration into CBDA uses for these conditions are still in the preliminary stages, there is no clear evidence to share yet. While CBDA shows significant promise for various health conditions, more trials must be completed to determine the safety, efficacy, and correct doses for specific conditions.
Continued clinical studies and trials in Australia are essential to determining the safety and effectiveness of medicinal cannabis for various conditions. To support this ongoing research, the NSW Government allocated over AUD9 million as funding for clinical trials.⁶
The intent of this funding is to assess the efficacy of medicinal cannabis in the treatment of:⁶
- Epilepsy in children
- Improving appetite in palliative care patients
- Reducing chronic pain for patients with spinal cord injuries
The clinical trials in Australia are focused on exploring new and improved treatment options related to medicinal cannabis. The regulatory framework ensures that all trials apply ethical standards and prioritise patient safety6.
Patients who participate in clinical trials gain early access to new treatments while helping the research team to gather vital data. Doctors can then make evidence-based decisions regarding the appropriate care for their patients.
The country’s dedication to high-quality research aims to gather cricual data about the safety, effectiveness, and potential interactions of medicinal cannabis products. These trials could accelerate the development of cannabis treatments for those who need it.
Benefits of CBDA for Patients
As a precursor to CBD, the CBDA benefits lean toward the same potential therapeutic applications as the former. Let’s look at some of the most popular benefits to consider.
Anti-Inflammatory and Pain-Relieving Properties
One of the most notable CBDA benefits lies in its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Studies suggest that CBDA can effectively reduce inflammation and control pain, particularly in conditions such as arthritis4.
It’s believed that CBDA targets key inflammatory pathways to help alleviate symptoms at their source instead of masking them.
These properties put CBDA therapy as a potential alternative or complementary option for pain relief without side effects.⁷
Nausea Relief
CBDA is a potential therapeutic agent in treating nausea and vomiting. This is especially effective for patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy, where nausea is a prevalent side effect.
Not only is it effective in providing relief, but it does so without the psychoactive effects associated with other cannabinoids like THC.
Neurological Benefits
Preliminary research shows that CBDA provides the same benefits for patients with neurological disorders as CBD.⁷ While the anticonvulsant properties may help in managing seizures, it also presents a non-psychoactive therapy option with less side-effects.
Mental Health Applications
More studies are needed to understand its full capabilities, early indications suggest that CBDA can help regulate mood and reduce anxiety. ⁵ It has the potential to offer a natural alternative to conventional pharmaceuticals that often come with heavier side effects.
Antifungal and Antibacterial Properties
The health benefits of CBDA extend into its antifungal and antibacterial properties, which could have a significant impact on wound and infection care. ⁷ It’s believed to prevent infection and promote faster healing than traditional treatments.
After exploring the promising benefits of CBDA, it's important to also consider the potential side effects. Like any therapeutic option, understanding both the advantages and the risks is crucial for making informed decisions about treatment.
Some possible adverse effects include:
- In high doses, CBDA is believed to result in possible liver injury.⁸
- CBD competes for the liver enzymes that break down certain medications. It interacts with these medications, amplifying them.
- CBDA could cause drowsiness and sleepiness, especially when combined with medications with the same effect.⁹
- Dry mouth and eyes are common side effects of CBD and THC.¹⁰ CBDA is believed to present the same side effects, especially in high doses.
Most of the research available focuses on CBD, and more is needed to fully understand the safety profile of CBDA.
Future Prospects of CBDA in Australian Healthcare
At PlantEd, our commitment is to equip healthcare professionals with the latest insights into cannabis-based treatments. A notable area of current and future interest within Australian healthcare is the role of CBDA in clinical practice.
Ongoing clinical trials and evolving regulations suggest that it may soon play a larger role in medical treatments across the country. Here are some future prospects of CBDA in Australian healthcare and the hurdles it must overcome.
Therapeutic Potential
There is a significant amount of interest around the possible therapeutic properties of CBDA. Preclinical studies show the potential for anti-inflammatory effects as well as other benefits.¹¹
Ongoing research is exploring the potential for CBDA’s efficacy in treating conditions like autism spectrum disorder and epilepsy.¹²
Regulatory Landscape
In Australia, any cannabinoid products must be classified as therapeutic goods with the Therapeutic Good Administration (TGA). All products must be approved by the TGA before marketing can start.
No CBDA products have been approved yet, but with ongoing trials, this may change soon13. The TGA has a rigorous evaluation process that ensures only safe and effective products reach the market for patients. They should align with international regulatory standards like those used in the EU for CBD novel foods.¹³
Challenges and Outlook
As could be expected, integrating CBDA with mainstream healthcare in Australia comes with challenges. Ongoing trials are crucial for obtaining more data in establishing its safety and efficacy for different conditions.¹³
If clinical trials keep yielding positive results and secure regulatory approval, CBDA might emerge as a promising therapeutic option. It’s a particularly promising option for conditions like certain psychiatric and oncology conditions as well as treatment-resistant epilepsy.
