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Alongside H4CBD, here are the two new arrivals on the market: THCV and THCP. These are two of the many cannabinoids present in cannabis. As you probably know, alongside 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, and in some cases even opposite. Follow us as we explain it all!
THCV was discovered in the 1970s. The molecule was mainly exploited for legal purposes. After its presence was found to be higher in certain African varieties, it was used to determine the origin of cannabis confiscated by police and customs authorities in various countries.
The discovery of THCP (and CBDP for that matter) is more recent. It was only discovered in 2019. It was made by a team of Italian researchers led by Professor Giuseppe Cannazza of the University of Modena.
Today, these two molecules are attracting renewed interest. Not only on the part of consumers, curious or looking for stronger effects than CBD, but also on the medical side, where there is interest in the many applications in which these substances could make a real difference.
These two compounds, naturally present in the plant, have been little noticed and little studied due to their low concentration. By comparison, THC concentrations regularly exceed 20%, while THCV rarely exceeds 4% and THCP is generally around 0.20%. Certain chemical manipulations are therefore necessary to increase these levels and ensure that they reveal their effects when consumed. Products marketed for their high THCV and THCP content are therefore classified as semi-synthetic.
Like THC, THCP and THCV bind to CB1 receptors, but they also interact with CB2 receptors, giving rise to the effects of CBD. Interestingly, in its natural state, THCV, itself not very psychoactive , multiplies the psychoactive effects of THC. And THCP is considered to be 30 times stronger than THC .
But we'll have to wait a little longer to find out more, as their use and research are still in their infancy, so data on their actual effects is still scarce.
Although the molecular structures of THC, THCV and TCHP are quite similar, their effects all seem to differ.
THCV is considered a "neutral" cannabinoid: it does not provide the psychoactive effects of THC. But this is not the case, as its effects vary according to concentration. When THCV concentration exceeds 10%, it is said to activate CB1 and CB2 receptors, triggering intense relaxation and mild euphoria . Other effects include the following:
Studies1 have also revealed that this substance may possess neuroprotective qualities. The substance could therefore be used to combat certain neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's), as well as obesity and type 2 diabetes, like CBD.
According to studies, THCP seems to bind powerfully to endoreceptors . Its effects on them are rapid, powerful and long-lasting. Although still relatively unknown, tests2 have shown that the substance can reduce sensations of pain and nausea, as well as inflammation. Antioxidant and anti-epileptic properties have also been demonstrated.
It is also a product with powerful psychoactive effects, which can trigger the effects desired by consumers (euphoria, self-consciousness, increased appetite...), but also more harmful ones such as paranoia, stress, tachycardia... and of course, dry mouth!
As far as legality is concerned, both substances benefit from the legal uncertainty surrounding undiscovered or unused cannabinoids and synthetic and semi-synthetic molecules. As with H4CBD, they are legal until proven otherwise. Nevertheless, in view of their initial results in consumer and laboratory trials, we would tend to think that THCV could remain available longer than THCP, due to their psychoactivity.
Following the legalization of CBD, research into cannabinoids continues to expand. Growers keen to develop products that are more appealing to consumers, and researchers eager to learn more about the subject, are finding plenty to occupy them among the long list of cannabinoids that are still largely unknown. These experiments allow us to learn more about cannabis, how it works and its effects on the body. They make it possible to research and treat many illnesses in a gentler, more natural way than with conventional methods.
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