What is THCV and What Does it Do?

If you’re familiar with THC, you may be wondering, “What the heck is THCV?”

“Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a cannabis-derived compound with unique properties that set it apart from the more common cannabinoids, such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).” 

Both THCV and THC are what we call cannabinoids, which are compounds of the cannabis plant, and are what give you that sought after “high.” THCV and THC are very closely related, but differ in a few very noticeable ways.

While THC is known for its psychoactive effects, THCV doesn’t have the same properties that produce them. This is because THCV doesn’t bind to the same receptors (CB1) that THC does in the endocannabinoid system, which is a system that controls the parts of our bodies responsible for energy and mood, among other things. This is why some strains high in THC can make you anxious and paranoid, or on the other end, drowsy and lethargic.

“THCV decreases appetite, increases satiety, and up-regulates energy metabolism,” and these benefits are just some of the many that make THCV a great choice.

The main benefits from THCV are: energy boost, appetite suppressant, possible anxiety management, and mood boost.

There are also many potential pharmaceutical benefits currently being researched, including “the management of conditions associated with depression, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, resistant childhood seizures, chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, convulsions, glaucoma, neuropathic pain and a variety of other conditions (Hill 2015; Grant et al. 2012)."

When mixed with THC, the two cannabinoids work together in what’s known as the entourage effect, and create an entirely new experience. With both THC and THCV in one product, you still get the “high” you’re looking for, but without any munchies, brain fog or lethargy.

So when you’re looking for an exciting experience without some of the common side effects THC alone produces, THCV is a great option.

Journal of Cannabis Research. Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV): a commentary on potential therapeutic benefit for the management of obesity and diabetes. Published: 31 January 2020. https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-020-0016-7