Is THCv really “diet weed”?
By Jeff Eckenrode, COO
Photo credit: yunmai
Quick Answer: THCv (tetrahydrocannabivarin) is a minor cannabinoid nicknamed "diet weed" for its appetite-suppressing and energizing effects. Unlike THC, it's produced when THC is exposed to light, heat, or oxygen. It's less potent than THC, acts faster, and is most commonly found in sativa strains like Durban Poison and Tangie.
THCv, commonly called “diet weed”, is celebrated for its appetite-curbing and energy-boosting properties.
So it won’t surprise you to hear that it’s quickly becoming one of the most sought-after cannabinoids in dispensaries nationwide.
But don’t let its name fool you!
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THCv’s effects aren’t known to be as intoxicating as the effects of THC, which can make it a fantastic option if you’re looking for a mellow or awakening cannabis experience.
So, today, we’re going to take a deep dive together to help you learn more about THCv: what it is, what it isn't, and how you can use it to improve your day.
What is THCv?
THCv is short for “tetrahydrocannabivarin” (go ahead, try and say that 3 times fast. We’ll wait).
Unlike THC or CBD, THCv is considered a “minor cannabinoid” by experts.
Why, you ask? Because cannabis plants produce THCv in very, very small amounts.
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But don’t let the term “minor cannabinoid” mislead you! That title refers specifically to THCv’s abundance within cannabis. Not its efficacy.
In reality, minor cannabinoids like THCv can have HUGE effects on your cannabis experience!
But what are those effects, anyway?
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How is THCv different from THC?
Despite years of cannabis research by experts, there is currently no scientific consensus about whether THCv is psychoactive or not!
It’s a very real possibility that THCv, when coupled with THC, works to amplify the psychoactivity of a cannabis high. Or, in short, can make your high more intoxicating.
Anecdotally, THCv has been reported to produce stimulating, active and energizing effects that are mild compared to THC.
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How is THCv made?
Unlike most minor cannabinoids, THCv isn’t produced by cannabis plants as they grow!
In fact, THCv is produced when our favorite cannabinoid, THC, is exposed to light, heat or oxygen. This process, called “oxygenation”, turns THC into THCv.
THCv, even in very small amounts, can have significant physiological effects.
How does THCv work?
Just like THC or CBD, when we consume THCv in an edible or inhale it in a vaporizing cartridge, THCv enters our bloodstream (either through the blood vessels in our gums or the lining of our small intestines).
While in the bloodstream, THCV can interact with receptors in your body.
And even though THCv and THC interact with the exact same receptors, their effects on the human body are different.
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What are the benefits of THCv?
Compared to THC, THCv is less potent. That’s due, in large part, to its abundance in the cannabis flower we smoke or the edibles we ingest.
In terms of experience, THCv typically produces milder effects and takes effect faster than THC.
Photo credit: Haley Phelps
On top of that, many people who use THCv report an appetite-suppressing effect when using it.
Unlike products that are high in THC (which often cause people to feel hungrier), THCv can have the opposite effect! Which is one reason why cannabis products rich in THCv have earned the nickname “diet weed”.
Photo credit: Esteban López
Where can I find Products with THCv?
Whether you’re shopping online or in Redmond, we’re here to help you find what you need, when you need it. That includes cannabis products with THCv!
Click on our online menu link below to see our current availability.
FAQ THCv
What is THCv?
THCv (tetrahydrocannabivarin) is a minor cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It's called "minor" because cannabis produces it in very small amounts — but don't let that fool you. Even trace quantities of THCv can have significant effects on your experience.
How is THCv made?
Unlike most cannabinoids, THCv isn't directly produced as cannabis plants grow. It forms through a process called oxygenation — when THC is exposed to light, heat, or oxygen, it converts into THCv.
Is THCv psychoactive?
There's currently no scientific consensus on whether THCv is psychoactive on its own. Anecdotally, users report mild, stimulating, and energizing effects. When combined with THC, it may amplify the overall high rather than produce a standalone intoxicating effect.
How is THCv different from THC?
Both bind to the same receptors in your Endocannabinoid System, but their effects differ. THCv is generally less potent, acts faster, and — unlike THC — is associated with appetite suppression rather than stimulation. It tends to produce a more alert, functional experience.
Why is THCv called "diet weed"?
Because it suppresses appetite rather than stimulating it (the infamous "munchies" effect of THC). Many users report that THCv-rich products help them feel less hungry, which is one of the main reasons it's earned its "diet weed" nickname.
Where can I find THCv products?
THCv is most abundant in sativa-dominant strains like Durban Poison, Jack the Ripper, and Tangie. Look for these strains or products specifically marketed as THCv-rich at your local dispensary.
Want to learn more about minor cannabinoids and cannabis science?
Then check out our collection of related posts here!