Yo, what’s good? If you’re into smoking weed, or just looking for some health benefits, you might wanna check out this dope-ass cannabinoid called THCV. It’s the new kid on the block and everyone is talking about it. This article is gonna break down everything you need to know about THCV – what it is, how it’s different from THC, and all the health benefits it has to offer, like suppressing your appetite and treating neurodegenerative diseases. You’ll also learn where to find strains with high levels of THCV and how to consume it.
So, what is THCV?
THCV (that’s tetrahydrocannabivarin for ya) is a minor cannabinoid that’s found in small amounts in most strains of weed. But don’t let that fool you – it’s packed with unique health benefits that aren’t found in other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. THCV is mostly found in Cannabis sativa, which makes sense because this strain is known for its uplifting and stimulating effects.
Scientists have known about THCV since 1973, but they haven’t done a lot of research on it until recently. One reason for this is that most strains of weed contain only trace amounts of THCV, so it’s been hard to study. But now, researchers are starting to isolate THCV and breed special strains of weed that are high in THCV, so we can expect to learn more about this cannabinoid in the future.
What’s the difference between THC and THCV?
THC and THCV are similar in structure with one slight difference – THC has a pentyl (5 carbon) group while THCV has a propyl (3 carbon) group. This small variation means that THC activates CB1 receptors in your brain while THCV actually blocks them. This means that small doses of THCV won’t get you high like THC will, although higher doses can produce a similar psychoactive effect.
One of the biggest differences between THC and THCV is their effect on appetite. We all know that THC gives you the munchies, but THCV actually suppresses your appetite. This means that strains high in THCV can help you lose weight instead of gaining it like most strains high in THC.
What are the health benefits of THCV?
Weight Loss
As I mentioned earlier, one of the biggest benefits of THCV is its ability to suppress your appetite. This makes it a great aid for weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. Unlike prescription weight loss drugs that can have serious side effects, using THCV to suppress your appetite is a much healthier option.
Treatment for Diabetes
THCV has been shown to decrease blood glucose levels and increase insulin production in animal studies. This makes it a potential treatment for Type II diabetes. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease the pain of neuropathy, which is another symptom of diabetes.
Stimulates Bone Growth
THCV has been shown to promote the growth of new bone cells which could make it a potential treatment for osteoporosis and other bone conditions.
Improved Symptoms of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Research has shown that THCV can reduce symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease such as tremors, motor control, and brain lesions. It also has antioxidant neuroprotective properties that can help relieve symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and potentially delay its progression. Its anticonvulsant properties have been shown to improve symptoms of seizure disorders like epilepsy.
Reduces Anxiety
THCV has been shown to reduce or even eliminate anxiety attacks without suppressing emotion. This makes it an effective treatment for patients with anxiety disorders such as PTSD. It also enhances 5-HT1A receptor activation which creates antipsychotic effects that could be useful in treating some negative cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
THCV is considered an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects as well. Research has shown decreased signs of inflammation and inflammatory pain in mice. It’s known to block CB1 receptors but can activate CB2 receptors which give it the ability to decrease inflammation.
Is THCV legal?
The legality of THCV is unclear in the United States since it comes from weed and can be psychoactive in large doses. While it’s not classified as a Schedule I drug like THC, possession intended for human consumption could be prosecuted under the Federal Analog Act. In the UK, THCV is listed as a Schedule 1 drug which means it’s illegal to sell or possess.
Which strains are high in THCV?
If you wanna feel the effects of THCV, you’ll need to find strains that are specifically bred to be high in THCV. African sativas are known to have higher amounts than indicas or hybrids. Some strains have even been specially bred for their high levels like Doug’s Varin which contains up to 28% THCV or Slim Hash which has up to 38.44% THCV.
How can you consume THCV?
You can consume strains high in THCV through flower form or processed into extracts, oils, or edibles for a higher concentration of cannabinoids. You can find tablets that contain equal parts THC, THCV, and CBG or oils if you’re looking for therapeutic benefits instead of psychoactive effects. Vape pens and cartridges also come in pure THCV or a 1:1 ratio with THC if you prefer vaping.
In conclusion
THCV is a minor cannabinoid with major health benefits that everyone should know about! It’s not only great for suppressing your appetite but also potentially treating diabetes, bone conditions, neurodegenerative diseases, anxiety disorders, and inflammation. As more research is done on this cannabinoid and more strains are bred with high levels of THCV, we’ll learn even more about its amazing properties!