CBD vs THCv: Comparing Two Powerhouse Cannabinoids

Recently, more countries have been legalizing hemp and various cannabis-related products. Both regular users and curious consumers seem increasingly interested in expanding their options. Some of these options include cannabidiol or CBD and tetrahydrocannabivarin or THCv. Most regular cannabis users have heard of THC but maybe not THCv. However, THCv is another psychoactive cannabinoid with uses of its own. Comparing CBD vs THCv should provide interesting insight into what possibilities cannabis has yet to reveal. 

The Effects Of CBD vs THCv

While both THCv and CBD have a similar chemical composition, their effects on the body are very different. Unlike THCv, CBD does not cause an intoxicating effect. While CBD may cause feelings of relaxation, it does not cause the typical “high” that THC does.

THCv on the other hand will get users high since it is a psychoactive compound. However, this only happens in very high doses and the effects are very different than regular THC. 

Some say that THCv gives its users a clearer head during a buzz while also providing energy. THCv also induces a “cerebral euphoria” that is amplified when compared to THC. 

Chemical Structure Alterations – CBD Vs THCv

CBD has 30 hydrogen atoms, 21 carbon atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms, and THCv has a similar makeup. However, it has a special side chain of 3 carbon atoms. Even though this might seem like a relatively small difference in the composition, this changes the effects that each has on its users. As a result, the body then metabolizes them in a completely different manner.  

In essence, the neurotransmitter release is affected in the brain. This just simply means that the messages between the cells and their individual roles (stress, sleep, pain, immune function) are altered. 

The Potential Benefits of CBD Vs THCv

CBD is linked with various products that can help with epilepsy, osteoarthritis, back pain, or even cancer. Doctors all around the United States are looking into the benefits of CBD and if it is a suitable option for use with any medical condtions.

CBD

Anxiety Relief – CBD may aid with anxiety because it triggers a serotonin response in the brain. Serotonin is one of the main chemicals that effects overall mental health. CBD causes the brain to respond differently than SSRIs. It is thought to combat social anxiety by reducing stress and heart rate.

Anti-Seizure – For quite some time, CBD has been making headlines as a possible treatment for epilepsy. While research is still ongoing, the Epilepsy Society has indicated that this might be the ray of hope that patients have been longing for. Patients in several studies have already experienced a tremendous reduction in their total amount of monthly seizures. The drug Epidiolex is the only hemp drug that the FDA has approved.

Neuroprotective – Neurodegenerative disorders are those that leave persons suffering from nerve and brain deterioration. As such, researchers are currently administering CBD oil for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke to see the effects. CBD appears to reduce the levels of inflammation that may make these diseases worse. 

Pain Relief – The signal received by the brain just might be the perfect solution for managing pain. People say that CBD offers substantial benefits for those undergoing chemo. For many people, cannabis also plays a huge role in relieving their symptoms of arthritis, muscle pain, chronic pain, spinal cord injuries, and others. 

Anti-Acne – The effects of CBD on the immune receptors may reduce inflammation throughout the body. In essence, this leads to reduced acne since CBD actively prevents the sebaceous glands from working against the body by producing too much sebum. Remember that you should always consult with the doctor before self-soothing. 

THCv

Appetite Suppressant – Unlike other cannabinoids, THCv is an appetite suppressant. Some are turning to THCv to aid in their weight loss journey and target obesity. However, those who are dealing with anorexia or appetite loss should steer clear of this cannabinoid. 

Diabetes – THCv is showing promise since it has the ability to regulate the levels of sugar within the blood. It reduces fasting plasma glucose and can even improve pancreatic functions. Several researchers have concluded that it has the ability to regulate the glycemic levels in those suffering from type 2 diabetes. 

Reduces Panic Attacks – THCv can reduce anxiety attacks in persons suffering from PTSD. The advantage THCv has here is that it works without suppressing the emotions of the person involved. 

Stimulates Bone Growth – Since THCv is linked to the production of new bone cells, it is undergoing further studies as a therapy for a form of osteoporosis along with various conditions of the same manner. 

Legality of CBD Vs THCv

Within the United States, cannabis laws are constantly changing and evolving. Several substances acts and other administrative policies have removed hemp. But it is still a Schedule I drug. However, at the rate marijuana is being legalized it shouldn’t be long before there are no legal restrictions. 

You can still easily access medical-grade cannabis even though it has very high levels of psychoactive compounds. However, this form of the drug will need to be prescribed by a medical health care practitioner. So far you can legally use marijuana in several states, and hemp in all 50. Hemp is cannabis with 0.3% or less THC. CBD that comes from hemp is therefore legal in all 50 states as long as it contains 0.3% THC.

When it comes to THCv, there is still a gray area in some states. Unlike CBD, THCv is not on the federal list of scheduled drugs in the US. The Convention on Psychotropic Substances hasn’t scheduled THCv either. However, the Federal Analog Act does consider it illegal. 

Side Effects Of CBD

CBD almost never causes negative side effects in users. This even applies to rather large doses. However, interactions with other medications can still be unpredictable. You should discuss medicine interactions with your doctor before trying CBD.

Temporary effects of CBD could include fatigue, weight loss, dizziness, diarrhea, and changes in appetite. 

Since there is only a small body of research on THCv, the results for side-effects are inconclusive at this point. However, it just might be a healthier alternative to regular THC. Since it occurs naturally, it can be completely synthesized. This makes it valuable within the medical field. There’s a chance that more pharmaceutical companies will investigate the effects further. 

Takeaway

Both THCv and CBD have several useful medical benefits. However, you should always consider drug interactions before mixing them with other medications. Even though studies on THCv are still ongoing, there’s not much information on the side effects. Overall, both cannabinoids show great potential for future medical use. If you want to add these two natural substances to your health regimen, consider Tanasi. Every available cannabinoid from the hemp plant is included in Tanasi’s full spectrum hemp extracts. This allows users to experience the full entourage effect that cannabis can provide.