THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin): What is it? Definition, legality… in 2023

The world of cannabinoids is vast, with an estimated one 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 psychoactive effects, is illegal in most European countries, including France. As the market develops, new cannabinoids are being discovered by the public, offering a variety of effects that are always intriguing. Today, we're focusing on tetrahydrocannabivarin, more commonly known as THCV. Several questions arise: What is THCV? What are its effects? Is it usable, and if so, for what purposes? 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 that of THC. Like many other cannabinoids, it is found in trace amounts in most cannabis varieties, whether legal or not. This is not of major importance because THCV is not a toxic molecule at low doses. However, at higher doses, its effects become similar to those of THC.

Not all cannabis varieties contain the same amount of THCV. Higher amounts of tetrahydrocannabivarin are found in Cannabis Sativa, particularly in certain strains originating from Africa.

Since the dawn of cannabis cultivation (several millennia ago), growers have always sought to select plants with the most desirable properties, without always knowing which cannabinoids were responsible. This is the case with THC-V, the content of which has been encouraged, more or less intentionally, by some growers during the hybridization of certain strains.

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

THCV or THC: what are the differences? The THCV molecule is quite similar to that of THC. The major difference, scientifically speaking, is that THCV has a propyl group (a group of three carbon atoms) instead of a pentyl group (a group of five carbon atoms). This difference, although seemingly minor, leads to 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 their similar 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 acidic form) is derived from cannabigerovaric acid (CBGVA).

Let us now move from the somewhat abstract technical details to what this means in concrete terms, that is, in terms of effects.

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

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

Can THCV cause psychotropic effects?

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

Is THCV legal?

There is still no clear answer to this question. On the one hand, THCV is not explicitly mentioned in French and European laws. Therefore, strictly speaking, it is not prohibited. However, psychoactive molecules like THC are considered narcotics, and THCV is undeniably psychoactive (it can produce psychotropic effects). Consequently, the marketing and consumption of THCV in Europe fall into a gray area. Until we learn more about this cannabinoid, it is important to emphasize that, according to the available scientific literature, THCV does not appear to be associated with major side effects.

In summary, tetrahydrocannabivarin (THC-V) is an interesting cannabinoid that raises many questions and offers promising avenues for research and therapeutic potential. However, due to its uncertain legal status and the need for further research, caution is advised when using and consuming THC-V. Feel free to consult the articles and resources available on Lordofcbd.fr to learn more about cannabinoids and their potential effects.

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