Tetrahydrocannabivarin, or THCV for short, is a compound found in cannabis delivering an array of unique medical benefits and effects that distinguish it from other cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC.
Whether you’re a casual cannabis consumer chasing a pre-defined effect or an MMJ patient seeking relief, we’ve composed this guide to introduce both types of smokers to this miracle compound that has been making waves in the cannabis community.
As we study, learn, and discover more about THCV and its range of potential uses, its applications have become versatile.
What is THCV?
As the name implies, THCV’s molecular structure is similar to that of THC and its psychoactive properties, although, it delivers a set of pronounced and very unique effects.
A quick note for vaporizer consumers: Compared to THC, THCV has a boiling point of 428 °F (220 °C) so you will need to raise the temperature more when making oil.
Benefits Associated with THCV
Unlike THC, THCV is an appetite suppressant.
In contrast to THC, which is known for its appetite-enhancement properties, THCV dulls the appetite.
This makes it ideal for those on weight-loss plans that need an all-natural suppressant. However, it should be avoided by those struggling with anorexia or ongoing loss of appetite.
THCV can also help with diabetes. Research studies show promising results concluding that THCV helps to regulate blood sugar levels while simultaneously reducing insulin resistance.
Furthermore, THCV has shown to reduce the occurrence of panic attacks. Because it helps to reduce anxiety attacks for those struggling with PTSD without suppressing emotions, THCV has become a go-to for those challenged with chronic anxiety, PTSD, or any other emotionally-distressing condition.
To the surprise of most, THCV has also shown to help with a mental disease that affects over 3 million adults in the US every year; Alzheimer’s.
THCV has shown to be effective in addressing motor control, brain lesions, and tremors (commonly-associated symptoms of the disease).
While the correlation between THCV and how it treats Alzheimer’s is still being researched, it is common knowledge among medical/clinical researchers and cannabis scholars that this compound does play an active role in treating the condition.
Another benefit of THCV is the compound’s chemical makeup that promotes bone growth. Because the compound promotes bone-cell reproduction, THCV is now being studied as a possible treatment for bone-related diseases, such as osteoporosis.
Where is THCV found?
If you want to enjoy the benefits of THCV as shared above but aren’t sure how to acquire the cannabis products/strains that contain it, a simple search on Leafly can help you find locations local to you that carry THCV-infused products.
Most modern-day strains contain only small, undetectable trace amounts of THCV. This makes achieving the desired therapeutic effects increasingly more difficult.
As popularity and demand for THCV continue to grow (and it is), it’s safe to assume that THCV-rich products will become more prominently available.
But, in the meantime, there are some useful ways to locate this coveted therapeutic gem:
Search for African Sativas: Lab-study results have shown THCV to be most abundant in Sativa-dominant strains, more specifically, landrace strains cultivated in Africa. One such strain goes by the name “Durban Poison”; a THCV-rich strain. We’ll be reviewing some other high-THCV strains below.
Inquire on parent genetics: Challenged with finding a Sativa-dominant African strain? If so, you’re in luck, there are many strains that hybridized African cannabis genetics which predispose the plants to higher THCV-composite potential.
For example, Cherry Pie typically has a high THCV content due to its parent strain; Durban Poison.
You can review strain lineage information on the strain page offered by Leafly. Alternatively, during your next dispensary visit, speak to a budtender and ask to be shown their African hybrid inventory.
Request testing results: A strains genetic lineage alone can’t ensure high-THCV content as cannabinoid contents can vary significantly from harvest to harvest. If you can, speak to a budtender and ask to be shown their selection of lab-tested strains. This way, you can select a THCV-rich strain to enjoy the plethora of therapeutic benefits this compound delivers.
By no means is this a comprehensive, all-inclusive list, although, it does highlight the strains that are known to have higher-than-average THCV contents compared to other strains.
THCV can be consumed in a number of forms, including as a flower. Alternatively, it can be processed into edibles, oils, and even extracts, which compared to flower, have higher concentrations of cannabinoids (THCV).
Some of the strains below, such as Pineapple Purps and Doug’s Varin, were specially cultivated specifically for its increased THCV content.
To reiterate, keep your options focused on African-based Sativa strains as they do contain more THCV in contrast to other strains.
For those wanting to reap the benefits of THCV, try one of these THCV-rich strains:
- Doug’s Varin
- Durban Poison
- Power Plant
- Pineapple Purps
- Willie Nelson
- Red Congolese
- Jack the Ripper
- Skunk #1
- Durban Cheese
With modern-day advancements in medicine and research, taking into account that marijuana now has many science-backed medical applications, it’s no surprise that THCV too has an array of invaluable therapeutic benefits.
Enjoying these perks begins with understanding which strains rich in this compound, and now that you know, you too will be able to join the many other cannabis consumers that are turning to this little-known compound that is changing lives and improving the well-being of consumers.
