The Healing Spectrum: How CBDA and CBGA Are Used Therapeutically

CBDa and CBGa are natural compounds found in raw hemp, and many people are now turning their attention to them for their promising wellness benefits. From immune support to inflammation relief and even potential roles in cancer research, these two cannabinoids are quickly becoming part of the modern therapeutic conversation.

Below, you’ll find an easy-to-understand breakdown of what these compounds are, how they work, and how they may support your well-being.

What Are CBDa and CBGa?

CBDa (cannabidiolic acid) and CBGa (cannabigerolic acid) are the “raw” versions of CBD and CBG. They come straight from fresh hemp that hasn't been heated or processed. When hemp is heated, these acidic forms convert into the cannabinoids most people already know, like CBD.

Think of CBGa as the “precursor cannabinoid.” It’s the first major compound the hemp plant produces, and from it, several other cannabinoids are formed, including CBDa.

What makes CBDa and CBGa special is that when they’re kept in their natural, unheated state, they may offer different and sometimes stronger therapeutic effects than their converted forms.

Why Do People Use CBDa and CBGa?

Research into CBDa and CBGa is still growing, but early findings show that they may offer a range of health benefits, especially in three key areas:

1. Immune Support

One of the most widely discussed discoveries is that CBDa and CBGa can bind to the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This may help block the virus from entering human cells. While this research is still early, it suggests that these compounds may help support the immune system and provide an extra layer of defence.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Both CBDa and CBGa can block enzymes that cause inflammation. That means they may help soothe aches, swelling, and general inflammatory discomfort without the side effects often associated with standard anti-inflammatory drugs.

3. Mental Wellness

Early studies suggest that CBDa may be even more bioavailable than CBD. In simple terms, the body absorbs it more easily. Because of this, CBDa may offer calming, anti-anxiety, and even antidepressant-like effects at smaller doses.

CBGa also shows potential in supporting mood regulation, though research is still in its early stages.

How CBDa and CBGa Work in the Body

Connecting with the Endocannabinoid System

CBDa and CBGa interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps maintain balance in important functions like mood, sleep, appetite, immunity, and inflammation.

By influencing the ECS, these raw cannabinoids can help regulate these systems in a natural, plant-based way.

Supporting the Immune Response

These compounds may help calm overactive immune cells and reduce long-term inflammation. This is especially important in chronic conditions where the immune system can accidentally work against the body instead of for it.

Their ability to interact with viral proteins also makes them promising candidates for future antiviral research.

Therapeutic Uses Being Studied

Cancer Research

CBDa: Early findings show it may slow the spread of aggressive breast cancer cells.
CBGa: Studies suggest it may prevent colon cancer cells from multiplying and may help reduce tumour growth.

These results are still preliminary, but they highlight exciting potential for future oncology treatments.

Seizure Support

CBDa may help reduce seizure frequency and may even be more effective than CBD in certain cases. This makes it a promising option for people with epilepsy or other seizure-related conditions. Contain a medical professional for more information.

Metabolic and Heart Health

Scientists are studying how CBDa and CBGa influence metabolism. CBGa interacts with PPAR receptors, which are involved in inflammation and metabolic function. This may one day help with conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular issues.

How to Use CBDa and CBGa

Because these compounds are becoming more popular, you can now find them in several easy-to-use forms.

Oil Drops

Simple to dose and easy to add to your daily routine. Many people mix CBDa and CBGa together for immune support, while others prefer taking them separately at first to see how each one affects them.

True Hemp Science offers this type of product: the LUMINA G53, which is a raw blend of CBGa distilled oil and CBDa extracted oil in a 5:3 ratio. LUMINA G53 can be used as a daytime tincture to support a clear mind and to increase productivity throughout the day.

Capsules

Capsules are popular for their convenience. They offer:

Long-lasting effects
Consistent dosing
A discreet way to take CBDA daily

Topicals and Gummies

Topicals, such as muscle rubs, work well for localised pain or inflammation.
Edibles such as gummies are great if you want a tasty, simple way to get a consistent daily dose.

Pure CBDa Crystals

For those who want a very concentrated product, CBDa isolate is available as a fine powder. It contains only CBDa and no other cannabinoids or terpenes. You can mix it with oils or add it to homemade edibles. Because it hasn’t been heated, it stays in its raw form and keeps its full potency.

Quality Matters: What to Look For

To ensure you’re using a safe, effective product, keep an eye out for:

1. Full-Spectrum Extracts

Full-spectrum extract products retain CBDa, CBGa, minor cannabinoids, and natural plant compounds. This combination may enhance benefits through the “entourage effect,” where cannabinoids work better together.

2. Third-Party Lab Testing

A trustworthy brand will always provide lab results showing:

Potency
Cannabinoid content
Absence of heavy metals, pesticides, and contaminants

This is key for safety and transparency.

The Bottom Line

CBDa and CBGa are emerging stars in the world of natural wellness. Their ability to support immune health, reduce inflammation, and potentially assist with more serious conditions has made them a focus of exciting new research. While more studies are needed, early results are very promising.

