THCV Tetrahydrocannabivarin, what is it? Definition, legality… in 2023

The universe of cannabinoids is vast, with an estimated more than a hundred different molecules, among which cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the best known. CBD, famous for its calming effects, is entirely legal, while THC, known for its psychotropic effects, is illegal in the majority of European countries, including France. As the market grows, new cannabinoids are being discovered by the public, exhibiting varied but always intriguing effects. Today we are interested in tetrahydrocannabivarin, more commonly known as THCV. Several questions arise: What is THCV? What are its effects ? Is it possible to use it and if so, for what applications? We answer these questions now on Lordofcbd.fr.

Tetrahydrocannabivarin: What do we know about THCV?

THCV is a cannabinoid naturally present in hemp (cannabis sativa).

The structure of THCV is quite similar to THC. Like many other cannabinoids, it is found, in trace form, in most varieties of cannabis, whether legal or not. This is not of major importance because THC-V is not a toxic molecule at low doses. However, at higher doses, its effects approach those of THC.

Not all cannabis strains contain the same amount of THCV. Higher amounts of tetrahydrocannabivarin are found in Cannabis Sativa, particularly in some strains native to Africa.

Since the existence of cannabis cultivation (for several millennia), growers have always sought to select plants with the most attractive properties, without always knowing which cannabinoids are responsible. This is the case of THC-V, the content of which was encouraged, more or less intentionally, by certain cultivators during the hybridization of certain strains.

Without a laboratory analysis of a cannabis plant and its effects, is it so simple to distinguish THC from THCV?

THCV or THC: what are the differences? The THCV molecule is quite close to that of THC. The major difference, scientifically speaking, is that THCV has a propyl (a group of three carbon atoms) instead of a pentyl (a group of five carbon atoms). This difference, although seemingly small, results in significant variations in the effects of the cannabinoid.

In both cases, high doses lead to interaction of the cannabinoid with the body and psychoactive effects. However, the similarities end there.

In reality, THC and THCV, despite the similarity of their names, are not derived from the same parent molecule. THC (like CBD, CBC and CBG) is derived from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). THCV (and THCVA, its acid form) is derived from cannabigerovaric acid (CBGVA).

Now let's move on from the somewhat abstract technical details to what this means concretely, i.e. in terms of effects.

What are the effects of THCV? THCV is primarily known for its ability to reduce appetite, earning it the nickname “diet cannabinoid.” This is a surprising property because cannabis consumption is generally associated with an increase in appetite. This reputation is due to the fact that THC activates the CB1 receptors in our endocannabinoid system (ECS), known to stimulate appetite. Conversely, THCV is a CB1 receptor antagonist, meaning it blocks these receptors and could therefore contribute to a reduction in appetite. This conclusion is supported by several studies, including one conducted in 2009, suggesting that THC-V may promote weight loss. However, these results have so far only been obtained in animals.

Another study, conducted in 2013, suggests that THCV may reduce glucose intolerance associated with obesity. The results of this study do not show a direct correlation between THCV consumption and a reduction in appetite. On the contrary, the energy expenditure of mice that consumed tetrahydrocannabivarin increased significantly, improving glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity at the same time. Although these results are still preliminary, they represent real hope for the treatment of people with diabetes. However, there is still a long way to go before reaching definitive conclusions on humans, and potentially determining a useful dose for diabetics.

Can THCV cause psychotropic effects?

Yes. At high doses, THCV can cause psychotropic effects, similar to those of THC. However, these two cannabinoids act very differently on the body: THC activates the CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system, while THC-V tends to block them. Tetrahydrocannabivarin therefore seems to block certain effects of THC, particularly in terms of speech, feelings of hunger and increased heart rate.

Is THCV legal?

There is no clear answer to this question yet. On the one hand, THCV is not explicitly mentioned in French and European laws. It is therefore not, strictly speaking, prohibited. However, psychoactive molecules like THC are considered narcotics and THCV is undoubtedly psychoactive (it can cause psychotropic effects). Therefore, the marketing and consumption of THCV in Europe is in a gray area. While waiting to learn more about this cannabinoid, it is important to point out that, according to the available scientific documentation, THC-V does not seem to be accompanied by major side effects.

In summary, tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is an interesting cannabinoid that raises many questions and offers promising prospects for research and therapeutic potential. However, due to its uncertain legal status and the need for more research, caution is recommended in the use and consumption of THC-V. Do not hesitate to consult the articles and resources available on Lordofcbd.fr to learn more about cannabinoids and their potential effects.

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