THCV is gaining a reputation for its myriad therapeutic values, offering relief from anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, neurodegenerative symptoms like tremors and as an effective appetite suppressant. Recently, studies have indicated that THCV may also play a part in maintaining bone health and stimulating bone growth.
The ‘V’ in THCV stands for ‘Variens’, Latin for ‘variant’. THCV is a variant of the powerhouse THC, but unlike its namesake THCV is non-psychoactive. THCV is known as one of the ‘lesser cannabinoids’, not because it has less value but because it is found in small quantities in the cannabis plant. Other ‘lesser cannabinoids’ include CBG and CBN, which have their own particular strengths.
Since 2018 the therapeutic potential of THCV has been studied by the Medical Cannabis Research Consortium of Marin, which is run by Dr. Moskowitz and has our own Leonard Leinow as a contributor. The group has been at the forefront of finding and cultivating cannabis strains which have substantial levels of THCV and documenting the encouraging results.
Following the research, here is the summarized evaluation of THCV benefits:
Appetite Suppressant and Energy Metabolism
THC has a deserved reputation for appetite stimulation, THCV does the opposite and has garnered a reputation as ‘diet weed”. THCV suppresses excessive appetite by creating satiety- that satisfied full feeling you get after eating a meal, even on a reduced caloric intake. At the same time THCV is upregulating energy metabolism by processing blood sugars faster which aids weight loss. Ongoing research on the ability of THCV to treat Type Two Diabetes focuses on improved glucose tolerance and regulation of insulin levels to stabilize blood sugar levels. Preliminary studies show THCV acting as an effective therapeutic agent for glycemic control in Type 2 diabetic patients. New science around blood sugar regulation drugs as helpful for Parkinson’s indicates that THCV may help both Diabetes and Parkinson’s patients via this avenue.
Neuroprotection
THCV is indicated for relieving tremors, and exerting antiepileptic/ anticonvulsant properties through an affinity with both CB1 and CB2 receptors of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). This double bonding has a palliative effect on muscular tremors, including tremors associated with Parkinsons, Alzheimers and ALS. Preliminary studies have also shown encouraging results for THCV in treating seizures and epilepsy.
Nervous System Regulation
Relief from anxiety and stress reduction using THCV is well documented; regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin, melatonin and cortisol, THCV alleviates nervous overstimulation which manifests as PTSD, anxiety and sleep issues. At Synergy we initially recommended THCV solely as a pain remedy and via our membership learned of it’s ability as a sleep aid, in treating Restless Leg Syndrome and for PTSD/anxiety. For those whose adrenals would wake them ready for flight at 3AM or whose thoughts begin to race as soon as they recline our Black Beauty THCV tincture has proved most helpful. Through this same effect it has also proved an excellent “as needed” product to address high anxiety and PTSD, calming the nervous system - not through sedation or inebriation but some other mysterious pathway that is continuing to be revealed via more recent science. This action is best achieved at low, sub-psychoactive doses, of 3-15 drops.
New Areas of Research: Anti- Nausea, Antipsychotic, Anti-cholesterol, Bone Health & Growth.
Cannabinoids have a remarkable propensity for having multiple therapeutic actions and for overlapping and positively reinforcing each other’s abilities. THCV conforms to type in this regard, as new areas of THCV’s potential include anti-nausea, antipsychotic and anti-cholesterol and bone health which overlaps with functions of CBD, CBG and others.
Synergy’s Suggestions
Synergy members’ testimonials show how THCV is effective for various conditions, read about tremor cessation and chronic arthritic pain relief. We often recommend THCV in addition to other cannabinoid protocols when symptoms are getting worse, i.e. increase in pain, anxiety, tremors etc. THCV is seen to act as an amplifier of effect, reinforcing messaging to the ECS. Black Beauty tincture (# 107,108,109) at a low dose (3-15 drops) exhibits no discernable psychoactivity.
Research into THCV has begun in earnest and already we see many viable applications that respond well to this lesser known THC variant.
