THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in cannabis (and the human body) that offers a unique array of effects, as well as medical benefits (currently being researched in multiple studies). However, to get the desired amount of THCV in our products here at Ethereal Gold Dispensary, we must once again rely on Synthetic Conversion as hemp does not have a high enough concentration of natural THCV, much like Delta-8.
What is Synthetic Conversion and is it Dangerous?
Yes. Synthetic conversion can be very dangerous if you are buying products from a company that does not provide you with verifiable Certificates of Analysis (COAs) complete with a solvent report. There are manufacturers that may use potentially unsafe chemicals to make THCV through synthetic conversion, which is why we at Ethereal Gold Dispensary require complete third-party, verifiable COAs with solvent reports before we will even consider offering a product to you. Not only that, but we do our own batch spot testing to verify COA results. You can see these COAs under the "Lab Reports" section on each product.
However, solvents in products are not the only risk with conversion or extraction. You also need to have a full panel report of any contaminants, as some manufacturers will cut corners even more and mass produce in unsafe, uncontrolled, and unsanitary settings. The Ethereal Gold Dispensary Standard for all products we carry (both online and in our physical location) is far beyond the bare minimum requirement at state level, which is just a potency test for a small portion of a batch of products.
Always get your COAs and work with trusted sellers when purchasing products.
Is THCV Psychoactive and Will I Get High?
THCV is a psychoactive cannabinoid. However, it has a very weak binding ability for CB1 receptors in the brain. It would require an immense amount to be intoxicating, similar to CBN. However, it does have many beneficial effects that we will cover below! As far as drug tests go, THCV should not show up on drug tests. Yet, if it is a low quality drug test, the chances of THCV and any other cannabinoid showing up are much higher.
Is THCV Legal to Purchase?
As of July 10, 2022 THCV is legal to purchase in 37 states, the main reason behind it being illegal in 13 states is because of the synthetic conversion process we mentioned above. Instead of regulating testing and requiring full panel COAs like we do at Ethereal Gold Dispensary, states are simply making these cannabinoids with beneficial effects illegal. Our main mission at Ethereal Gold Dispensary is to educate and inform of these beneficial cannabinoids and how testing to keep consumers safe is available.
Benefits of THCV
- THCV is an appetite suppressant, unlike THC is known to give the munchies. It is very popular among intermittent fasting communities and with those who are focused on weight loss.
- THCV may help diabetes patients, studies show THCV is able to regulate blood sugar and help to reduce insulin resistance.
- THCV may help with anxiety and panic attacks in PTSD patients, without suppressing emotions
- THCV stimulates bone grow. It promotes the growth of new bone cells. THCV is being studied for osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions.
- THCV may help Alzheimer's patients. Tremors, brain lesions, and motor control loss associated with Alzheimer's disease appear to be improved by THCV, but this research is still in progress.
Risks of THCV
So far THCV has had no major negative effects. However, in trials some patients noted feeling more tired than usual, regardless of THCV being marketed as given energy. Until you know how THCV personally effects you, it is recommended that you do not drive or operate heavy machinery as (like all cannabinoids) it can effect everyone system differently.
Safe THCV Products
Sources:
- https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-thcv-and-what-are-the-benefits-of-this-cannabinoid
- https://herb.co/learn/where-is-thcv-legal/#:~:text=Here%20is%20a%20complete%20list,Carolina%2C%20North%20Dakota%2C%20Ohio%2C
- https://greenunicornfarms.com/blog/what-is-thcv/
For more information, blogs, and cannabis news make sure to head over to the Ethereal Gold Dispensary Blogs section!
