THC-v, another cannabinoid you must know about
Since its debut in the 1970s, cannabis research has come a long way, uncovering the many medical miracles the plant has to offer. Today, we will explore what "Tetra" cannabinoids have in store for the cannabis community. Before starting, I should explain how to read this blog. We begin by introducing the cannabinoid, followed by the most prominent medical benefits, and we end with products that contain the specific cannabinoid. Prepare to immerse yourself in the wonders of THCV
THCV in Puerto Rico
Don't let the first three letters fool you. Although THCV and THC share many similarities in molecular structure, they both have quite different properties. When activated at a high temperature (428 ° F), THCV can cause a very short-lived psychoactive effect in contrast to the long-lasting effect of THC. It is a form of THC, much rarer to find. So, this is what you need to know about THCV.
The cannabinoid can only be found in native Sativa strains. Some of the reported effects of THCV once consumed are concentrated, motivated, active and stimulating. With little to no sedative effects, THCV is the perfect cannabinoid for daytime use.
So the question remains, does THCV get you high? The answer, as always: it depends! THCV is a CB1 antagonist at a low dose, which means that it turns off our CB1 receptors, literally reducing a high THC level. However, THCV is a CB1 agonist in higher doses, which means you can feel the effect but it is not high.
Medical benefits of THCV
- Appetite suppressant
THCV has been reported to reduce and even curb your appetite for hours at a time! In one study, international researchers found that THCV reduces appetite and increases satiety (the feeling of being full).
- Antioxidant
According to the British Journal of Pharmacology, THCV has the ability to block CB1 receptors while simultaneously activating CB2 receptors. With these antioxidant properties, THCV is a strong competitor against the progression of Parkinson's disease. Similarly, it can delay neurodegeneration, which is one of the most damaging symptoms of PD (2)..
Diabetes and THCV
There is also evidence that THCV can help those with diabetes. In 2013, Nutrition and Diabetes Journal studied the potential effects of THCV on type 2 diabetes. The study found that THCV produced an increase in energy expenditure and reduced glucose intolerance, and also increased insulin sensitivity. The study concluded that THVC may be a "treatment for glucose intolerance associated with obesity." Another study in 2016 found that THCV improved pancreatic cell function in patients with type 2 diabetes.
References:
- (1) Abioye, A., Ayodele, O., Marinkovic, A. et al. Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV): a commentary on potential therapeutic benefit for the management of obesity and diabetes. J Cannabis Res 2, 6 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-020-0016-7
- (2) García, C., Palomo-Garo, C., García-Arencibia, M., Ramos, J., Pertwee, R. and Fernández-Ruiz, J. (2011), Symptom-relieving and neuroprotective effects of the phytocannabinoid Δ9-THCV in animal models of Parkinson’s disease. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163: 1495-1506. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01278.x
- (3) Hampson, A.J., Grimaldi, M., Axelrod, J.,&Wink, D.(1998). Cannabidioland (-)Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol are neuroprotective antioxidants. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 95(14), 8268–8273. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.95.14.8268
Keep out of the reach of children. For the exclusive use of adults over 21 years of age.