Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a lesser-known compound found in the cannabis plant that offers certain benefits and effects that make it unique, even when compared to more famous cannabis compounds like THC and CBD.
This guide takes an in-depth look at THCV and the compound’s effects, potential benefits, and whether it can help you lose weight. We’ll also include a list of cannabis strains with high concentrations of THCV.
What are Cannabinoids, and How Many Are There?
The Cannabis plant has more than 480 active compounds. 80 to 100 of these chemical entities are cannabinoids, which are unique to the cannabis plant. These cannabinoids interact with receptors in various parts of the central nervous system and help regulate cell communication, resulting in various psychological and physiological effects.
Most people are familiar with cannabinoids such as THC (Δ9–tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Other cannabinoids with healing potential or health benefits include:
- CBN (Cannabinol)
- CBG (Cannabigerol)
- CBC (Cannabichromene)
- THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
- THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid)
Each cannabinoid has a unique interaction with the receptors of the body’s endocannabinoid system. For example, CBN and THC are psychoactive, while CBC and CBD have anti-inflammatory properties.
A few of the many cannabinoids found in cannabis.
What is THCV?
THCV or tetrahydrocannabivarin is a secondary phytocannabinoid that is produced in the trichomes of the cannabis plant. THCV, also known as the “diet weed” because of its potential to regulate blood sugar and suppress appetite, was discovered in the 1970s. It is most abundant in Sativa strains of the cannabis plant, particularly in African landrace strains.
THCV’s interaction with the body can alleviate psychological conditions such as panic disorder, depression, and anxiety. The compound is also neuroprotective and may reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease.
Tetrahydrocannabivarin interacts with various chemical receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Endocannabinoid receptors include CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system and CB2 receptors in the immune system. Through these interactions, the cannabinoid can alter many different bodily functions, including the up-regulation of energy metabolism.
THCV and THC have similar molecular structures, but instead of a pentyl (3 carbon) group, THCV has a propyl (5 carbon) group. At low doses, THCV is a neutral CB1 antagonist, which means that it can inhibit THC’s effects. However, at high doses, THCV acts as a CB1 agonist and produces psychoactive effects similar to THC.
Various types of THCV products are available, including hemp products without THC and cannabis products containing THC. Tetrahydrocannabivarin can be found in Indica and Sativa strains, cannabis extracts and concentrates, edibles, and oils.
Can THCV Help You Lose Weight?
One of the most well-known effects of smoking weed is appetite stimulation, or “the munchies.” THCV, on the other hand, is a neutral CB1 activist which limits the effects of THC. Unlike THC, THCV can suppress your appetite if ingested at the optimal dosage.
THCV also regulates your blood sugar, making it easier to lower insulin resistance and reach your desired weight. The combination of appetite moderation and blood glucose regulation potentially goes a long way toward helping you lose weight.
Keep in mind that this is not a miracle cure for losing weight and it’s important to maintain an active lifestyle and follow a healthy diet to achieve your weight loss goals.
Effects of THCV
Improve Blood Sugar Regulation
THCV can regulate your blood sugar by lowering your blood glucose levels and increasing insulin production by the pancreas. These attributes make it a potential treatment for insulin resistance, and consumption may prevent Type II diabetes. Dosage is important.
Promote Bone Growth
THCV’s interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system increases bone cell growth and is a possible treatment for conditions that weakens the skeletal structure. Some patients who suffer from conditions such as osteoporosis or rickets use THCV with great success.
Anticonvulsant Attributes
According to research, THCV has therapeutic effects to alleviate the symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases, including brain lesions, motor control, and tremors. THCV also has an anticonvulsant effect and may reduce the symptoms of disorders such as epilepsy.
Reduce Anxiety
Recent studies have shown that THCV interacts with the 5-HT1A receptor, resulting in antipsychotic effects without suppressing emotion. The receptor interaction is significant, as it indicates the possibility of treating PTSD and the cognitive symptoms of people with schizophrenia.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
THCV blocks CB1 receptors but activates CB2 receptors, resulting in anti-inflammatory effects. If you suffer from neck pain, lower back pain, pulled muscles, or any other type of inflammatory pain, using a product containing THCV can help.
