This text is about:

• CB1 receptor and metabolism: How the CB1 receptor, a part of the endocannabinoid system, regulates the body’s energy balance and how its overactivation can lead to metabolic disorders.
• Cannabinoids and CB1 receptor: How different cannabinoids, the compounds in cannabis, interact with the CB1 receptor and affect its activity. THC stimulates the CB1 receptor and increases appetite, while THCV and CBD block or reduce its effects and decrease appetite.
• THCV and CBD as potential treatments: How THCV and CBD, two cannabinoids found in some cannabis strains, have shown promising results in animal and human studies for improving metabolic health. They can reduce food intake, body weight, insulin resistance, and blood lipid levels.

The CB1 receptor is a crucial regulator of various metabolic functions, including energy intake and expenditure, glucose and lipid metabolism, and insulin sensitivity. Overactivation of the CB1 receptor, however, can lead to increased appetite, weight gain, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia, among other metabolic disorders. This is where cannabinoids, compounds that interact with the endocannabinoid system, come into play. Cannabinoids can either mimic the effects of endocannabinoids or modulate their activity. For example, THC, a well-known cannabinoid, activates the CB1 receptor and stimulates appetite. On the other hand, cannabinoids such as THCV and CBD can antagonize or partially block the CB1 receptor, leading to reduced appetite, increased energy expenditure, improved glucose tolerance, and lowered lipid levels. THCV, a minor cannabinoid found in some strains of cannabis, particularly those of African origin, has a similar chemical structure to THC but behaves differently within the body. Unlike THC, THCV is a partial antagonist of the CB1 receptor, meaning it can block or attenuate the effects of THC and other CB1 agonists. Various studies have demonstrated THCV’s beneficial effects on metabolism, such as reducing food intake and body weight in obese mice, increasing energy expenditure in lean mice, improving glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in diabetic mice, and lowering blood glucose levels in humans with type 2 diabetes. CBD, a non-intoxicating compound found in high concentrations in hemp and some strains of cannabis, also holds promise for metabolic disorders. CBD can modulate the activity of the CB1 receptor by acting as a negative allosteric modulator, essentially altering the shape of the CB1 receptor to make it less responsive to other ligands. Additionally, CBD can increase the levels of endocannabinoids by inhibiting their degradation enzymes. Studies have shown that CBD can reduce food intake and body weight in obese rats, protect against diet-induced obesity and fatty liver disease in mice, and enhance glucose uptake and insulin sensitivity in muscle cells. In humans with metabolic syndrome, CBD has been found to lower fasting insulin levels and waist circumference. Despite the promising role of cannabinoids, particularly THCV and CBD, in treating metabolic disorders, there are several challenges that need to be addressed. These include a lack of standardized products and dosages for cannabinoids, the need for more extensive clinical trials, potential risks of drug interactions and side effects, and legal uncertainties surrounding cannabis and its derivatives. Moreover, the complexity of the cannabis plant, which contains hundreds of compounds with diverse biological activities, necessitates considering not only individual cannabinoids but also whole-plant extracts and their ratios when studying cannabis for metabolic disorders. While cannabis may not be a magic bullet for metabolic disorders, it could serve as a natural alternative or an adjunct to conventional treatments. By modulating the endocannabinoid system and restoring its balance, cannabis may help prevent or delay the onset of metabolic disorders. In other words, cannabis may do more than just increase appetite—it may also assist in burning off calories. However, further research is necessary to fully understand the mechanisms of cannabinoids on metabolism and to optimize their formulations, delivery methods, safety, and efficacy for different populations and conditions.

Tetrahydrocannabivarin, or THCV, is a compound found in some strains of cannabis, particularly those of African origin. This compound has become the focus of numerous studies due to its potential health benefits, particularly in regards to metabolism. THCV is a minor cannabinoid, meaning it is found in smaller amounts compared to major cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. It is structurally similar to THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, but it has different effects. THCV is actually a neutral antagonist of the CB1 receptor, which means it does not produce the psychoactive effects that THC does. Researchers have found that THCV may have several potential benefits for metabolism. One of the ways it does this is by acting as an appetite suppressant. Unlike THC, which can induce hunger, THCV has been found to reduce appetite and control cravings, making it potentially useful for weight loss and obesity management. In addition, studies have shown that THCV may have antidiabetic effects. Research indicates it may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance, making it potentially beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. It also may help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the associated risks of diabetes-related complications. THCV may also promote bone growth and density, thanks to its ability to promote the production of new bone cells. This suggests it could be useful in treating conditions such as osteoporosis and other bone-related disorders. Furthermore, research suggests that THCV could be beneficial for heart health. It has been found to reduce heart rate and blood pressure, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. While these potential benefits of THCV are promising, more research is needed to fully understand how this cannabinoid works and to confirm its effectiveness. As with any supplement or medication, it’s also important to remember that individual responses may vary, and what works well for one person may not work as well for another. In conclusion, THCV is a minor cannabinoid with major potential. Its unique properties and potential health benefits make it a compound of interest for researchers and those interested in natural health solutions. Its possible effects on metabolism, in particular, could make it a valuable tool in the management of various metabolic disorders.

Here are some African cannabis strains that are known to have high levels of THCV:

1. Durban Poison: A pure African landrace strain that originated in the city of Durban, South Africa. It is known for its energizing and cerebral effects, and is used by many to alleviate anxiety and depression¹²³.
2. Red Congolese: A sativa-dominant hybrid strain that is believed to have originated in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is known for its uplifting and euphoric effects, and has been used to treat fatigue, stress, and pain⁴.
3. Jack Herer: A sativa-dominant hybrid strain that was named after the famous cannabis activist and author Jack Herer. It is known for its clear-headed and creative effects, and has been used to treat anxiety, depression, and chronic pain¹.
4. Pineapple Purps: A sativa-dominant hybrid strain that is a cross between Pineapple and Purps. It is known for its psychoactive effects, which can be overwhelming for some users. However, it has also been reported to provide mood elevation and pain relief⁴.

Please note that the information provided here is based on anecdotal evidence and may not be scientifically accurate or universally applicable.