THCV

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a relatively abundant yet little-known cannabinoid. It is a compound that potentially provides people with an array of benefits and unique effects. Researchers discovered THCV in 1973, and while it isn’t as popular as CBD or THC, it is an extremely well-studied cannabinoid with multiple beneficial health effects.

In 2007, researchers found that THCV may directly antagonize THC, reducing its effectiveness and decreasing impairment. A 2008 study provided further evidence that THCV may act as a CB1 antagonist, and in 2010, researchers investigated the potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of this unique cannabinoid.

Also in 2010, a study was published detailing the potential anticonvulsant effects of THCV, and research into the potential benefits of this cannabinoid has accelerated dramatically over the last decade. THCV was first studied for its potential impact on insulin sensitivity in 2013, and in 2015, the British Journal of Pharmacology published a review detailing the research that had been conducted into THCV’s potential usefulness to regulate blood glucose levels.

Indicating increased interest in using THCV as a diabetes drug, a 2016 study examined the safety of this cannabinoid when administered to patients with type 2 diabetes. Research into the potential diabetes benefits of THCV has continued to gain momentum over the last several years, and in 2019, researchers examined the potential benefits of THCV for nicotine addiction. In 2020, a new review was published discussing the potential usefulness of THCV for diabetes, indicating that pharmaceutical companies are keenly interested in this cannabinoid as a potential antidiabetic medication.