THCV Effects
What is THCV effects? Tetrahydrocannabivarin (abbreviated Δ9-THCV or just THCV) is a psychoactive cannabinoid most often found in Sativa-dominant strains of the Cannabis sativa plant such as Durban Poison or Jack Herer.
THCV is known to produce alertness, appetite suppression, and a more motivated, energized feeling of euphoria. For this reason, THCV products are often recommended for daytime use or medical cannabis patients who want less of the traditional cannabis side effects.
Ready to learn everything you need to know about THCV effects? In this post we’ll cover:
- All of the basics about the phytocannabinoid tetrahydrocannabivarian (THCV)
- Its role in the cannabis plant, and how it interacts with cannabinoid receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS)
- The unique health benefits and different effects of THCV
- Where to buy THCV and other cannabis products
And much more. Read on to learn more about this interesting and little-known plant cannabinoid!
The Science of THCV Effects: The Basics
Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a compound derived from the cannabis plant. As you might guess based on its name, its pharmacology is very similar to that of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) as well as analogs such as delta-8 THC.
How long it takes for effects of THCV to hit you and how intense they are depends in part on how large your dose is and what form it takes. For example, edibles take longer to feel the effects from, but they also last longer and feel more intense.
The main difference between THC and THCV is a lack of psychoactive effects.
In fact, at least one study found that low doses of THCV taken intravenously cause the compound to act as an agonist in the nervous system, reducing the classic effects of regular THC such as paranoia and dry eyes. This is principally because unlike THC, THCV has a lower affinity for the CB1 receptor, which produces more mental effects. Instead, THCV is more interactive with the CB2 receptor, which is responsible for more pain and appetite control.
Health Benefits of THCV Effects
THCV’s unique properties and health benefits make it different from the more common cannabinoids, such as THC and cannabidiol (CBD) and minor cannabinoids as well, such as cannabigerol (CBG) or cannabinol (CBN).
Another important property centers on appetite control—earning it the nickname “diet weed.” But does it really work for appetite suppression or weight loss? For people struggling with obesity or diabetes the answer may be yes.
In rodent studies, THCV increases satiety, decreases appetite, and up-regulates energy metabolism. THCV is also more useful for blood sugar/glucose metabolism, glycemic control, and energy regulation than is THC. Research has also demonstrated that THCV reduced fasting plasma glucose concentrations among people with type 2 diabetes compared to a placebo-controlled group.
[Learn more about THCV, diabetes, and obesity at DOI 10.1186/s42238-020-0016-7]
Research indicates that THCV may contribute to bone growth, and may therefore have therapeutic effects in treating bone-degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis.
According to research in animal models, THCV may have a neuroprotective effect, potentially relieving the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. It may also play a role in the treatment of epilepsy.
Of course, THC is better for people struggling with cachexia and related issues. If this is your health struggle, the munchies are definitely your friend, and you might want to avoid high doses of THCV.
Where to Buy THCV Products
This is one of those products that is almost always best bought online. This is because as a specialty item, it can be hard to find.
THCV occurs in very small amounts in the cannabis plant in nature, so most of the THCV products you find for sale are made by isolating the compound in a lab. This labor-intensive process takes time and skill to get right.
Always look for certificates of analysis (COAs) and results from third party lab analysis.
Final Thoughts on THCV Effects
We are just beginning to learn about THCV’s effects, what they are, and how we can take advantage of them. But for now, who isn’t curious about diet weed?!
Disclaimer: Remember, cannabis products are only for people 21 years of age and older. Nothing in this post is medical advice or can take the place of a visit with a healthcare professional.
Written by Diet Smoke Staff Writers
The staff writers for Diet Smoke have been researching and writing about premium hemp-derived THC and CBD products for more than 3 years. The team has a keen understanding of the topic, remain current on all FDA and industry news, and use their expertise to generate engaging and informative content to help educate consumers on Diet Smoke’s products. Each article is fact-checked and includes sources to scientific data to ensure readers receive the most up-to-date and accurate information possible.
Reviewed By Colby Wohlleb
Colby Wohlleb, editor of Diet Smoke, reviews and approves all content before releasing it for posting on the Diet Smoke website. As a tireless advocate for the benefits of premium hemp-derived THC and CBD products, Colby ensures that all content is accurate, engaging, and informative. He also works directly with a trusted source to ensure the purity of the products we sell and performs rigorous lab testing to ensure that Diet Smoke’s products are of the highest quality and safety standards.