Cannabis research is ongoing. Scientists are constantly finding new cannabinoids that increase wellness. THCV is one of the newer ones on the market. But what does THCV do? THCV was discovered in 1970 by Dr. Edward Gill, who detected it in a tincture of cannabis BPC, a licensed medical cannabis product at the time. THCV, along with other hemp-derived cannabinoids, became popular after the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and hemp-derived products with 0.3% THC or less.
Since the bill’s passage, THCV has become more well-known. The compound provides light psychoactive effects when taken in very high doses. However, its therapeutic potential has made it popular among health and wellness advocates. It may offer various health benefits, such as reducing appetite, improving insulin sensitivity, promoting antipsychotic effects, and reducing anti-inflammatory pain. What does the science have to say about this? The THCV meaning extends beyond just another cannabinoid. Read on to learn more about THCV and its beneficial effects.
Editor’s Note and Disclaimer Regarding THCV:
Please note that we do not represent THCV as a medication or treatment for any condition. The information provided here is based on current scientific literature examining the potential therapeutic properties of THCV. The research includes studies conducted on various subjects, including healthy adult human volunteers and animal models. This information is intended solely for educational purposes.
We do not suggest or imply that THCV should replace or supplement any medications you may or may not be taking for mental or physical health conditions. If you have a medical condition, we strongly advise consulting a licensed healthcare provider for guidance on FDA-approved treatments. THCV is not a medication and has not been approved by the FDA.
What Is THCV?
Tetrahydrocannabivarin (Delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabivarin, THCV, or THCv) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in certain cannabis plants. It is one of the rare minor cannabinoids. However, abundant amounts of it occur in certain African Sativa strains.
THCV produces various wellness benefits and minimal psychoactive effects. The cannabinoid is mostly non-euphoric when taken in small doses (milligrams). But it can potentially become euphoric when overconsumed (grams). Many feel clear-headed with increased energy and focus after consuming small doses of THCV.
Although THCV has THC (Delta 9 THC, Delta 9, D9 THC, or D9) in its name, the two compounds have their share of differences. They have almost identical chemical structures. However, THCV has two fewer carbon atoms in its alkyl chain. The missing carbon atoms may not seem like a big difference, but it affects how each compound interacts with the body.
When THC enters the body, it interacts with the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors of the endocannabinoid system. The CB1 receptor controls mood, appetite, and other aspects of mental health, while the CB2 receptor regulates immunity and inflammatory pain.
THC binds to the CB1 receptors in your brain to produce euphoric effects. THCV, on the other hand, does not bind to these receptors; rather, it blocks them and prevents other cannabinoids, mainly THC, from binding to them. These effects were first reported in a 2015 study of healthy male human volunteers, where it was determined that THCV helped inhibit some of the known effects of THC.
THCV does not produce strong euphoric effects because it does not bind as tightly with the CB1 receptors. Although THCV does not bind to the CB1 receptors, it interacts with the CB2 receptors to produce various health benefits. Because the compound produces wellness benefits without the intoxicating effects, it may be more comparable to CBD (Cannabidiol).
What Are the THCV Benefits?
THC offers several potential therapeutic benefits, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. Current studies, however, suggest promising possibilities. Let’s examine four main benefits of THCV that have caught the attention of scientists, cannabis enthusiasts, and wellness advocates!
THCV May Reduce Appetite
Studies reveal that THCV may be an effective appetite suppressant. Unlike THC, which interacts with the CB1 receptor to enhance appetite (“the munchies”), THCV works as an appetite agonist. This means that it blocks feelings of food reward and hunger. Cannabis enthusiasts often refer to it as “diet weed.” Researchers need to conduct further studies to determine how effective THCV is at reducing appetite.
Study Shows THCV Ameliorates Insulin Sensitivity
People with poor insulin sensitivity have difficulty processing glucose. They are prone to weight gain and more likely to store fat, which puts them at risk of developing diabetes. A 2020 study of adult rats revealed that THCV can positively affect glycemic and lipid parameters and treat glucose intolerance. In plain English, THCV may potentially help improve blood sugar levels and may also treat issues with how the body processes sugar.
