What Is THCV & How Is It Different From THC?

THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) is a much-hyped cannabinoid that’s gaining popularity for its potentially unique benefits. While chemically similar to its cousin THC, THCV is quite different and does not produce psychoactive effects. In this article, we look at what makes THCV different from other cannabinoids and answer all your questions, including:

• What Is THCV & How Does It Work?

• What Are the Potential Benefits & Effects of THCV?

• How Is THCV Different From Other Cannabinoids?

• How Do You Use THCV

• Frequently Asked Questions About THCV
  
  

Pop culture has given THCV quite a few unique nicknames, including “diet weed.”³ However, it’s important to understand that more research is needed to understand this cannabinoid’s potential. Preliminary studies suggest that THCV may have several benefits. 

• Appetite Suppressant - There is a theory that since THCV can block the CB1 receptor, which is associated with stimulating the appetite, it may actually reduce food cravings.3 There have been several small studies that indicate this may be true, and further research is needed.¹
  
  
• Diabetes - Human studies are limited when it comes to cannabis, but the American Diabetes Association conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on patients with Type 2 Diabetes, and found that THCV significantly decreased blood sugar levels.4 Additional studies have also shown that THCV may improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar.⁵
  
  
• Tremor Reduction - Early animal studies have shown that THCV may reduce tremors associated with conditions like Parkinson’s disease and could delay the progression of the disease.⁶
  
  

While THCV shares some chemical similarities with other cannabinoids, its effects are quite distinct. Here’s how THCV compares with THC, CBD, and Delta-8 THC:

One of the main differences between THCV vs THC is the effect on appetite. While THC is known for stimulating hunger, THCV likely does the opposite by suppressing it. Other key differences include the highly psychoactive nature of THC, versus the potential for intoxicating effects when THCV is consumed in high doses.¹

CBD is a major cannabinoid that is found in abundance in cannabis plants. However, THCV is not so easily found, and has not been studied anywhere near as much as CBD.

Delta-8 THC is a highly controversial cannabinoid that is not widely understood. It does occur naturally in hemp plants but only in small amounts. As a result, most of the Delta-8 THC products on the market are synthetic.⁷ THCV is found naturally in the cannabis plant, and it is particularly common in African landrace strains, like Durban Poison.

THCV is available in a variety of cannabis products, including vapes and edibles. Many cannabis enthusiasts may choose edibles and vapes that contain concentrated levels of THCV for its reported therapeutic benefits.

While the overall amount of THCV concentration is low in cannabis plants, it is higher in African landrace strains. Durban Poison, for example, is known as a THCV-rich strain. Other strains with naturally higher THCV concentrations are Power Plant, Jack the Ripper, Skunk #1, Durban Cheese, Pineapple Purps, Willie Nelson, and Doug’s Varin.⁸

As the cannabinoid gains popularity, you may have questions about THCV effects, legality, and how it compares to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. While you are always welcome to ask your favorite budtender any THCV-related questions, here are some of the most commonly asked ones:

Is THCV legal? 
Whether THCV is legal or not depends on the state. If your state has legalized recreational or medical cannabis, then THCV is legal as well.

Is THCV synthetic?
No, THCV occurs naturally in the cannabis plant.
 

Does THCV get you high?
THCV may produce psychoactive effects, depending on the amount taken. However, it is reported that the impact does not last as long as THC.
 

THCV is still a relatively new cannabinoid in terms of research and public awareness. But its potential benefits and applications are exciting. As studies continue to explore its effects, THCV may prove to be a valuable tool to help manage appetite, support metabolic health, and serve as an anticonvulsant. Talk with your budtender to learn more about this cannabinoid and whether it’s right for you.