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Exploring CBDA: A Natural Ally for Women's Health

BY: DR. JACK

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Green Compass. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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Interest in natural approaches to health and wellness is reaching new heights worldwide. Today’s consumers are more informed than ever, with the ability to research and explore options right at their fingertips. And in this evolving space, cannabinoids are taking center stage for good reason.

While CBD and THC have long dominated the conversation, their lesser-known precursor, cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), is beginning to shine as a promising solution. Part of the broader family of hemp compounds, CBDA is gaining attention—especially among women seeking support through life’s hormonal shifts. From mood swings and hot flashes to joint discomfort, this gentle yet powerful cannabinoid may be the relief many have been searching for. Let’s explore why CBDA deserves a closer look.

What Is CBDA and Why Does It Matter?

CBDA, or cannabidiolic acid, is often called the “raw” version of CBD. In scientific terms, it’s the acidic form found naturally in fresh hemp or cannabis plants before heat transforms it into CBD (cannabidiol). Like CBD, CBDA is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t cause a high. But when it comes to bioavailability—your body’s ability to absorb and use a compound—CBDA stands out. Research suggests that CBDA is absorbed more efficiently than CBD, which means you may experience noticeable benefits at lower doses. In other words, CBDA delivers more impact with less.

CBDA’s Unique Mechanisms in the Body

One of the most studied mechanisms of CBDA is its ability to inhibit COX-2 enzymes, which are the same enzymes targeted by common over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. This makes CBDA a natural option for addressing inflammation and discomfort.

CBDA also interacts with serotonin receptors, which play a key role in regulating mood, pain perception, and nausea. Scientists are continuing to uncover how CBDA works through additional pathways, including TRP channels (linked to inflammation and pain) and RhoA receptors (with potential implications in cancer research) [6]. While studies are ongoing, early findings point to CBDA as one of the most promising cannabinoids to watch. [8]

Why CBDA May Support Women’s Wellness

Hormonal fluctuations across a woman’s life, from menstrual cycles to pregnancy and menopause, often bring challenges like anxiety, cramps, hot flashes, joint discomfort, and fatigue. By supporting the endocannabinoid system (ECS), CBDA helps promote balance, or homeostasis. This system influences mood, sleep, inflammation, and pain response, which is why CBDA is gaining recognition as a powerful ally for women seeking natural, non-psychoactive wellness solutions.

CBDA's Potential in Perimenopause: Navigating the Transition

Perimenopause, the unpredictable stage leading up to menopause, can bring a wide range of disruptive symptoms as estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate. During this time, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) also undergoes changes, with declining endocannabinoid levels potentially worsening discomfort. While direct clinical studies on CBDA are still emerging, its unique properties mirror the relief often reported from raw cannabis products, which are naturally rich in this compound.

One of the standout benefits of CBDA is its impact on mood and anxiety support. Research suggests CBDA has a much stronger affinity for serotonin receptors, up to 1,000 times greater than CBD in some studies, making it a compelling option for easing emotional volatility during perimenopause.[1]

Another common challenge is sleep disturbance, with an estimated 47% to 60% of women reporting issues like night sweats, insomnia, and disrupted sleep cycles during this transition.[3] CBDA’s calming interaction with the ECS may help promote more restful nights. Preclinical data on related cannabinoids, such as CBD and whole-plant cannabis, also supports this connection, showing potential to improve sleep quality through system modulation.[4]

I can say that from my personal experience of what I was witnessing in my clinic, this is true. The struggles that women faced during perimenopause were obviously disruptive and increasingly I witnessed patients turning to cannabis and finding symptomatic relief. While more studies are needed, the early science combined with real-world use makes CBDA an exciting option for supporting women through this transition.

CBDA and Menopause: Supporting Long-Term Wellness

Once menopause sets in, defined as 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle, the focus often shifts to managing ongoing symptoms and supporting long-term wellness. At this stage, women face increased risks such as bone loss, joint discomfort, and changes in metabolic and gut health. Without proper nutrition and regular exercise, bone density can decline rapidly, raising the risk of arthritis, stress fractures, and overall frailty. Supporting gut health is equally important, and here the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a key role in maintaining balance and regulation.

CBDA may offer meaningful support during menopause by addressing common concerns such as joint pain, inflammation, bone health, and even libido impacted by hormonal decline. Estrogen loss often leads to increased aches and stiffness, but CBDA’s ability to inhibit COX-2 enzymes provides targeted anti-inflammatory relief.

Bone health is another critical concern. In a preclinical study using estrogen-deficient mice (a model for postmenopause), CBD was shown to improve bone density and reduce inflammation. Given CBDA’s stronger bioavailability and overlapping mechanisms of action through the ECS, it is reasonable to suggest that these bone-protective benefits may extend—and even amplify—when using CBDA.[7]

As research continues to expand, CBDA stands out as a non-psychoactive, natural option for women seeking long-term wellness during and after menopause.

The Science So Far Is Promising

Direct human trials on CBDA are limited at this time. However, there are good observational data and CBD parallels. We have discussed some of these studies already but let us go over some good observational data as well.

A 2023 study in BMJ with 1,761 participants aimed at menopause-related symptoms in women aged 35 and over showed that their main reason for taking cannabis was to help manage sleep issues (65%), anxiety (45%) and muscle/joint achiness (33%). 74% of cannabis users found it helpful for their symptoms! [9]
Another study looking at surveys of 258 participants in menopause or perimenopause reveal that they turned to cannabis frequently for sleep (67%), mood/anxiety (46%), and increased libido (30%). 78% of participants used cannabis specifically to address menopause-related symptoms.[2]

It is important to note that if one is on prescription medications that it is wise to consult a healthcare provider before trying CBDA. My personal experience clinically did not see any interactions as long as one took it as suggested on the product label.

Final Thoughts: How CBDA Supports Women Through Life’s Transitions

CBDA represents an exciting frontier in women's health, offering a natural, non-intoxicating way to tackle the ups and downs of perimenopause and menopause. From mood support, better sleep, and pain relief, its potential is backed by emerging science and real-world experiences. What’s important is that we keep the conversation going to let people know that there are gentler alternatives to consider for various issues that arise during this time of change.

Thanks for reading and be well!