A separate parallel group pilot study revealed THCV could represent a new therapeutic agent for glycemic control. These studies expanded upon a 2013 study that used two mouse models to determine how THCv ameliorates insulin sensitivity. More studies are needed to back THCV’s effects on insulin and obesity.
THCV May Have Antipsychotic Effects
Psychosis typically stems from an overproduction of serotonin and dopamine in the brain. This leads to overcommunication between different regions of the brain and causes hallucinations, delusions, and other psychotic effects. THCV is similar to antipsychotic drugs in that it functions as a serotonin agonist. This means that THCV may reduce some symptoms of psychosis.
THCV May Have Anti-Inflammatory Effects
A recent study revealed that THCV may inhibit nitrite production in murine peritoneal macrophages. Nitrite is produced by inflammatory cells. THCV’s ability to inhibit its production may make it effective in reducing inflammation.
The compound has also been shown to reduce inflammatory cells in mouse models. These findings mean it may reduce inflammatory pain associated with chronic conditions.
How Does THCV Work and What Does THCV Do to the Body?
When THCV enters the body, it interacts with the endocannabinoid system or ECS. The ECS is a biological system of cell-signaling cannabinoid receptors that interact with neurotransmitters to produce various results. As previously mentioned, these receptors are categorized as CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are closely linked to food, appetite, and mental health, while CB2 receptors control immunity, inflammation, and other aspects of physical health.
Unlike THC, THCV does not have a strong binding affinity with the CB1 receptor. It even blocks some CB1 activities, such as the ability to increase appetite. It also works as a serotonin agonist and does not produce psychoactive effects.
However, it binds to the CB2 receptor to produce various benefits in the health and wellness space. As mentioned in the previous section, THCV positively affects glycemic and lipid parameters. It may decrease signs of psychotic behavior, reduce weight gain, and lower inflammation.
How Strong Is THCV?
THCV is not very strong, considering its lack of psychoactive effects. When compared to THC, THCV is not strong at all. However, you must still pay attention to dosage recommendations when using THCV.
There are no standard dose recommendations for THCV. However, research often shows that a 2.5mg dose is effective in producing results. Regardless, it is best to start slowly with THCV to determine how it will affect you.
If you are unsure what dose to take, you may seek out professional medical advice. Remember, THCV should not be used as a replacement for any medication or treatment you are currently taking. Consult a licensed healthcare professional before adding THCV to your health and wellness regimen.
How Can I Use THCV Products?
There are several ways you can consume THCV. Here are some THCV products available on the market today.
- Vapes. Vaping is a popular method of consuming THCV. It is discreet and convenient. Vape carts may contain THCV and other cannabinoids to provide an entourage effect.
- Edibles. THCV edibles can often be purchased in gummy form. They offer predosed convenience and a variety of fun flavors. Be aware that edibles may take a while to hit and tend to have potent effects. Go slow when consuming cannabis edibles.
- Tinctures. THCV oils or THCV tinctures offer sublingual delivery of THCV. You can measure doses for fast-hitting action. THCV effects typically wear off after a few hours. You can also add THCV oil to food or drink for a more versatile dosing experience.
- Flower. It is rare to find THCV flower. But you may find flower varieties with high levels of THCV. Strains include Blackberry, Malawi Gold, and Durban Poison. Flower can be added to joints, pipes, and bongs for optimal versatility.
The Keys to Buying High-Quality THCV
You will increase your chances of finding high-quality THCV and other cannabis products by purchasing from companies that use third-party lab testing. These companies will send their products to a third-party lab to assess their ingredients’ purity and potency. They will also post COAs (Certificates of Analysis) on their website so consumers can learn the test results.
It would be best if you also bought from brands that provide:
- Excellent Customer Reviews. A company with mostly positive customer reviews will likely provide excellent service.
- Quality Ingredients. The company you buy from should use high-quality cannabis and all-natural ingredients in their products.
- Money Back Guarantees. Companies offering money-back guarantees are more confident in their products and offer better customer service.
