In the world of cannabis, Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a captivating subject. This minor cannabinoid may not show up in large amounts, but it can still have a big impact.
In this blog, we’ll explore what THCV is, how it differs from THC, and the details of its legal status.
What Is THCV?
THCV is a minor cannabinoid found in cannabis. It is often noted for its potential appetite-suppressant and energy-boosting effects.
Unlike delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), THCV does not produce the same intoxicating high but may offer a range of other therapeutic benefits.
While research into THCV is ongoing, its unique properties and potential therapeutic applications make it an intriguing compound with immense promise.
THCV vs. THC
| Aspect | THCV | THC |
| Intoxicating Effects | Non-intoxicating or mildly intoxicating in higher doses | Intoxicating; produces a “high” |
| Appetite | May suppress appetite | Known to stimulate appetite (the “munchies”) |
| Energy Levels | Potentially boosts energy and alertness | May boost energy and alertness, but can also be associated with relaxation and sedation |
| Therapeutic value | May aid in weight management, metabolic disorders, and diabetes | Commonly used for pain relief, nausea, stress relief, and appetite stimulation |
| Legal status | Legal status varies; less commonly available | Available in many legal markets |
THCV and THC are distinct cannabinoids, each with unique effects and properties.
THCV is generally non-intoxicating or only mildly intoxicating higher doses, unlike THC which is well-known for the euphoric “high” it produces.
THCV may act as an appetite suppressant, whereas THC is notorious for stimulating appetite and causing the munchies.
Research into THCV is focused on its potential to manage symptoms associated with diabetes, obesity, and metabolic issues. Research into THC is widely focused on pain relief, nausea, and appetite stimulation.
THCV interacts with CB1 receptors as a neutral antagonist, which can counteract some of THC’s effects. THC is a full agonist, which means it strongly activates the CB1 receptors.
THCV shows limited interaction with CB2 receptors, primarily affecting immune functions, whereas THC has minimal effect on CB2 receptors.
What Does THCV Do?
THCV is non-intoxicating, and no significant side effects have been reported. Most researchers believe it to be a safe cannabinoid to consume.
THCV may cause you to feel drowsy, so never drive while under the influence or operate heavy machinery.
THCV has the potential to treat symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Some research suggests it may help reduce agitation and aggression in patients living with Alzheimer’s disease.
THCV may help regulate Type 2 Diabetes. THCV can help regulate metabolism and appetite, which has the potential to help diabetic patients manage their weight and blood sugar levels.
THCV can help balance the effects of THC. Some research suggests that a small amount of THCV can help mitigate side effects of THC, such as feelings of anxiety or increased heart rate.
How will THCV make me feel?
The known effects of THCV are what make it so widely popular of late.
With its tendency to reduce appetite, increase satiety, and up-regulated energy metabolism, many people refer to THCV as the “diet weed”.
In fact, most users experience increased energy, improved exercise performance, and motivation.
Because of its ability to regulate emotional reactions to food and reduce cravings for addictive substances, THCV is the antithesis of the stereotypes associated with cannabis.
Is THCV Legal?
Hemp-derived THCV is considered federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. This is defined as THCV extracted from Cannabis sativa L. plants containing less than 0.3% THC.
THCV is currently illegal in Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, New York, Rhode Island, Utah, and Vermont.
For the most up-to-date information about the legality of THCV, head over to the federal government’s website on illegal substances or your local state government website.
What Are the Highest THCV Strains?
While there is no definitive list of all the strains containing high levels of THCV, there are a few top strains widely known for their THCV concentration. Those strains include:
Willie Nelson
A combination of South Asian and Nepalese sativa strains, Willie Nelson is named after the famous country rocker of the same name. It has a sweet and sour flavor and a high THCV concentration.
Skunk #1
Skunk #1 is a hybrid strain that combines Acapulco Gold, Colombian Gold, and Afghani landrace. It offers a sour blend of earthiness and skunkiness complemented by excellent THCV content.
Red Congolese
Red Congolese doesn’t have clear origins, but it is known for its mild mental stimulation and mental clarity. It’s a sativa strain with a spicy/herbal flavor and sage undertones.
Pineapple Purps
A Sativa-dominant hybrid, Pineapple Purps also has moderate THC levels, close to 17%. It’s a balanced hybrid created from Skunk #1 and Pineapple strains.
Power Plant
Power Plant is a Sativa strain made from an African Sativa. It also offers a buzzy mental state and has a high THC concentration as well.
Jack the Ripper
Jack The Ripper was created by crossing Jack’s Cleaner and a Space Queen seed. Its effects are intense and stimulating on a visual level.
Durban Poison
A pure sativa landrace strain, Durban Poison packs a punch that is energetic and long-lasting. It is also high in THC and THCV.
Tangie
Tangie is a Sativa strain bred by crossing California Orange and Skunk-1. A cross of Cali Orange and a Skunk hybrid, it has a small 0.3% concentration of THCV.
FAQs about THCV
Is THCV Intoxicating?
THCV is generally considered non-intoxicating or only mildly intoxicating in higher doses when compared to THC.
While THC produces a strong “high,” THCV does not typically induce the same level of euphoria or altered state of consciousness.
Its effects are more subtle, which makes it a potential option for those seeking therapeutic benefits without strong intoxicating effects.
What Is Stronger, THC Or THCV?
In terms of psychoactive strength, THC is much stronger than THCV.
THC is known for its potent psychoactive effects and is the primary cannabinoid responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis consumption.
Does THCV Test Positive For THC?
Standard drug tests typically screen for THC and its metabolites, not THCV.
However, because THCV and THC share some structural similarities, there is a possibility that specialized or sensitive tests might detect THCV if they are designed to identify a range of cannabinoids.
Nonetheless, THCV is less likely to cause a positive result on a standard drug test compared to THC.
Buying THCV Strains in New Jersey
If you’re looking for high-quality THCV strains of cannabis in New Jersey, Blue Oak Dispensary is a great place to start your search.
We offer a variety of high-quality cannabis strains and products to help you get the most out of your experience.
Visit us in person to learn more about THCV!
