The Therapeutic Value of THCV

In the world of cannabis medicine, CBD is trending and research supporting its medicinal claims is consistently growing. But among the familiar compounds found in cannabis, like THC and CBD, are others, each with their own supposed impact on physiological homeostasis. One such compound is Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV).

THCV is rumored to be a new therapeutic power player, with potential positive impacts on health both mentally and physically.  Many patients state that cannabis strains and products containing 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. The value of THCV is growing. Let’s dig in!

What is THCV? Is it the same as THC?

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.

In a very technical nutshell, 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 attenuate ECS activity, potentially decreasing and preventing unwanted adverse effects of using THC such as memory impairment, the inability to recall vocabulary and thoughts, a slower perceived reaction time, as well as paranoia.

THCV also has a strong binding affinity to CB2 receptors, producing a slight agonistic, or activating effect, opposite its interaction with CB1 receptors. The unique combination of cellular responses 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 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 signaling 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?

If you’re interested in trying it out, some strains that express the gene leading to THCVA production (and therefore, THCV when decarboxylated) include Durban Poison, Jack the Ripper and GSC.  However, if you come across a strain that includes one of these as a genetic cross, it doesn’t guarantee that the gene was expressed in the chosen phenotype that causes the plant to produce THCV. Basically, do your homework and talk to your local dispensary agent or cultivation facility.  And don’t expect to find it frequently or in high concentrations (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. One interesting product is the Engage + THCV vape cartridge produced by Darwin Brands in Arizona, and the only one like it in the market.  The oil contains about four times more THCV than the higher potencies found in naturally grown strains of cannabis flower, helping to ensure that the consumer gets a desired and consistent effect, maximizing the therapeutic value of this rare cannabinoid. In addition, the product contains a proprietary blend of other natural volatile compounds believed to work synergistically to create the effects warranted. Cool!

Interested in more cannabis science? Check out our other articles, here!

References:

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.