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THCV, or tetrahydrocannabivarin, is a minor cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It is structurally similar to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, but it has distinct effects and potential benefits.
While THC has a pentyl group on the molecule, THCV has a propyl group, this difference in structure is responsible for the differences in the effects produced by these two compounds.
Can THCV Strains Get You High?
THCV interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, mainly targeting the CB1 and CB2 receptors. At low doses, it acts as a CB1 receptor antagonist, contributing to its appetite-suppressing effect
At higher doses, it can activate the CB1 receptor, leading to psychoactive effects.
Does THCV Show Up On a Drug Test?
In one study, THCV metabolite THCV-COOH was identified in the urine of non-chronic marijuana smokers for up to two weeks. This means that THCV can be detected on a drug test.
What is THCV Good For?
Preliminary investigations have showed the following therapeutic benefits of THCV:
- Appetite suppression
- Lowers blood glucose and improves diabetes
- Reduces anxiety and panic attacks
- May help with Alzheimer’s disease
- Stimulates bone growth
Most of the research evidence on the therapeutic benefits of THCV is preliminary. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Which Strains Have The Highest THCV?
If you are looking to try out a marijuana strain with appetite suppressing effects, to help with focus or for more energy you can try any of the strains listed below for the best effects.
1. Dougs Varin
Doug's Varin is the most well-known marijuana strain for its high THCV content.
It is currently cultivated for its high THCV content.
It has an earthy pine aroma that is mixed with citrusy notes. It causes clear headed mental stimulation that doesn’t last for long. It also suppresses the appetite and may promote weight loss.
2. Pineapple Purps
Pineapple Purps is a sativa leaning hybrid strain that is also referred to as Purple Pineapple.
It is a sweet smelling marijuana strain that is packed with high amounts of THCV and moderate THC amounts. The exact parentage is unknown, though some sources claim that it originates from Pineapple Express or a Cheese strain.
3. Malawi Gold
This is a sativa landrace strain that hails from the African continent- Malawi.
It causes an energetic buzz that is mentally stimulating and uplifting. It is loaded with THCV and can be used to suppress appetite as well as facilitate weight loss.
4. Swazi Gold
This is a rare landrace sativa strain that traces its origin to the Nguni people of East Africa. It is a highly resistant strain that does well in spite of fluctuating weather conditions.
It produces a sweet and citrusy flavor and its effects are fast-acting. It’s a great strain for relaxation and unwinding after a long and tiring day.
5. Power Plant
Power Plant is a powerful sativa strain from Dutch Passion Seed Company. It has high THC that ranges between 15%-20% and an equally high THCV amount.
It’s been around since the 1990’s and has won several cannabis awards.
6. Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson is a marijuana strain that is named after the infamous country musician.
In 2005, this strain won the cannabis cup for being the best sativa strain. It has a mix of sweet and sour tastes with a lemon grass appeal.
It is a hybrid cross between Nepalese and a sativa South Asian strain. It causes a clear-headed high when taken in high amounts. It is a great choice for reducing appetite due to its high THCV amounts.
7. Red Congolese
There is a bit of controversy surrounding the origins of this strain. While some argue that it is an Africa Sativa strain, others argue that it has its roots in Mexico.
The Red Congolese is a colorful marijuana strain that induces mental clarity and mild stimulation. It is a perfect strain for combating stress, mind fog, anxiety and obesity.
8. Jack the Ripper
Jack the Ripper is a popular marijuana strain that has won several Cannabis Cups and awards.
Being a potent sativa dominant strain it causes instant cerebral lifting and mental stimulation. The aroma is sweet with hints of spiciness.
9. Pink Boost Goddess
This is a balanced hybrid strain that causes euphoric relaxation when taken in high amounts.
It is packed with THCV and offers numerous therapeutic benefits such as suppressing the appetite, combating pain, reducing anxiety, and combating symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
It is a cross between Black Garlic and Boost Goddess.
10. Skunk #1
Skunk #1 is another award winning strain from the Skunk family. It was originally bred by Sacred Seed Co. as a cross between Afghani landrace, Colombian Gold, and Acapulco Gold.
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There are over 300,000 jobs in the cannabis industry. CTU trained me for one of them!
- Johanna Rose
Makes $24.50 @ THC +
It has the typical skunky marijuana smell and causes a high energy buzz. It has high amounts of THCV.
Is THCV Legal?
While THCV is not specifically listed as a scheduled drug, it is closely related to THC and falls in the category of “Marijuana extracts” which are currently outlawed under federal law.
Consequently, THCV is illegal in all the states where THC is considered illegal for human consumption, possession, or sale.
THCV strains are currently a hit as science begins to catch up on the potential benefits of this new cannabinoid; it would be helpful to lay your hands on a few THCV-potent strains before they get all-too-scarce.
Gavin Kushman
Gavin is a worldly adventurer and cannabis connoisseur, embarking on journeys that take him to the far corners of the globe to explore and document the varied effects, flavors, and histories of both renowned and lesser-known strains. From the misty high-altitude farms of the Hindu Kush highlands to the vibrant cannabis cafes of Amsterdam, Gavin's quest for knowledge spans continents. A recognized authority in the cannabis industry, he frequently lends his expertise to leading publications such as Cannabis Training University, where his captivating blog articles chronicle his unique experiences with different cannabis strains.