Tetrahydrocannabivarin is a phytocannabinoid rapidly gaining popularity for its unique qualities and effects on the body, metabolism and blood sugar. In recent decades, research into the chemistry of cannabis has uncovered so much of what used to be considered the ‘wow factor’ of the plant, and began identifying what exactly is in this plant that gives it the unique effects it is known for. Reports on the effects of high THCV strains usually involve productivity, increased mood, and reduction of anxiety (1). Finding high THCV strains can be tricky because cannabinoid levels can vary from harvest to harvest, so checking certificates of analysis for THCv content can give you a good idea of how much THCv is an any given strain. A THCV concentrate could also be a good option for those looking to try it out. At Threefoot Wellness, we offer a soft gel with 25mg of CBD and 3mg THCv that works synergistically to control appetite and potentially boost metabolic rates.
THCV Explained
THCV has gained recent popularity, sometimes referred to as the weight loss cannabinoid, for having the unique ability to suppress appetite and help regulate blood sugar levels. Unlike the Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC, THCv is not psychoactive because it blocks the CB1 receptors instead of binding to it like other forms of THC. This is why it has an appetite reducing effect instead of inducing the munchies. In trials done on mice, THCv reduced appetite in the mice, as well as overall body fat and increased the speed that they processed sugar (2). In conjunction with CBD, THCv can reduce anxiety and stress which can cause a spike in the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol is known to cause visceral fat to accumulate around the vital organs, which causes an increase in belly fat. Supporting the nervous system, which is closely related to the endocannabinoid system, with stress reducing and anti inflammatory cannabinoids is a holistic approach to targeting stress related weight gain.
CBD Another Cannabinoid
CBD is another cannabinoid that has the unique ability to decrease appetite, as well as stimulating insulin production (3). There is no correlation between cannabis use and elevated blood sugar; in fact there is data indicating cannabis users on average have lower fasting levels of insulin and less insulin resistance. Considering the important role the endocannabinoid system plays in regulating blood sugar, this makes sense. CBD has the ability to affect G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which play an important role in many bodily functions, including metabolism. Most medications designed to help with blood sugar related issues aim at GPCRs as well. Additionally, there is a plethora of research to indicate CBD can reduce oxidative stress which is a factor in how much damage chronic illness causes (4).
When combined, CBD and THCV show promise in aiding in weight control by decreasing overall appetite, stimulating productivity and increasing metabolization without producing a high or the appetite stimulating side effects high THC Delta 8 and 9 cannabis is known for. If you are looking for a boost to add to your workout routine, looking to experience the benefits of cannabis without the buzz or just searching for something to curb an overactive appetite, come visit us at Threefoot Wellness store or online to see if the ThriVe capsules would be a good option for you.