What is THCV?
Tetrahydrocannabivarin, or THCV, is very similar to the cannabinoid responsible for the psycoactive effect of cannabis,THC. The chemical structure of THC and THCV is nearly identical, its the process of how they are created that is slightly different. The cannabis plant makes most cannabinoids, like THC, CBD, and CBC, out of CBG-A. CBGV-A appears in the plant much more rarely, and forms similar cannabinoids, except they only have 3 carbon tails (c3), instead of the more common 5 carbon tail (c5). These 3 carbon tailed cannabinoids are referred to as ‘varins’, such that the c3 version of THC (THC-c5) is named Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THC-c3)
Cannabis Science
From Steephill Labs- Pineapple Purps, a very rare, high THCV strain of marijuana
THCV stems from CBGVA, which has two less molecules than CBGA. After the CBGVA is created, the process is the same for THC and THCV. CBGVA is broken down to tetrahydrocannabivarin carboxylic acid (THCVA) by the THCV synthase. At that point, THCVA can be decarboxylated to create THCV. THVA is more strongly psychoactive than THC, but only has about half the duration of psychoactive effects than THC. THCV is also a protagonist of THC, modifying the effects of THC. The energetic effect of THCV is more evident than THC.
The Effects Of THCV
In Israel, where a great amount of cannabis research is done, they have found that THCV reduces or even blocks panic attacks. THCV can be highly effective in relieving the symptoms of PTSD and mental disorders involving anxiety or stress. THCV doesn’t appear to suppress emotions, but does have an effect on the emotions accosiated with Fight or Flight response. THCV and THC both attach to the CB1 receptor, but produce a much different effect in the brain. THCV has been associated with a psychadelic, clear-headed effect. It can cause the effects of THC to be much faster than usual but they also end more quickly with the presence of THCV.
THCV is anorectic- it reduces appetite, resulting in lower food consumption, leading to weight loss.
THCV has been shown to be beneficial in motor control conditions including Parkinson’s. THCV has demonstrated a reduction of brain lesions associated with Parkinson’s as well.
THCV can also be effectively used in osteoporosis and similar bone ailment as it stimulates bone cell growth. The idea of using THCV in the micro gravity of space, to combat the loss of bone mass has been suggested.
THCV has a strong anorectic effect. If a patient is already having difficulty eating, THCVs appetite suppression can be a negative side effect.
Source: Steephill Lab
