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Glossary

THCV: Tetrahydrocannabivarin

THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) is one of the plus 100 minor cannabinoids produced by cannabis plants. THCV has been less studied than other cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD), but recent research is showing that THCV may offer some unique therapeutic benefits when compared to other cannabinoids.

Are THC and THCV the same thing?

 

No, although they are both cannabis-produced cannabinoids and share a very similar chemical structure, THC and THCV are quite different in both effects and potential medical uses. THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for producing the "high". THCV can have very mild psychoactive effects at high doses, but it is found in small quantities in most medical cannabis cultivars.

 

What are the potential medical uses of THCV?

 

Research is still ongoing, but preliminary studies have shown that THCV may have potential appetite-suppressant properties and may also have the ability to reduce anxiety and tremors associated with neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease. It has also been found to have potential anti-inflammatory effects and may even play a role in regulating blood sugar levels.

These results are promising, but more research needs to be done before any definitive claims can be made about the medical uses of THCV.

 

Is THCV available to UK medical cannabis patients?

 

Yes, some of the cannabis cultivars currently available to medical cannabis patients in the UK may contain trace amounts of THCV. However, due to its limited research and availability, it is not an often-prescribed cannabinoid by UK doctors.

If you are interested in the potential of THCV, speak to your prescribing doctor about the possibility of including it in your treatment plan.

To find out if you are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.

If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.