Tetrahydrocannabivarin, (THCV) is a compound in marijuana that offers a range of effects and medical benefits that sets it apart from other cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
Just like the name suggests, tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is very similar to the famous cannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). These two cannabinoids are similar although they perform in totally converse ways. This is mainly due to the fact that THCV is a homologue of THC, having a propyl (3-carbon) side chain instead of a pentyl (5-carbon) group on the molecule.
Their chemical structure is almost identical, but the producer involved in their conception and the variation of effects are quite differently. Research results show that THCV is mostly common in sativas, particularly landrace strains from Africa and Durban Poison. THCV strains can be consumed in flower form or they can be processed into extracts, oils and edibles for a higher concentration of cannabinoids.
Medical benefits of THCV
Cannabis users have greatly concentrated on THC and ignored the healing properties of THCV. Although both cannabinoids affect the same receptors, they do so in a different style. As mentioned above, these two compounds work hand in hand to bring about an effect. Based on research, THCV intensifies the euphoric high of THC. In other words, it acts as a catalyst to the effects of THC. THCV is psychedelic, clear-headed effect.
THCV also helps in reducing and even blocking panic attacks by curbing anxiety attacks in PSTD patients without suppressing their emotions. THCV only suppresses the ability to panic, associated with Fight or Flight response.
THCV has also been shown to reduce tremors associated with diseases such as Parkinson’s, along with ailments associated with motor control in addition to raising the seizure threshold for those with epilepsy.
THCV also stimulates bone cell growth, and has potential in the treatment of osteoporosis and other bone related ailments. Just like the other cannabinoids, THCV possess pain relieving properties.
THCV and THC
Although they work together to achieve all the above, these two (THC and THCV) differ in one way. Whereas THC induces appetite, THCV suppresses appetite. This has been a great solution to the increasing number of health worrying cases of obesity and diabetes in the United States. THCV blocks the rewarding sensations we experience when eating, often unhealthy, comfort foods in addition to providing energy to the body.
Conclusion
Because of the popularity of its major rival THC, the medical benefits of THCV have been overshadowed. However, with more research being conducted detailing its therapeutic benefits, cases of life grabbing illnesses like obesity are being eliminated and hence earning it more credit.
