You know about CBD and THC, but what about THCV? Tetrahydrocannabivarin, or THCV, is a lesser-known hemp-derived phytocannabinoid with many potential benefits for wellness. Let’s take a closer look at what makes THCV unique and how it can promote health for consumers.
What is THCV?
THCV is a phytocannabinoid, just like CBD and THC. It’s found naturally in some cannabis sativa plants, most notably hemp. What sets it apart from other cannabinoids is its ability to activate different receptors in the endocannabinoid system, including both CB1 and CB2 receptors.
The analog of THCV is similar to THC in chemical structure, but it doesn’t have the same psychoactive effects as THC. This offers a significant advantage to those who may want to experience the potential benefits of the compound without feeling high.
Now let’s dive into what makes THCV so special and how it can promote health and wellness.
Potential Benefits of THCV
THCV offers a range of potential benefits for wellness, from managing symptoms of anxiety and depression to reducing inflammation. Here’s a little more information about some of the potential benefits of THCV:
Anxiety and Depression Relief
Major depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the U.S. The National Institute of Health reports that 21 million adults have experienced at least one major depressive episode. That’s over 8% of the country’s adult population. Many people with depression also experience symptoms of anxiety.
THCV may help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in some users. In a study from 2015, researchers found the non-intoxicating compound may reduce stress and improve mood in rodents. While they need more reliable data to understand the same effects in humans, this study suggests THCV may offer relief from symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Researchers have compared the results of THCV as on par with clozapine, a typical antipsychotic medication. The effects occurred with the 5-HT1A receptor activation, which regulates serotonin levels in the brain. With further studies, the compound may be viable for those seeking relief from mental health issues without the side effects of traditional medications.
Weight Management
Many people in the U.S. are looking to lose a little weight, especially after the holidays. Additionally, over 40% of the adult population is obese. Obesity is a serious condition that can lead to many life-altering and even ending conditions. While exercise, diet, and other lifestyle changes are necessary, plant-based wellness products may provide the extra push necessary to maintain a healthy weight.
Another unique difference is that studies show THCV is hypophagic, meaning it can help reduce appetite. So, yes, while THC increases the appetite, THCV has the potential to do the opposite. This is an excellent choice for those seeking natural appetite control. Scientists are studying the potential use of the non-intoxicating compound as a complementary therapy for individuals with diabetes. With fewer cravings, managing diabetes and blood sugar levels is easier.
Pain Relief
Studies suggest THCV may reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. When tested in a laboratory, it has the potential to activate Cannabinoid Receptor 2 (CB2) receptors. Research on mice suggests THCV can help reduce inflammation and inflammatory pain, likely by activating both the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and/or CB2 receptors. This benefit may be beneficial for anyone experiencing joint and muscle discomfort.
When reviewing the anti-inflammatory potential of THCV, it’s vital to mention recent discussions about hemp compounds and COVID-19. A study in the Nature Journal found low doses of THCV helped reduce lung inflammation because of COVID-19. It also noticed a connection between pro-inflammatory activity in macrophages and worsening symptoms in people with severe cases of the virus.
To put it plainly, these findings suggest the phytocannabinoid may help reduce the inflammation associated with COVID-19, but not without risks. More research needs to be done to understand the full potential of the compound for this purpose, but it’s an intriguing development worth noting.
Neuroprotective Effects
THCV may also offer neuroprotective properties, which can help reduce neuron damage and slow the progression of certain neurological diseases. A study in the Neurobiology of Disease journal found THCV may help reduce neuron damage and damage from oxidative stress.
This is an intriguing research area as scientists continue exploring the connection between hemp compounds and neurological diseases. We need more studies to understand the full effects of THCV in this context, but the current research is encouraging.
Stimulate Bone growth
Finally, a study from 2007 found that THCV is an effective bone growth stimulant. The research showed that the cannabinoid helped increase bone formation and growth compared to the control group. These findings are incredibly exciting for those struggling with conditions like osteoporosis or other bone loss issues. Scientists must do more research in this area to understand the full effects of THCV, but the potential is clear.
Is THCV 100% Non-Psychoactive?
Here’s where it gets tricky. The psychoactive element of THCV isn’t as potent as THC, but it’s important to remember that this may vary from person to person. In low doses, the compound is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t make you feel high. However, in large quantities, many people report feeling a mild psychoactive effect.
How is this possible? Well, different receptors in the endocannabinoid system interact with cannabinoids differently. For example, THCV binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, while THC only binds to CB1 receptors. This means that the effects of THCV and THC may be different, even if they have a similar chemical structure.
Is THCV legal?
Because of its relationship to THC, many people wonder if the latest popular phytocannabinoid from hemp is legal in the United States and other countries. The answer is yes! As long as they derive the THCV product from hemp, it should be legal in all 50 states. The Farm Bill of 2018 clarified that hemp-derived products, including CBD and THCV, are legal as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC by weight.
Is it Easy to Find THCV?
THCV is a minor cannabinoid that isn’t as common as THC or CBD. You can still find hemp-derived THCV products online and in stores. Akira Botanicals offers a wide range of hemp-derived products, including THCV, to help you get the compound you’re looking for. Our small-batch processing made from farm-direct hemp flowers ensures you get the best possible product every time. Research to ensure you’re purchasing a genuine, high-quality product.
How Can I Use THCV?
THCV is most commonly found as an isolate or concentrate. Because it’s a minor cannabinoid, you won’t find it in large quantities like CBD and THC products. Concentrates are easy to use and offer a great way to explore the effects of the phytocannabinoid. THCV live resin, wax, or other dabs are a potent and fast-acting way to use the compound.
THCV is an exciting compound with potential anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and bone growth stimulant properties, but there’s still much more to learn about. We need more research to understand the full effects of THCV, but the potential is clear. We’re excited to see where this research takes us in the future!