Forget Diet Weed, THCV Is a Rockstar Compound For Other Reasons

While I have been intrigued by the cannabinoid THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) for some time now, I was skeptical about the rumored benefits of “diet weed”. Being that I have Crohn’s disease, I usually use cannabis to stimulate my appetite, but I am also always looking for something that will help with energy and focus, so I decided to try a sample. And what I found was that this cannabinoid has benefits that have nothing to do with appetite.

As with any “new” psychoactive cannabinoid, there is very little data to support claims about THCV. Found in small amounts in certain broad-spectrum hemp or raw cannabis varieties, the benefits of THCV are difficult to parse in most available cannabis. But for higher THCV content, look to cultivars from Africa like Durban Poison, Girl Scout Cookies, and Jack the Ripper. 

“The chemical structure of both compounds THC and THCV look similar, but there is a difference,” Dr. Pepper Hernandez (ND, Ph.D.) told Heady Vermont. 

The compounds look very similar, but the THC molecule presents a longer hydrocarbon chain than THCV. To get more scientific: cannabigerovarinic acid(CBGVA) is the parent molecule of THCV and THCVA. At high levels, THCV acts similarly to THC as an agonist to the CB1 endocannabinoid receptor. 

The Brain Benefits 

But at low levels, THCV weakens the effects of THC some may not want, like impaired cognitive function. THCV in small doses can lessen the psychoactive effects of THC and offer a clear-headed, energizing yet subtle high. In large amounts, THCV can produce fast-acting psychoactive effects. 

THCV in small doses can lessen the psychoactive effects of THC and offer a clear-headed, energizing yet subtle high. In large amounts, THCV can produce fast-acting psychoactive effects. 

Because THCV can behave as a CB1 receptor antagonist at lower doses, it has many brain benefits. Hernandez points out that it has been researched and found to be very helpful with neurological disorders and Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, THCV was found in a 2010 study to offer antiepileptic and anticonvulsant potential. 

The cannabinoid has garnered scientific interest for possible neuroprotective properties over the years, which means it protects the nervous system. Additionally, THCV has been shown to both prevent seizures and stop them when administered at the onset. In places like Israel, studies being done on THCV show that it is a highly effective compound for managing PTSD, anxiety, and stress. 

Moreover, while THC can exacerbate bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, THCV can help with the management of symptoms. And while it doesn’t suppress emotions surrounding stress or anxiety, it may help prevent or reduce panic attacks. 

How it helps with exercise

When used in conjunction with the correct terpenes, Hernandez said that it can be a strong anti-inflammatory compound. She suggests looking for broad-spectrum, whole plant sources. 

“When choosing cannabis products, I encourage finding whole plants, which is best for balance and creating homeostasis within the body,” Hernandez said. 

“When choosing cannabis products, I encourage finding whole plants, which is best for balance and creating homeostasis within the body,” Hernandez said. 

One study including two models of mouse obesity found that while there was no proof of THCV impacting food intake or weight gain, it dose-dependently reduced glucose intolerance in genetically obese mice. In 2012, the American Journal of Pathology deemed THCV a possible treatment for Diabetes because of its ability to decrease oxidative stress and inflammation.

Shonda Broom, a holistic health practitioner, said that THCV can help with the management of glucose levels. 

“THCV provides glycemic control, meaning if someone is a type 2 diabetic, they can help control their blood sugar levels and keep them in a normal range,” Broom said. 

Furthermore, the compound results in fast-acting and transient energy, which can assist in a physical wellness routine. The anti-inflammatory benefits of THCV, paired with its energy-boosting properties, make it a great addition to exercise, Bloom pointed out. Additionally, the compound has shown bone health benefits.

I found that it did help me power through my workouts. Maybe that is because analgesic effects are the result of CB2 receptor interactions. What that means is that pain is numbed externally and internally, without impairing mental alertness.

THC has been shown to lead to an elevated heart rate, and in studies THCV was shown to inhibit THC-induced increased heart rate. Nine out of ten participants reported THC under THCV condition (compared to a placebo) to be subjectively weaker or less intense. There is also evidence that the compound can promote bone regeneration and be used to prevent bone diseases. 

Ultimately, I didn’t see a major weight loss when I tried THCV, but I also don’t own a scale. I did see a marked difference in my ability to focus and to work out. Because I take other forms of plant medicine, it can be difficult to isolate the specific benefits of any one cannabinoid. 

Until more research is done, the onus remains on the consumer to determine which cultivator is best. Before adding anything to an exercise or wellness routine, it is recommended to check with your healthcare provider.

Thanks for reading! 🙏🏽

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