- Quality Packaging. Good packaging protects items from tampering, offers optimal aesthetics that are not attractive to children, and clearly lists product information.
THCV vs THC: What’s the Difference?
THCV differs from THC in its chemical structure. Compared to THC, THCV has two fewer carbon atoms in its alkyl chain. This affects its interactions with the CB1 receptor. As a result, THCV produces very little psychoactive effects when consumed in reasonable doses. It also blocks food reward where THC stimulates appetite.
The compound’s chemical structure also varies from that of other cannabinoids, producing varying results. Here are some to consider.
- CBD (Cannabidiol). CBD and THCV are non-euphoric. While some report experiencing psychoactive effects after using high doses of THCV, CBD has produced no such results. Like THCV, CBD may decrease appetite and reduce the body’s response to environmental stimuli. It may also address other wellness issues such as mood, appetite, digestion, mobility, and rest.
- THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid). Like CBD, THCA does not produce psychoactive effects. However, when heat is applied, it will convert into euphoria-inducing THC. Research shows that it also stimulates appetite and has strong neuroprotectant properties.
- CBN (Cannabinol). CBN is another non-psychoactive cannabinoid. It is known to produce relaxation and help with sleep.
- CBG (Cannabigerol). Also non-euphoric, CBG stands out for its ability to decrease inflammation. Its ability to increase appetite makes it a promising treatment for people experiencing reduced appetite due to cancer treatments and other medical conditions.
FAQ – What Does THCV Do?
Does THCV Help With Anxiety?
Although reduction of anxiety is not one of THCV’s main benefits, it can have this result in some people. Its ability to regulate serotonin and dopamine can produce a calming effect, especially in people prone to an overproduction of these chemicals. However, results vary depending on biological factors, environment, and other circumstances.
Is THCV an Anti-Inflammatory?
Yes, THCV has potential anti-inflammatory benefits. Although THCV has no strong bonding affinity with the CB1 receptor, it binds tightly with the CB2 receptor to reduce inflammation and related pain. It may be a promising treatment for people dealing with chronic pain issues. However, more research is needed before it can be established as an effective anti-inflammatory treatment.
Is Delta 8 the Same as THCV?
No, Delta 8 is not the same as THCV. Delta 8 is a type of THC cannabinoid that produces light psychoactive effects. Its chemical structure differs from THC and THCV because it has a double bond on its eighth carbon chain. Delta 8 is similar to THCV in that it may reduce the body’s response to external stimulus, provides anxiousness-relieving support, and has light mind-altering effects, albeit at much lower doses than THCV. However, Delta 8 increases appetite rather than reducing it. It is also not known to produce antipsychotic effects or address insulin sensitivity as studies show THCV might.
Is THCV Legal?
Yes, hemp-derived THCV is federally legal as long as products containing it do not exceed 0.3% Delta-9 THC. The Farm Bill of 2018 legalized hemp and all hemp-derived products containing 0.3% or less THC content. However, state laws can vary. Check the rules in your state to ensure you are using cannabis legally.
Final Thoughts – What Does THCV Do? [4 Promising Benefits From Recent Studies]
What does THCV do? Quite a lot! THCV is a lesser-known, rare cannabinoid that has been making waves in the cannabis community. The cannabis Sativa extract produces mild psychoactive effects when taken in extremely large amounts. However, it is mostly non-euphoric in regular doses (milligrams). Taking it will produce clear-headed focus and energizing sensations. THCV stands out for its numerous promising health benefits. According to current research, THCV can optimize glycemic and lipid parameters, decrease signs of psychotic behavior, promote weight loss, and reduce inflammation.
It’s important to note that THCV is not a medication, nor is it FDA-approved to be used as a replacement or augment any current medications or treatments for certain medical conditions and ailments. You can consume THCV in various forms, making it a versatile choice. To get all the benefits of THCV, it’s advisable to purchase it from a trusted provider. Choose a provider that uses lab testing. Look at factors like excellent customer reviews, quality packaging, natural ingredients, and purchase guarantees to ensure you shop with a trusted brand. While the full effects of THCV are still being explored, there’s promising potential on the horizon.