The future of CBDA in Australian healthcare looks promising, its success depends heavily on the continued research. CBDA may become a cornerstone of medical cannabis innovation. It offers new hope and improved outcomes for patients across a spectrum of conditions.
Conclusion
The potential of the CBDA compound extends beyond its current applications. It’s poised to make a significant impact on medical science and patient care. Not only has it presented powerful anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, but also noteworthy potential for psychiatric and oncology patients.
Ongoing clinical trials are crucial in unveiling the full potential of CBDA’s therapeutic benefits. The research also has the potential to transform it into a cornerstone of medicinal cannabis innovation in Australia.
The data collected in studies are showing promising outcomes as effective treatment alternatives. As global healthcare trends reflect a deepening understanding of cannabis-derived compounds in modern medicine, the healthcare industry in Australia are aligning with it.
With continued studies into CBDA, patients and healthcare professionals alike look forward to the alternative treatment opportunities. Full integration into Australian healthcare still poses risks, however.
The TGA ensures product quality and consistency through a rigorous approval process. This regulatory landscape is committed to patient safety and product efficacy while setting a high standard for future CBDA-based treatments.
PlantEd provides a wealth of resources and learning opportunities for healthcare professionals who want to stay ahead of this exciting field. Do you want to expand your understanding of CBDA treatment options? Maybe you want to stay up-to-date on the latest research and find out how to incorporate these treatments into your practice?
At PlantEd we have you covered with the best educational resources. Our courses are designed to bridge the gap between traditional healthcare and innovative treatment options. We also provide the knowledge and skills you need to navigate this evolving landscape with confidence.
Join our community of like-minded individuals for peer learning and networking opportunities with professionals who’re dedicated to pioneering the use of medicinal cannabis in healthcare. Industry experts are ready to share valuable tips and insights.
You’ll gain access to cutting-edge information and expert-led training. With ongoing research, the landscape for CBDA-based products is always changing. These resources are the tools you need to stay ahead of the game.
The future of CBDA in Australian healthcare looks bright, with opportunities for groundbreaking treatments and enhanced patient outcomes. As exploration continues, we learn more about this versatile compound. It holds undeniable promise to fill gaps in current treatment options
Join us at PlantEd to be part of this exciting journey into the future of healthcare, where innovation meets tradition. Discover more, learn more, and contribute more with PlantEd. Together, we shape the future of healthcare.
References
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- Gould, W. R. (n.d.). The Potential Side Effects of CBD. Verywell Mind. Retrieved June 29, 2023, from https://www.verywellmind.com/potential-side-effects-of-cbd-5072819
- Henderson, L., Kotsiriloa, V., Cairns, E. A., Ramachandran, A., Pecck, C. C., & McGregor, I. S. (2021, October). Medicinal Cannabis in the Treatment of Chronic Pain. Australian Journal of General Practice. https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2021/october/medicinal-cannabis
- Kubala, J. (2018, February 26). 6 Health Benefits of CBD Oil — and a Look at Side Effects. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits
- Lazarjani, M. P., Young, O., Kebede, L., & Seyfoddin, A. (2021). Processing and extraction methods of medicinal cannabis: a narrative review. Journal of Cannabis Research, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00087-9
- Lewandowska, A., & Graczyk, M. (2022). Ten reasons to consider cannabinoids in everyday clinical practice. Palliative Medicine in Practice, 16(3), 167–182. https://doi.org/10.5603/PMPI.2022.0013
- Lewis, M., & Flood, J. (2021). The transition of cannabis into the mainstream of Australian healthcare: framings in professional medical publications. Journal of Cannabis Research, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00105-w
- MacPhail, S. L., Bedoya-Perez, M. A., Cohen, R., Kotsirilos, V., McGregor, I. S., & Cairns, E. A. (2022, May 10). Medicinal Cannabis Prescribing in Australia: An Analysis of Trends Over the First Five Years. Frontiers. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.885655/full
- Morales-Brown, P. (2022, November 9). CBD gummies: Side effects, benefits, and how to take. Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/negative-side-effects-of-cbd-gummies
- Overview | Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research and Innovation. (n.d.). Www.medicinalcannabis.nsw.gov.au. https://www.medicinalcannabis.nsw.gov.au/clinical-trials/overview
- Tiago, F. J., Paiva, A., Matias, A. A., & Duarte, A. R. C. (2022). Extraction of Bioactive Compounds From Cannabis sativa L. Flowers and/or Leaves Using Deep Eutectic Solvents. Frontiers in Nutrition, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2022.892314
- Umpierrez, L. S., Costa, P. A., Michelutti, E. A., Baracz, S. J., Sauer, M., Turner, A. J., Everett, N. A., Arnold, J. C., McGregor, I. S., & Cornish, J. L. (2022). Cannabidiol but not cannabidiolic acid reduces behavioural sensitisation to methamphetamine in rats, at pharmacologically effective doses. Psychopharmacology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-022-06119-3
- WebMD. (2019). Cannabidiol (Cbd): Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warning. Webmd.com. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1439/cannabidiol-cbd