What is THC-V?
THC-V, or tetrahydrocannabivarin, is a relatively abundant cannabinoid. It is naturally derived - appearing in certain types of cannabis. Unlike its brothers THC and THC-P, THC-V has little effect on CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system - it is therefore less psychoactive. To achieve these effects, THC-V must be taken in large doses. In such usage, it practically simulates the effects of regular THC, inducing a "high" feeling and providing relaxation. It is most commonly found in products containing THC. Although it may seem that THC-V has little practical use, the opposite is true.
THC vs THC-V
As mentioned above, these two cannabinoids differ mainly in the intensity of their effects. THC-V can simulate the effects of THC in large doses due to their similar chemical structure.
One of the most fascinating differences between these two cannabinoids is that THCV suppresses appetite, while THC actually increases it.
Weight Reduction
THC-V acts as a great helper in suppressing hunger for those struggling with obesity or just trying to lose a few pounds. And it is no coincidence - THC-V suppresses CB1 receptors in the brain, which are responsible for sending hunger signals to the body. It is a great alternative to other vitamins and dietary supplements that often have undesirable effects on our psyche. In future articles, we will tell you more about dosing and use for optimal weight reduction.
It is obvious, however, that merely using THC-V is not enough for weight reduction and it is necessary to incorporate a healthy lifestyle into your daily routine. It can be an excellent aid against those few pounds that you just can't seem to get rid of at any cost.
Reduction of Glucose Intolerance
The ability to suppress appetite leads to another positive influence that THC-V can have - THCV has the potential as a treatment method for diabetics who suffer from glucose intolerance related to obesity.
A 2013 study showed that administering THC-V for 13 weeks reduced plasma glucose and improved the function of beta cells, adiponectin, and apolipoprotein A in the pancreas of patients with type 2 diabetes.
Reduction of Stress and Anxiety
THC-V suppresses receptors in our brain that trigger our so-called "panic mode." This is responsible for unpleasant feelings such as fear and anxiety, which we often go through in stressful situations. It helps to reduce and in better cases even eliminate panic attacks. This discovery can be revolutionary especially in the treatment of patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder or other anxiety disorders.
Fight Against Inflammation
THC-V is also great as a prevention and treatment against inflammation in the body. It reduces swelling and pain during early stages of inflammation. Thanks to a study where cannabinoids were administered to mice exposed to inflammatory chemicals, it was also found that mice did not develop tolerance to THC-V even after long-term administration of the compound. It is therefore possible to use the compound as a prevention without worry.
Antipsychotic Effects
Antipsychotics are drugs that treat psychoses - disorders in which a person loses touch with reality. The most common symptoms include hallucinations, panic attacks, delusions, and overall problems with thinking "correctly." Antipsychotics help reduce the function of chemicals like dopamine and serotonin in the brain, stabilizing mood and reducing these symptoms.
Most antipsychotics act on 5-HT1 A serotonin receptors, which reduce the production of proteins in the body and consequently slow down communication between various parts of the brain. THC-V, like antipsychotics, affects part of these receptors and can therefore help reduce psychosis symptoms.