Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It is structurally similar to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, but has unique properties that differentiate it from other cannabinoids.
THCV has gained increasing attention from researchers due to its potential therapeutic properties and unique pharmacological effects. In this article, we will review the latest research on THCV and its potential benefits.
How does THCV Work?
THCV interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a complex cell-signaling system that regulates various physiological processes such as appetite, pain, mood, and memory. THCV has been shown to have both agonist and antagonist effects on the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS. This means that THCV can enhance or reduce the activity of these receptors, depending on the specific conditions.
Studies have shown that THCV can reduce appetite and promote weight loss by acting as a CB1 receptor antagonist, which means it can block the effects of THC on the CB1 receptor.
THCV has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects, which may be beneficial for various medical conditions.
Potential Therapeutic Applications for THCV
Weight Loss and Metabolic Disorders: THCV has been found to reduce appetite and promote weight loss in animal studies, which may have potential applications for the treatment of obesity and related metabolic disorders.
In a 2013 study, THCV was found to reduce food intake and increase energy expenditure in obese mice. [1] A second study done on humans shows THCV improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, suggesting it could be used as a potential treatment for type 2 diabetes. [2]
THCV has earned the nickname “diet weed” because it is known to curb appetite. However, at this time, there is not enough clinical evidence to support THCV as an appetite suppressant.
Neuroprotection: THCV has been shown to have neuroprotective properties that may be beneficial for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. In a 2011 study, THCV was found to protect against neurotoxicity in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease. THCV has also been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which may be beneficial for various neurological conditions.
Acne: THCV, along with the cannabinoids CBC and CBDV, has been shown to reduce arachidonic acid-induced acne-like lipogenesis. It suppressed proliferation and had anti-inflammatory actions. [3] This is promising as a potential new anti-acne agent.
Summary of What You Need to Know About THCV
THCV is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis plants that have gained increasing attention from researchers due to its potential therapeutic properties. THCV has unique pharmacological effects that differentiate it from other cannabinoids, and it interacts with the ECS in a complex manner. Unlike THC, it has no intoxicating effects.
THCV has been found to have potential applications for the treatment of various medical conditions, including weight loss and metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and psychiatric disorders.
At this time, we don’t know enough about THCV to consider it as safe or effective as other cannabinoids. Most studies have been performed on mouse models, not humans. But research is promising for the therapeutic potential of THCV and its safety profile.
Was this article What to Know About THCV useful? Then you may find the article About the Cannabinoids useful.
References
- Wargent, E T et al. “The cannabinoid Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) ameliorates insulin sensitivity in two mouse models of obesity.” Nutrition & diabetes vol. 3,5 e68. 27 May. 2013, doi:10.1038/nutd.2013.9
- Oláh, Attila, et al. “Differential effectiveness of selected non-psychotropic phytocannabinoids on human sebocyte functions implicates their introduction in dry/seborrhoeic skin and acne treatment.” Experimental dermatology vol. 25,9 (2016): 701-7. doi:10.1111/exd.13042
This website does not give medical advice. Speak to your doctor before trying CBD or other cannabinoids. Also, find CBD and Medical Cannabis laws in your state here.