What is THCV and how can it help with weight loss?
What is THCV?
THCV stands for tetrahydrocannabivarin, a cannabinoid that occurs naturally in the cannabis plant. It has a similar chemical structure to THC, but differs in the length of the side chain. THC has a side chain of five carbon atoms, THCV only three carbon atoms. However, this small molecular difference has a significant effect on the effects and properties of THCV.
The precursor of THC is tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), whereas the precursor of THCV is cannabigerovarinic acid (CBGVA). Native African strains of Cannabis sativa have the highest THCV content.
THCV is not yet as widespread as some other cannabinoids such as CBD or THC, but information and research suggests that its popularity is likely to increase.
What are the effects of THCV?
THCV has no psychoactive effects when used in small doses. However, some users report an increase in alertness and a clearer mind, relaxation effects and changes in music and colour perception.
Studies suggest a possible benefit of THCV for these problems:
- inflammatory processes
- obesity
- diabetes
- stress, anxiety
- panic attacks
- osteoporosis
A study conducted in 2020 also mentions therapeutic potential in alleviating some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease (alleviating dyskinesia).
As far as side effects, we have virtually no information yet, so we can only go by past experience with cannabinoids that have a similar chemical structure. Based on this analogy, the use of THCV in high doses could produce some of the side effects attributed to THC, such as dry mouth, red eyes, impaired short-term memory, increased heart rate or paranoia.
Although there are no known serious side effects, it is essential to proceed with caution and always start with a low dose.
How does THCV affect the endocannabinoid system?
We already know that the compounds in cannabis interact with our endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a cell signalling system found in all mammals that ensures the stability of the internal environment (homeostasis). It consists of endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors (CB1, CB2) and enzymes and influences a wide range of physiological processes in our body.
hen an imbalance or "disturbance" occurs, the endocannabinoid system responds by producing endocannabinoids that bind to receptors and affect the activity of various cells and tissues in the body. Endocannabinoids help cope with various stressful situations, inflammation and pain. The cannabinoids in cannabis have a similar function to the endocannabinoids that the body creates itself.
THCV can act as both agonist and antagonist at CB1 receptors depending on the dose. At higher doses, it is a CB1 receptor agonist and a CB2 partial agonist. However, the mechanism of action of THCV on receptors is still not fully understood and further research and scientific debate is necessary. What is certain, however, is that some form of interaction with these receptors is taking place, which is why researchers have concluded that THCV could be useful n weight loss and the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes, but also in osteoporosis or in alleviating the symptoms of certain neurodegenerative diseases.
Does THCV help with weight loss?
Some research has found that THCV reduces appetite and increases satiety. It has similar effects to the drug rimonabant, which was approved for the treatment of obesity (it is now banned), but unlike that drug, THCV does not cause serious psychiatric side effects, or at least nothing has been shown to do so. Studies also show that THCV has a positive effect on lowering blood glucose and liver triglycerides.
In 2016, a study was published that evaluated the safety and efficacy of THCV and CBD in patients with type 2 diabetes. This study involved 62 volunteers from patients not treated with insulin. The cannabinoids THCV and CBD were found to be well tolerated in type 2 diabetes. In addition, THCV lowered glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.
THCV offerings
If you're a fan of vaping, you'll be pleased to know that you can choose THCV cartridges from us. These cartridges have a volume of 1 ml and a common 510 thread. For an even better experience, they are enriched with two more cannabinoids CBG (cannabigerol) and CBN (cannabinol). CBG has a calming effect and can improve mood, while CBN is sedative and users seek it out for sleep problems.
THCV cartridges contain 20% THCV, 60% CBG and 20% CBN and you can choose between terpenes from Blue Dream, Green Crack, Sour Diesel and Super Lemon Haze.
THCV edibles, tinctures and gel capsules are now commonly available abroad. It is therefore only a matter of time before the offer in the Czech Republic is expanded to include other products.
Conclusion
THCV is a cannabinoid with great potential, but it has yet to find its fame. While some experience suggests that it improves concentration and causes an increase in mental energy, serious scientific research also suggests its possible future clinical use in weight loss, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis and alleviating the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. THCV is available in vaporizer cartridges with terpenes from popular varieties. As the demand for THCV grows, the supply will undoubtedly expand so that everyone, not just vaping enthusiasts, can enjoy the benefits of this cannabinoid.
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