What is THCV?

Close up view of a hand holding a lit cannabis THCV joint with plants blurred in the background

THCV has been called everything from “weederall” to diet weed. Tetrahydrocannabivarin, or THCV, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid produced by the cannabis plant along with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and terpenes. While THCV is still new to the scene, it has impressed many with its energizing, focusing, and euphoric high–while still creating a lucid, uplifting, experience.

Think of THCV as a partner cannabinoid to THC, often inducing different and sometimes complementary effects. With THCV, you’ll experience a more functional high, perfect for occasions when you want to feel energized and focused. We like to say THCV is all the fun of THC (a social lubricant with added bonuses), but without the downsides (cloudiness, anxiety, lethargy, munchies) that are often associated with THC products.

Health & Wellness

A woman jogging on a wooden trail in a grassy field with sun shining in the background

Early research shows many health and wellness applications for THCV. From positive outcomes for diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, to appetite, and anti-anxiety benefits. While that is promising, much more research and observational studies need to be done.

The Science Behind THCV

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a homologue of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Chemically, the biggest difference between THCV and THC are their side-chain carbon atoms. Each molecule of THCV has three (propyl, 3-carbon), while THC has five (pentyl, 5-carbon). This small difference creates very different effects.

Converting the molecules to THCV or THC

THCV starts with butanoic acid (remember, it only has three side-chain carbon atoms).

THC begins with hexanoic acid (five side-chain carbon atoms).

Both acids are then activated by the same acyl-activating enzyme (AAE) to produce butanoyl CoA (for cannabivarins) and hexanoyl CoA (for cannabinols).