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THCV and THCP: everything you need to know about these new compounds
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4 min
Alongside H4CBD, two molecules became available on the French and European markets in 2023: THCV and THCP. These are two of the many cannabinoids found in cannabis. As you probably know, besides the two best-known and most concentrated compounds, THC and CBD, there are over 130 cannabinoids present in cannabis.
As their names suggest, tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) and tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP) are closely related to THC, but their effects are different, even opposite in some cases. Follow us, we'll explain it all!
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A bit of culture: the discovery of THCP and THCV
THCV was discovered in the 1970s. The molecule was primarily used for legal purposes. After it was observed that its presence was higher in certain African varieties, it was used to determine the origin of cannabis confiscated by police and customs officials in various countries.
The discovery of THCP (and CBDP at the same time) is more recent. It dates only from 2019. It is thanks to a team of Italian researchers led by Professor Giuseppe Cannazza of the University of Modena.
Today, these two molecules are experiencing a significant resurgence of interest. Not only from consumers, curious or seeking stronger effects than CBD, but also from the medical field, where there is interest in the numerous applications in which these substances could make a real difference.
Natural molecules, but not quite
These two compounds, naturally present in the plant, have received little attention and have been little studied due to their low concentrations. By comparison, THC concentrations regularly exceed 20%, while THCV very rarely exceeds 4%, and THCP is generally found around 0.20%. Certain chemical manipulations are therefore necessary to increase these levels and make them produce their effects upon consumption. Products marketed for their high concentrations of THCV and THCP will thus be classified as semi-synthetic products.
How do these two molecules work?
Like THC, THCP and THCV bind to CB1 receptors, but they also interact with CB2 receptors, producing the effects of CBD. Interestingly, in its natural state, THCV, which is itself only slightly psychoactive, amplifies the psychoactive effects of THC. And THCP is considered to have an effect 30 times stronger than THC.
But we will have to wait a little longer to find out more, because their use and research on them are very recent, and data on their real effects are still limited.
The effects of THCP and THCV
Although the molecular structures of THC, THCV and TCHP are quite similar to each other, their effects all seem to be different.
The properties of Tetrahydrocannabiphosphate (THCP)
Studies suggest that THCP binds strongly to endorphins, having rapid, potent, and long-lasting effects on them. Although still relatively unknown, tests [2] have shown that the substance can reduce pain, nausea, and inflammation. They have also demonstrated antioxidant and anti-epileptic properties.
It is also a product with powerful psychoactive effects; it could trigger effects quite similar to THC (euphoria, self-awareness, increased appetite…), but also more harmful ones such as paranoia, stress, tachycardia… and of course, dry mouth!
The properties of tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)
THCV is considered a "neutral" cannabinoid: it does not produce the psychoactive effects of THC. However, this is a relative term, as its effects vary depending on the concentration. When the THCV concentration exceeds 10%, it can activate CB1 and CB2 receptors, causing intense relaxation and mild euphoria. Among the other recorded effects, the most notable are:
- An exciting effect
- Appetite and blood sugar regulation
- An anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving action
- A decrease in anxiety
Studies[1] have also found that this substance may possess neuroprotective qualities. The substance could therefore be used in the fight against certain neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease), but also against obesity and diabetes , like CBD.
THCP and THCV: are they legal?
Regarding legality, these two substances benefited from a legal loophole that allowed them to remain legal for a while. However, based on initial results from consumer and laboratory studies, we thought that THCV might remain available longer than THCP due to its psychoactivity. And we were right; as of June 3rd, THCP is illegal in France. THCV, on the other hand, is now only authorized at a concentration not exceeding 0.3%.
Sources
- [1]
- [2]
