What does science say – and why this extract deserves so much attention

Autoimmune diseases affect millions of people worldwide. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis all share one common thread: a dysregulated immune system that attacks the body. Despite significant advances in conventional medicine, many people continue to seek complementary, gentler ways to better manage inflammation, pain, and fatigue.

This is precisely where interest in full-spectrum CBDa oil is growing.

At CBD & Herb, we've been working with CBD Spain oils for years, developed by Peter Vermeul – founder, researcher, and one of the first European pioneers to fully focus on the therapeutic potential of CBDa (cannabidiol acid) . We compile his research on our science page. This article provides an accessible introduction.

What is CBDa – and why is it different from CBD?

CBDa is the natural, acidic form of CBD found in the raw hemp plant. CBDa is only converted into CBD through heating (decarboxylation).
While CBD is now widely known, CBDa remains under the radar for many – even though this molecule is scientifically very interesting.

Important to know:

• CBDa is not psychoactive

• It works through different and complementary routes than CBD

• In full-spectrum extracts, the natural coherence of plant substances remains intact

It is precisely this combination that makes CBDa-rich extracts unique.

CBDa and autoimmune diseases: what do we know so far?

The honest answer: human clinical research is still in its infancy . There are no large-scale randomized trials (yet) specifically with CBDa in autoimmune patients.
But… the preclinical and mechanistic evidence is remarkably strong and consistent.

Inflammation inhibition via COX-2

In laboratory studies, CBDa has been shown to be a selective COX-2 inhibitor —similar to traditional anti-inflammatories, but potentially with less impact on the stomach and intestines. COX-2 plays a key role in pain and inflammation, precisely where autoimmune diseases spiral out of control.

Regulation of pain and stimuli

CBDa influences so-called TRP receptors , involved in pain perception and inflammatory stimuli. By modulating these receptors, the nervous system can, as it were, "calm down" – something many people recognize as a reduction in pain, stiffness, or burning sensations.

Influence on immune cells and cytokines

In animal models of multiple sclerosis, CBDa showed a clear reduction in IL-17 , a cytokine known to trigger autoimmune reactions. A reduction in nitric oxide and neuroinflammation was also observed. This suggests an immunomodulatory effect , not blunt suppression but subtle adjustment.

Practical experiences: where science and people meet

In addition to laboratory data, there are numerous practical experiences .
From people with rheumatism or lupus who experience relief from using raw cannabis extracts, to skin applications for psoriasis that reduce redness, itching and pain.

Peter Vermeul himself also describes in his work how external application of full-spectrum CBDa extract in lupus patients resulted in deep relaxation and pain relief within a short time – literally giving the body space to recover.

Anecdotes are not evidence, but they are often the first step towards science .

The Importance of Full Spectrum: The Entourage Effect

An essential point within CBD Spain's research is the full-spectrum principle .
CBDa never works alone. In a good extract, it works in conjunction with:

• other cannabinoid acids (such as CBGa and THCa)

• terpenes

• flavonoids

• sterols

This natural synergy—the so-called entourage effect —influences multiple inflammatory pathways simultaneously. This is precisely what makes full-spectrum CBDa oil so attractive for complex, systemic conditions such as autoimmune diseases.

Safety and interactions: knowledge is essential

CBDa is not a drug, but it is biologically active .
Therefore, caution is advised when combining with:

• immunosuppressants

• corticosteroids

• NSAIDs

• certain antidepressants or pain medications

CBDa can affect liver enzymes (such as CYP3A4), which can alter medication levels. Therefore, guidance and transparency with your doctor or therapist are crucial – a principle we always emphasize at CBD & Herb.

Why we share this knowledge

At CBD & Herb we believe that true health starts with understanding .
Not with claims, but with substantiated information. That's why we collect all the research and analyses from Peter Vermeul – the scientific brain behind CBD Spain – on our website.

This blog is an introduction.
For those who really want to understand why CBDa is considered the gold standard within cannabinoids , we cordially invite you to read further on our science page .

👉 Here you can find the full article including sources, mechanisms and legal context.

• CBDa in Autoimmune Diseases - pdf NL
• CBDa-for Autoimmune diseases - pdf EN

Finally

Full-spectrum CBDa oil is not a miracle cure.
But the combination of scientific insight, practical experience and respect for the plant as a whole makes it one of the most promising natural extracts available today – especially for inflammation-driven conditions.

And that is exactly why we continue to learn, research and share.

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CBD & Herb
In collaboration with CBD Spain | Peter Vermeul