THCv Cannabinoids

ScrogBetty · Jul 11, 2012

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV, THV) is a homologue of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) having a propyl (3-carbon) side chain. This terpeno-phenolic compound is found naturally in Cannabis, sometimes in significant amounts. The psychoactive effects of THCV in Cannabis preparations are not well characterized.

Plants with elevated levels of propyl cannabinoids (including THCV) have been found in populations of Cannabis sativa L. ssp. indica (= Cannabis indica Lam.) from China, India, Nepal, Thailand, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, as well as southern and western Africa. THCV levels up to 53.7% of total cannabinoids have been reported. [1] [2]

THCV has been shown to be a CB1 receptor antagonist, i.e. it blocks the effects of THC.[3]

Many scientists believe that an unlikely weapon in the battle against the America's phat problem... is marijuana's cannabinoid, THCv.

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), works on the same receptors as THC but has entirely the opposite effect. The research will be published in the British Journal of Pharmacology.

THCV is not the first appetite suppressant to be inspired by cannabis. The drug Rimonabant works by blocking the brain receptors that the body's own cannabinoid compounds - released when we comfort eat - attach themselves to. Because the cannabinoids do not reach the receptors in a person taking Rimonabant, they will feel less compulsion to eat.

"There is a large amount of THCV in Pakistani cannabis, which is the one used to make a medicine called 'tincture of cannabis'. That contained about equal amounts of THC and THCV."

Prof Pertwee said that there were several promising medicinal compounds to be derived from cannabis, both for boosting the effects of the body's own cannabinoids and for blocking them.

Boosting the cannabinoids could bring pain relief, for example, and relieve spasms for sufferers of multiple sclerosis. Prof Pertwee added that there was also evidence that the compounds had a protective effect against cancer.

As well as controlling appetite, developing drugs that block the body's cannabinoids could help people to quit smoking by stopping nicotine having any effect on the brain. [source]