As the cannabis industry continues to grow, so does interest in its lesser-known cannabinoids. Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is one such cannabinoid that has begun to gain attention in recent years. Derived from cannabis, THCV is a non-psychoactive compound that offers a variety of potential benefits.
What is THCV?
There are over 100 cannabinoids found in the Cannabis sativa plant, including tetrahydrocannabivarin, or THCV. Essentially a minor cannabinoid, THCV is present in lower amounts than the other major cannabinoids, including CBD and THC.
THCV is primarily present in Sativa-dominant marijuana strains, with the highest concentrations consistently occurring as a result of cultivation techniques. THCV differs from THC in that it includes a 3-carbon molecular group instead of the 5-carbon molecular group. Thus far, few studies have been done on THCV, so scientists are still trying to determine exactly what it can do.
Does THCV get you high?
Unlike any other cannabinoid, THCV has extraordinary capabilities that allow it to alter its behavior depending on how much is consumed. This indicates that it interacts with the endocannabinoid system differently at higher and lower dosages.
THCV binds to the CB1 receptor and functions as an antagonist, preventing the intoxicating effects of THC while still providing therapeutic advantages. However, at high doses, THCV modifies its activity and interacts with the CB1 receptor, resulting in therapeutic benefits while functioning as an agonist to produce some psychotropic effects that are more intense but shorter in duration than THC.
What are the benefits of THCV?
Decreased appetite: Some researchers think that THCV can block the CB1 receptor. The CB1 receptor is well known to stimulate appetite. So, if THCV blocks this receptor, it could reduce appetite.
Panic attack relief: THCV has been found to help with the reduction or even prevention of panic attacks, suggesting that it may be very beneficial in the treatment of some mental illnesses characterized by anxiety or stress. THCV doesn’t seem to suppress emotions but does affect a human’s panic feelings associated with the fight or flight response.
Cognitive function: It appears that THCV is neuroprotective, implying it may help protect the brain from damage. This is crucial because it shows THCV has the potential to treat neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.
Increased energy: THCV is often known as the “race car” or “sports car” cannabinoid because it is associated with feelings of euphoria that encourage ambition and focus.
Diabetes management: THCV may help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes.
THCV dosage
There is no such thing as a “right” serving size of THCV. No known THCV dose works for everyone. Because of variations in genetics, body composition, and tolerance, your ideal THCV serving might be different from another person’s.
Start with a lower dosage (5mg) and wait 60 minutes to see how the substance affects you to determine the correct amount of THCV for you. You may gradually increase your dose until you discover the perfect quantity of THCV for you.
Can you legally buy THCV in the U.S.?
The Farm Bill of 2018 means that THCV is not a prohibited substance on the federal level as long as it comes from industrial hemp instead of marijuana. The Farm Bill keeps hemp-derived THCV products legal as long as they contain 0.3% delta-9 THC or less.
What forms are available?
THCV is found in full-spectrum hemp and cannabis-derived products, such as oils, waxes, and edibles. Gummies are seemingly the most popular and widely available.
How can people access THCV
THCV has fast established itself as one of the most sought-after cannabinoids on the market, thanks to its distinctive effects and potentially powerful benefits. Yet, THCV products are still hard to come by.
However, many alternative supplement retailers that carry CBD oil or delta-8 products will likely have some. Look online and search for a reputable seller or stop in a cannabis product distributor in your area for options.
What are the risks of THCV?
There is still much to learn about the potential risks associated with THCV. More research is needed to determine the long-term effects of this cannabinoid. Some early findings suggest that THCV may have the potential to cause anxiety and panic attacks at high doses. Additionally, because THCV interacts with the CB1 receptor in a different way than other cannabinoids, it is possible that it could cause unforeseen side effects. As always, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional before using any substance, especially if you have a history of mental illness.
THCV offers a number of potential benefits. Due to its reported benefits, THCV is an exciting compound for those interested in the medical applications of cannabis.
