If you pay attention to cannabis and hemp-related news — you’ve probably noticed the rise in THCV-based products.
From eyebrow-raising names like “diet weed” and “weederall” — it’s essential that you understand the facts surrounding the newly popularized cannabinoid THCV.
Read along as we discuss key aspects regarding THCV. From effects to safety, we’ll detail everything you need to know about THCV.
What is THCV?
THCV, also known as tetrahydrocannabivarin, is a psychoactive cannabinoid found in sativa-dominant cannabis strains.
Similar to THC, THCV produces euphoric and perspective-altering effects. However, THCV is found in smaller quantities than THC in cannabis flowers.
Additionally, the THCV molecule combusts at a higher temperature point than THC. Therefore, consumers must achieve 428F to unlock the effects that THCV has to offer.
What are the Effects of THCV?
Now, let’s talk about the most important aspect of THCV — effects.
Consuming THCV is known to produce:
Euphoria
Increased awareness and motivation
Decreased appetite
As you can see — there’s a clear reason when THCV has been dubbed as “weederall” and “diet-weed.”
Unlike THC, THCV suppresses the appetite, which helps individuals curb their diet. However, it’s best to consult a doctor before using THCV-based products to lose weight.
Additionally, THCV acts as a stimulant, which is why it’s known to promote awareness and increase motivation.
What are the Medical Benefits of THCV?
One of the most important aspects of THCV is its medical potential.
Thus far, researchers have found a wide variety of therapeutic effects that are beneficial to both medical marijuana patients and recreational enthusiasts.
Appetite-suppressant
Reduce effects of diabetes
Reduce anxiety and depression
Assist patients with neurological disorders (Alzheimer’s)
Reduce pain
Below, we’ll discuss each medical benefit in brief detail.
Appetite Suppression
Unlike THC, THCV decreases the appetite.
However, patients who experience cachexia or anorexia must avoid THCV. Overall, THCV offers a natural way for individuals to curb their munchies. In any case — it’s best to consult with a doctor before using THCV to suppress the appetite.
Reduce Diabetes
According to research, THCV regulates blood sugar levels and decreases insulin resistance.
As such, these key findings reduce the overall effect of diabetes. Therefore, THCV can be useful for overweight patients who are battling diabetes.
Reduce Anxiety and Depression
Like THC, THCV stimulates the central nervous system to produce increased serotonin levels.
From PTSD to generalized depression, THCV is known to assist individuals without suppressing emotion.
Assist Neurological Disorders
Thus far, THCV is known to assist Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease patients.
The therapeutic effects of THCV stem from the cannabinoid’s ability to act as a neuroprotectant. In other words, THCV may help protect the brain from the onset of neurodegeneration.
Reduce Pain
One of the key effects of THCV is that it may reduce pain and inflammation.
Studies show that THCV intake binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors to inhibit pain-causing inflammation. Therefore, patients with inflammation-based pain can harness THCV to reduce localized inflammation and pain.
What Cannabis Strains Contain THCV?
Overall, THCV is not a primary cannabinoid.
Instead, THCV is a minor cannabinoid that’s found in specific marijuana strains, such as:
Power Plant
Willie Nelson
Skunk #1
Jack The Ripper
And More
Most notably, strains that contain THCV are predominantly landrace sativas and sativa-dominant varieties. Overall, it’s believed that THCV is produced in sativa-dominant strains due to long light exposure in equatorial countries.
Is THCV Safe and Legal?
Overall, THCV is a natural cannabinoid that occurs in sativa-dominant cannabis plants.
THCV does produce psychoactive effects similar to THC, making it necessary to consume it in a safe environment. Additionally, THCV is federally legal as long as the product does not contain more than 0.3% THC.
Should You Consume THCV?
Overall, it’s your choice if you want to experience the effects of THCV.
Currently, THCV is legal, making it relatively easy to purchase. However, THCV-based studies are preliminary and have yet to move to clinical studies.
Furthermore, you must buy lab-tested products to ensure they contain THCV. Due to the sudden rush to push THCV products to market — many do not include the advertised amount of THCV.
Ultimately, THCV is a minor cannabinoid that produces psychoactive effects. Therefore, you must consume THCV-based products responsibly.
Lastly, if you decide to indulge in THCV-based products, always consult a doctor if you use THCV for any medical reason.