THCV or Tetrahydrocannabivarin is a lusted after cannabinoid because it has shown to have appetite suppressing qualities.
This is a homologue of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that has different effects due to a propyl (3-carbon) side chain. THC has a pentyl (5-carbon) group on the molecule. A couple of different studies have shown that this and other propyl cannabinoids present in Cannabis sativa L. These strains come from regions in Africa, China, Nepal, Pakistan, India, Thailand, and Afghanistan.
THCV and a couple of other ‘3 tail’ cannabinoids are referred to as ‘varins’. They are known to have similar but distinctly varying effects from traditional THC. CBD and THC are different from THCV right down to their initial creation. THC and some other choice cannabinoids begin as cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). THCV begins as cannabigerovarin acid (CBGVA). This is the phase that causes the difference in carbon chains. From this point forward the two cannabinoids follow the same process to get to the end point.
Lots of research has been documented that relates ‘the munchies’ to a response in the endocannabinoid system. THC and this cannabinoid actually effect the same receptors. However, it works as an antagonist of CB1 and CB2. This is why it is seen as an appetite suppressant. Some research shows that THCV can even remove the rewarding feeling that we can sometimes get after eating a delicious basket of french fries. Aside from this THCV has shown to be a valuable anti-convulsive cannabinoid.
This is a cannabinoid that is often found in very Sativa dominant strains. It has shown to cause a quick onset psychedelic effect that is very clear headed but wears off quickly. Find THCV in these strains:
- Durban Poison
- Girl Scout Cookies
- Cherry Pie
- Face Off OG
- Jack the Ripper
- Doug’s Varin
- Pineapple Purps
What is your favorite cannabinoid? Or do you possibly prefer ‘the entourage effect‘?
