THCV, also known as tetrahydrocannabivarin, is a cannabinoid found in cannabis plants and it has been gaining attention due to its unique potential therapeutic benefits compared to THC and CBD. Its molecular structure is very similar to THC and produces a psychoactive effect. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between THC and THCV, the potential medical uses of THCV, how to use it safely, and where to buy it.
What is THCV and its differences from THC
THCV stands for tetrahydrocannabivarin and shares a similar structure to THC, tetrahydrocannabinol, but some key differences exist between them. Firstly, THCV has a higher boiling point, which means if you plan on vaping it you will need to turn up your heat temperature on your device. THCV also is more prominent in sativa strains of cannabis, compared to THC being more readily available in all strains of cannabis. Essentially this means that THCV brings on more energizing and euphoric effects, as well as suppression of appetite. Compare this to indica strains of THC that have exact opposite effects, making one usually more lethargic, hungry, and relaxed. Some have dubbed THCV as “diet weed” due to its ability to suppress hunger, and some people have used it as such to help manage their weight. Do keep in mind that there are still strains of THC that are heavy sativa based and could achieve these similar effects.
Now this is where an important key difference is, THCV is about 75% less potent than THC because of it containing less carbon in its molecular structure. With its potency being way less than THC, an estimate of about 10mg of THCV or less is not enough to give someone a psychoactive effect or the “high” feeling. Anything higher than 10mg and you’ll start to feel similar effects to THC, these effects will not last as long compared to THC. One final key difference is that some States have not outlawed THCV compared to THC being illegal in many States or locked behind medical licenses. A combination of all these differences makes THCV a very appealing alternative to THC, especially if you are not interested in getting very high or high at all and still getting the benefits.
The Benefits of THCV
THCV has several potential benefits. It has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety, improving focus, and decreasing inflammation. It has also been shown to be effective in treating pain, nausea, and seizures. THCV is currently being studied for its potential to treat obesity and type 2 diabetes, with its ability to suppress appetite it effective helps lower fasting blood glucose levels, increases beta cell function which are responsible for varying the rate of insulin synthesis and secretion. In addition, THCV has been studied for its potential to treat Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurological disorders.
With it being legal in many States it’s a great option if you’re looking to try it for any of these medical purposes without the hassle of trying to get approval for a medical license. As for now, more studies are needed with THCV still being “new” to the market.
How to Use THCV: Dosing and Tips for Beginners
The primary ways THCV is consumed is by vaping, edibles, and tinctures. The optimal dosage of THCV can vary depending on the individual, so it is important to start with a low dose and increase gradually, remember that 10mg threshold is the norm for having an high like effects. As always it is important to consult with a doctor before using THCV if you are taking other medications or have other medical complications that your doctor is trying to troubleshoot.
The potential side effects of THCV are generally mild, with the decrease in appetite being the main noticeable one which is typically sought after by users. It is considered to be safe and well-tolerated in general, but definitely take it slow with dosages if you don’t tolerate THC effects well.
THCV is readily available from a variety of sources, including online dispensaries, brick-and-mortar dispensaries, and specialty stores. It is important to research each source before purchasing to ensure that the product is safe and of high quality, you will find this information in a COA or Certificate of Analysis. These certificates show the 3rd party lab testing done to determine all compounds found in the product and ensure that there are safe levels of to no contaminants. Additionally, it is important to be aware of any local laws and regulations before purchasing THCV, some States are outlawed it or only allow use and sale for medical purposes requiring a license.
A Short Wrap Up for THCV
THCV is a cannabinoid found in cannabis plants that has been gaining attention due to its potential therapeutic benefits. It is structurally like THC, the psychoactive compound of cannabis, but it has some unique effects. It is 75% less potent with its high effect and lasts a shorter length compared to THC. It’s great for those looking to suppress appetite, focus the mind, and get an energy boost. We hope this article has been helpful in uncovering the potential of THCV, and we encourage you to explore the potential benefits of this amazing cannabinoid.
