Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is one of 110+ phytocannabinoids currently being explored for its potential benefits.
THCV is derived from cannabis and may produce psychoactive effects in high amounts. Many cannabis retail stores in states without legal recreational marijuana laws are selling THCV-heavy strains called "diet weed." Many cannabis advocates believe it could also help curb the effects of THC, including overindulging in munchies and stress. Here's some useful tidbits you need to know before buying THCV.
Will THCV Get Me High?
In small amounts, THCV shouldn't promote a mind-altering effect. Actually, it might counteract some of the effects of THC, including reducing your high. However, consuming a lot of THCV can promote mind-altering effects.
Initially, THCV was only found in marijuana plants. However, hemp farmers started breeding hemp plants with high levels of THCV cannabis, which can cause intoxication.
Due to its shorter molecular chain, a THCV-induced high may not be as intense or last as long. However, it's sufficient enough for cannabis retailers to market and generate sales. Many cannabis consumers in states without recreational laws find THCV cannabis an acceptable alternative to traditional marijuana until legalization happens.
What Are THCV’s Effects?
Much like THC, THCV has a penchant for CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. CB1 receptors are abundant in the brain and throughout the central nervous system.
However, THCV doesn't cause the psychoactive effects of marijuana. In lower amounts, it may actually counteract some of the effects of THC and help manage appetite.
Cannabis experts believe that THCV could support motor function and cognitive performance, and prevent munchies and other undesirable effects associated with THC consumption.
It accomplishes these tasks by blocking the CB1 receptors. These are the receptors THC binds to, which causes hunger pangs, clouds mental clarity, and impairs judgment.
Due to its interaction with CB1 receptors, experts believe that THCV may positively impact mood. These receptors also influence our comfort. So, there is hope that THCV might provide daily joint support, much like CBD products do.
Additionally, THCV seems to impact our feelings of satiety. Our hunger is regulated by hormones dictated by our endocannabinoid system. Since THCV prevents THC from causing excessive hunger pangs, THCV might be helpful in curbing overeating.
While THCV seems like the perfect counteraction to THC, there is always the risk of having too much of a good thing. THCV effects change as you increase your intake.
High amounts of THCV will promote mind-altering effects similar to THC. Since THCV has a smaller hydrocarbon chain, this high won't last as long. Many THCV users describe it as a short-lived burst of energy.
Will THCV Cause Me to Fail a Drug Test?
Many marijuana drug tests look for metabolites of THC. However, some panels will test for THCV content. It just might not be conclusive results.
One study with non-marijuana smokers found THCV metabolites can stay in the system for up to two weeks. However, only 50% of patients who consumed THCV had detectable THCV levels. So, THCV might not be sensitive enough for current drug tests to give accurate readings.
In any case, until there’s more research, we advise avoiding THCV if you’re worried about an upcoming drug test.