The Therapeutic Value of THCV
THCV is rumored to be a new therapeutic power player, with positive impacts on health both mentally and physically. Many consumers state that cannabis strains and products containing tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) help them focus and improve mental engagement, as well as decrease their appetite while medicating. But what’s even more intriguing about this cannabinoid is the supporting evidence surrounding its use to potentially improve insulin sensitivity and some other significant underpinnings associated with diabetes. Let’s dig in!
What is THCV?
THCV is a structural analog of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This means that the molecular structures are very similar to one another, but a differentiating component exists, such as one or more atoms or structural group. (The image below illustrates the difference between the molecules.) Certain chemovars of cannabis express a gene that produces the compound divarinolic acid, which combines with geranyl pyrophosphate (GPP) to form CBGVA instead of CBGA, and therefore THCVA instead of THCA. Other “varin” cannabinoids exist as well, such as CBDV, CBCV, and CBGV.
The Therapeutic Value of THCV
THCV is classified as a CB1 “receptor neutral antagonist,” which in a general sense means it has no direct effect or slight opposing effects on the endocannabinoid system (ECS). It differs from CB1-activating compounds like THC. Because of this, THCV may turn down ECS activity, potentially decreasing and preventing unwanted effects like memory impairment, the inability to recall vocabulary and thoughts, a slower perceived reaction time, as well as paranoia.
It also binds strongly to CB2 receptors, having a slight agonistic, or activating effect, opposite than when interacting with CB1 receptors. This unique combination of cellular interactions allows THCV to do what it does best!
The unique compound may be classified as one of a few psychotropic and intoxicating cannabinoids found in cannabis, however the experience is not synonymous with that of THC, and its actions may be regarded as dose dependent. This means, as the dose increases, it is thought that THCV may switch and become a partial agonist, or activator of the entire ECS, activating both CB1 and CB2 receptors. Anecdotal evidence supports the onset of activity is much quicker, milder and of a shorter duration, and it may be assumed that less is required for therapeutic effect (you’d be lucky to find a strain containing 0.5% – a little goes a long way).
Research supports the notion that THCV may combat the adverse effects associated with being sensitive to or consuming too much THC. Its mechanism of action suggests this based on how it binds to ECS receptors, predominantly when the two cannabinoids are consumed together. That being said, evidence further states THCV may be effective in combating anxiety and short-term memory impairment. Patients prone to anxiety when consuming cannabis may be able to worry less about using strains and products containing it.
Appetite Suppression
What is even more intriguing? THCV may help combat the munchies, so unless you’re using cannabis to help you gain weight, this could be a major benefit. Diving a bit deeper, several studies have shown the effects of neutral antagonists, like synthetic cannabinoid AM4113, to block endocannabinoid tone and lead to a decrease in appetite. The mechanism of THCV is similar, though more research needs to be conducted in support of these claims.
Insulin Sensitivity
A very compelling animal study was published in a 2013 edition of Nature’s Nutrition and Diabetes, illustrating the positive effects of THCV on insulin sensitivity. In the study, both genetically obese (ob/ob) mice and dietarily-induced obese mice were placed on different THCV dosing regimens, both alongside control groups that received a placebo treatment. The research team tracked body mass, blood glucose and insulin levels were measured (among other biomarkers). Overall, THCV reduced glucose intolerance in all mice, improved insulin sensitivity in some of the mice, and restored insulin signalling in liver cells.
In 2016, the support for these findings increased significantly after the American Diabetes Association published a study conducted using patients with untreated type II diabetes. The results? THCV significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels and improved pancreatic β-cell function (the cells responsible for producing insulin).
What does this mean for diabetics? THCV could be a potential drug useful in controlling blood sugar and perhaps treating the underlying causes associated with diabetes and metabolic syndrome. These findings are important and promising on many levels, and more clinical trials investigating the therapeutic potential in those with diabetes are warranted.
Where can I find THCV?
Some strains that express the gene leading to THCVA production (thus THCV) include Durban Poison, Jack the Ripper and GSC. However, if you come across a strain that includes one of these as a cross, it doesn’t guarantee that the gene was expressed in the chosen phenotype that causes the plant to produce THCV, so do your homework. And don’t expect to find it frequently or in high potency (even 0.5% in cured flower isn’t typical). There are a few cannabis products that contain THCV and are specifically formulated to maximize its therapeutic benefits. Happy medicating!
Jennifer Corso has been diligently involved in the rule-making process with the Arizona Department of Health Services Medical Marijuana Program. She was formerly the Chief Scientific Officer for Level One Labs, the premier cannabis testing laboratory in Arizona and before that, the Lead Scientist for Darwin Brands. She’s presented research and spoken at various events, including the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, the American College of Sports Medicine, US Cannabis Conference 2018, as well as MITA AZ and Women Grow Phoenix. Jennifer is also a US Army veteran. Follow her on Instagram.
Sources: Jadoon, K. A., Ratcliffe, S. H., Barrett, D. A., Thomas, E. L., Stott, C., Bell, J. D., … & Tan, G. D. (2016). Efficacy and safety of cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabivarin on glycemic and lipid parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group pilot study. Diabetes Care, 39(10), 1777-1786. McPartland, J. M., Duncan, M., Di Marzo, V., & Pertwee, R. G. (2015). Are cannabidiol and Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabivarin negative modulators of the endocannabinoid system? A systematic review. British journal of pharmacology, 172(3), 737-753. Wargent, E. T., Zaibi, M. S., Silvestri, C., Hislop, D. C., Stocker, C. J., Stott, C. G., … & Cawthorne, M. A. (2013). The cannabinoid Δ 9-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) ameliorates insulin sensitivity in two mouse models of obesity. Nutrition & diabetes, 3(5), e68.
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