THCA vs THCV: What's The Difference?
THCA and THCV are two of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. While they have similar names, their chemical structures and effects on the body are quite different. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at how THCA compares to THCV.
THCA vs. THCV: Chemical Structures
THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid) is the precursor to THC, the cannabinoid responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. THCA is a non-psychoactive compound found in raw cannabis that converts to THC when heated. THCA is a large, bulky molecule with a carboxylic acid group (-COOH) attached to its structure.
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) is a lesser-known cannabinoid found in cannabis. Like THC, THCV is psychoactive and can produce a euphoric high, but its effects are generally shorter-lived and milder than THC. THCV has a unique chemical structure, with a propyl (3-carbon) side chain instead of a pentyl (5-carbon) side chain, as seen in THC and other cannabinoids.
THCA vs. THCV: Effects on the Body
THCA and THCV have distinct effects on the body, despite their similarities in chemical structure. THCA is known for its potential anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and analgesic properties, but more research is needed to fully understand its therapeutic potential. THCV, on the other hand, is thought to help regulate appetite and metabolism and could be an effective treatment for conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
In a study published in Diabetes Care, researchers found that THCV may improve glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes. Another study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology found that THCV could help reduce anxiety and paranoia induced by THC, making it a potential treatment for cannabis-induced anxiety disorders.
THCV is becoming more popular in the cannabis industry as researchers continue to uncover its potential therapeutic benefits. According to a 2017 report by New Frontier Data, THCV is one of the fastest-growing cannabinoids in the legal cannabis industry.
In conclusion, while THCA and THCV are both cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, they differ in their chemical structure, effects on the body, and potential medical benefits. THCA is the acidic precursor to THC and is known for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, but does not produce psychoactive effects. On the other hand, THCV is a psychoactive cannabinoid that can produce euphoria and has potential for weight loss and management of diabetes. Understanding the differences between these cannabinoids can help individuals make more informed decisions about their cannabis use and potentially benefit from the unique properties of each compound.
For more cannabis-related information, be sure to visit www.topshelfhemp.co
Sources:
McPartland JM, Russo EB. Cannabis and cannabis extracts: greater than the sum of their parts? J Cannabis Therapeutics. 2001;1(3-4):103-132. doi: 10.1300/J175v01n03_08
Jadoon KA, Ratcliffe SH, Barrett DA, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabivarin on Glycemic and Lipid Parameters in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Group Pilot Study. Diabetes Care. 2016;39(10):1777-1786. doi:10.2337/dc16-0650
Englund A, Morrison PD, Nottage J, et al. Cannabidiol inhibits THC-elicited paranoid symptoms and hippocampal-dependent memory impairment. J Psychopharmacol. 2013;27(1):19-27. doi:10.1177/0269881112460109
New Frontier Data. Cannabis Industry Annual Report: 2017 Legal Marijuana Outlook. Accessed March 24, 2023. https://newfrontierdata.com/product/cannabis-industry-annual-report-2017-legal-marijuana-outlook/