Whether you choose oils, capsules, gummies, or pure crystals, incorporating these raw cannabinoids into your routine may offer a gentle, plant-powered way to support your overall health.

True Hemp Science Named One of Austin Fit Magazine’s Best of 2025 - — Thank You, Everyone!

by C L on Dec 02 2025

We’re excited and deeply grateful to share that True Hemp Science has been recognized once again by Austin Fit Magazine, this time as part of their Best of 2025 – Lifestyle awards in the Best CBD Shop / Best CBD in Austin category

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Why Trace THC Matters: The True Hemp Science Perspective

by C L on Nov 28 2025

Why Trace THC Matters: The True Hemp Science Perspective In the ever-expanding world of hemp wellness, one question comes up often: Does CBD really need THC to work? At True Hemp Science, our answer is simple: yes, it does! While THC is often misunderstood or associated only with its psychoactive effects, small controlled amounts of THC, what we call trace THC, are a natural and essential part of an effective hemp extract. Without it, you are not getting the full potential of the plant. The Synergy of the Whole Plant Hemp is more than just CBD. It is a complex plant containing over 100 cannabinoids, along with terpenes, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds which naturally fit into receptors in the human body. Together, these elements create what scientists call the entourage effect, a synergistic interaction that enhances the body’s ability to absorb and utilise cannabinoids. THC plays a key role in this synergy. Even in trace amounts (typically between 0.13% and 0.3%, or a bare minimum of tenth of a milligram per dose), THC helps activate the body’s cannabinoid receptors, particularly the CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors are part of the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate mood, sleep, immune response, and stress levels. When THC binds with these receptors, it acts like a key turning a lock, helping the body respond more effectively to CBD and other cannabinoids. In our experience, CBD without THC can feel flat or incomplete, while a full-spectrum extract containing natural trace amounts of THC produces a deeper, more balanced effect. Why We Avoid Isolates At True Hemp Science, we have never believed in isolates, products made in a lab not found in nature. Isolates remove all the other compounds that make the cannabis plant special. When you strip away THC, THCa, terpenes, and minor cannabinoids, you also strip away much of the plant’s complexity and potential. We have experimented with various THC-removal methods, always non-chemical, and found while the resulting products were clean and compliant, they lacked the subtle benefits we expect from a true full-spectrum extract. Even at higher doses, 200 mg of pure CBD, for example, the results did not compare to a 60 mg tincture containing just 0.5 mg (0.25%) THC. The takeaway is more CBD does not necessarily mean better results. The balance between cannabinoids matters more than the sheer amount of any one compound. The Role of THCa: Focus and Uplift In addition to tracing THC, we also appreciate the natural presence of THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), the raw non-psychoactive precursor of THC. THCa typically exists at about a third to half of the total THC content in a product. While it does not produce any intoxicating effects, THCa offers a slightly uplifting and focusing quality that many people find ideal for daytime use. It is often described as promoting mental clarity and gentle energy, making it an excellent complement to the calming nature of CBD. Depending on the extraction method (cryo-ethonal or sub-critical CO2), small amounts of THCa can survive the process and remain in the finished product. We view that as a good thing, a sign the extract has retained more of its natural complexity and power. What Trace Really Means When we talk about trace THC, we are referring to levels that are both safe and legally compliant. In the United States, hemp products must contain less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. The amounts we work with at True Hemp Science are typically between 0.13% and 0.3%; in other words, they are well within the legal limit. At these levels, THC is non-intoxicating, meaning you will not experience any “high.” What you will notice, however, is a richer and more balanced effect. Many customers describe it as a deeper calm, better sleep, or a sense of overall well-being that pure CBD alone cannot deliver. Extraction and Integrity The way a hemp extract is made can dramatically affect its final composition. We take pride in using natural extraction methods that preserve as much of the plant’s original structure as possible. Our goal is not to remove THC, but to maintain the right ratio of cannabinoids for optimal benefit. By respecting the plant’s natural chemistry, we create tinctures and oils that feel alive, dynamic, balanced, and effective. We are constantly testing and fine-tuning to hit that perfect target range on our tinctures and water soluble tonics: enough THC to activate receptors and support the entourage effect, but never enough to produce any psychoactive sensation. It is a delicate balance, and it is one of the reasons our products stand apart. Why Trace THC Makes a Difference Think of CBD as a symphony, with THC as one of the instruments helping complete the sound. Without it, the music loses its depth. Research continues to show full-spectrum CBD products with trace THC outperform CBD isolates in most wellness applications, from easing tension and supporting mood to promoting better rest. These benefits come not from THC alone, but from how it interacts with every other compound in the plant. At True Hemp Science, we believe in letting nature lead. The hemp plant evolved with THC for a reason, and our mission is to honour that natural design while keeping everything safe, balanced, and effective. The Bottom Line THC is not the enemy of CBD; it is its ally. In trace, natural amounts, it opens the door for CBD and other cannabinoids to do their best work. That is why every True Hemp Science formula contains a carefully measured balance of cannabinoids, including small amounts of THC and THCa. We believe this combination delivers the most authentic, potent, and well-rounded hemp experience possible, one that supports body, mind, and spirit in perfect harmony.

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