High -THCV Strains
If you want to derive THCV’s health and weight loss benefits, select a cannabis strain with an above-average THCV concentration.
Doug’s Varin
Doug’s Varin is a Sativa strain that cultivators specifically created to contain high concentrations of THCV. This strain’s cannabinoid profile will suppress your appetite and induce a clear-headed, energizing high that tapers off quickly.
Doug’s Varin has earthy and citrus-like aromas with similar flavours. You can use this strain for the treatment of various psychological conditions, including PTSD and panic disorder.
Pineapple Purps
Pineapple Purps is a Sativa strain with uncertain origins that emits pleasant pineapple, citrus, and berry flavours. The strain’s capitate-stalked trichomes contain relatively high levels of THC, giving you a euphoric and cerebral high, eliminating fatigue and sluggishness.
The THCV level of Pineapple Purps is also high, and you can smoke this weed to reduce inflammation, depression, and Parkinson’s tremors.
Durban Poison
Durban Poison is a pure Sativa strain with a THC level that ranges from 17 – 26%, and it can be highly potent. A high concentration of the terpene myrcene contributes to a clear, cerebral high that improves your focus and creativity.
Like most other South African landrace strains, Durban Poison has a high THCV concentration. Medicinal uses of the strain include the treatment of ailments such as muscle pain and headaches. You can also use Durban Poison to reduce your appetite.
Power Plant
Power Plant, a peppery and spicy bud, contains high levels of the most common cannabinoids, including THC, CBD, and THCV. The strain is predominantly Sativa, and it induces an energizing euphoria to lift your spirits and improve your mood.
The THCV and terpenoid profile of Power Plant reduces conditions such as depression, chronic stress, and inflammation. Power Plant has a high potency, and if you are new to cannabis use, the strain may be overwhelming.
Willie Nelson
The Willie Nelson strain is 60% Sativa and contains THC levels upwards of 20%. With enjoyable pine and lemon aromas and an uplifting high that improves creativity and focus, this strain is a favourite among many smokers.
The strain also has a high THCV concentration, and you can use it to suppress your appetite and treat chronic muscle pain.
Red Congolese
Red Congolese is a 100% Sativa with attributes that include a substantial and cerebral euphoria, an energy boost, and a significant mood improvement. The trichomes on the Red Congolese buds also have a high THCV content.
Effects of the Red Congolese strain include the alleviation of psychological conditions such as stress, depression, PTSD, and anxiety. You can also smoke this bud to reduce pain and fatigue.
Red Congolese.
Jack the Ripper
Jack the Ripper is a THCV-rich Sativa strain with pleasant citrus, lemon, and pine flavours.
The strain provides a clear-headed high to give you a late-afternoon boost, and it offers significant anti-inflammatory benefits. Unlike other strains with high THCV levels, Jack the Ripper is not the best strain for reducing your appetite.
Durban Cheese
Durban Cheese is a hybrid with the Cheese and Durban Poison strains as parents. The strain has both Indica and Sativa attributes and induces a high that is uplifting, relaxing, and mood-enhancing. The Durban Cheese strain helps with several physiological and psychological problems, including anxiety, nausea, and arthritis pain.
Skunk #1
Skunk #1 is a hybrid strain with Indica-dominant characteristics. The strain has a relatively strong aroma that some may find unpleasant. However, due to its high THCV content, this strain is an effective treatment for mood and sleep disorders.
As an Indica, Skunk #1 has a sedative effect, and you should only use it at the end of the day. You can also smoke this bud to lower your appetite when you get hungry.
Conclusion
In the past, THC and CBD were the cannabinoids that enjoyed the most attention. However, as we realize their potential, minor cannabinoids such as THCV are getting more and more shine.
One of THCV’s most promising aspects is its ability to act as an appetite suppressant, making it ideal for weight loss. Get the health benefits that THCV offers by browsing the selections from Budmail.
