For centuries cannabis has been used by different civilizations and cultures but the plant has remained a mystery and its full potential remains a controversy. One of the reasons behind its ambivalence is the lack of research until recently as a result of legal restraints. However, with the evolution of science, technology, and the more liberal approach towards the medical benefits of the herb, cannabis is starting to receive a whole new look.
Diverse research regarding the plant’s ingredients has revealed the powerful effects of cannabis’ compounds from a health perspective. Cannabinoids have made their entrance as the main therapeutic substances of the plant, which successfully communicate with the body via the endocannabinoid system. Although CBD and THC dominate in terms of popularity, there is a large number of unique cannabinoids which also play a crucial role in boosting the body’s functions. CBDV, a less discussed but certainly valuable cannabinoid, is part of the list of powerful cannabinoids worth understanding.
Let’s take a look at what CBDV is and see how it can be used to support the body in certain situations.
CBDV: What is it?
CBDV or cannabidivarin is a phytocannabinoid found in cannabis, with an extremely similar structure to that of CBD. Phytocannabinoids are just like the endocannabinoids found in the body but discovered in plants. Both THC and CBD fall under this category, in addition to around 111 more compounds. Their role in the body is to bind to certain receptors through which they can influence our brain, nervous system, and immune system.
CBDV is similar to CBD from a psychoactive perspective as well as both cannabinoids do not produce the “high” effect typical for THC for example. In that sense, the cannabinoids are safer to use and a preferred method for treating a range of health conditions. However, unlike CBD and THC, which interact mainly with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system CBDV communicates with the TRPV1 or the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1. The TRPV1 is an ion channel found in the central and peripheral nervous system, which is responsible for the perception and management of pain.
Where can you find CBDV?
Although CBDV is not high in dosage in most cannabis strains unlike CBD and THC, it can be discovered predominantly in indica. Most strains available to consumers will not contain high levels of CBDV but the compound can be found in CBD-rich strains and such that comprise of lower levels of THC. The cannabinoid can also be discovered in landrace strains, or pure and raw types of cannabis, which have not been genetically modified or enhanced. Hemp is also a source of CBDV and can be used to exploit the medical benefits of the compound.
Uses of CBDV
The cannabinoid can be used for a range of purposes connected to improving the body’s health. It is worth mentioning that CBDV is not water soluble and therefore oral consumption is not suggested. Instead, experts suggest other methods of administration.
CBDV has been closely related to treating seizures in patients with epilepsy and the compound has seriously been considered as a potential cure in the future. More research is required in order to officially turn CBDV into a legitimate and reliable treatment for the condition. Its anticonvulsant properties and its ability to keep the motor function unaffected make it a powerful alternative to standard medication. In addition, studies have provided proof that the cannabinoid is also successful in decreasing epileptic fits as the compound can suppress the expression of genes related to epilepsy.
The cannabinoid has also been linked to treating and preventing autism. Research suggests that CBDV may be successful in improving cognitive and social skills in addition to stopping irrational or repetitive behaviors. Additional studies are being conducted regarding CBDV’s ability to have a positive effect on autistic children.
CBDV is also being related to the treatment of Rett syndrome – the neurological disorder which attacks mainly women as a result of mutations occurring in the X chromosome. The condition harms the cognitive, sensory, emotional, autonomic, and motor function of the body and CBDV is related to stopping the process of deterioration and treating the condition.
The cannabinoid has also shown a positive influence on curing neuropathic pain, nausea, and can also be used to repel the “munchies”. CBDV is a successful appetite suppressant which can help you omit the risk of becoming obese without the threatening side effects of most pharmaceuticals.
As we can see, the positive effects of CBDV on the body are numerous and although this cannabinoid may not be among the most eminent ones related to cannabis, its potential is significant. The compound is increasingly gaining popularity and attracting attention from the medical world and it may one day be commonly used as a natural remedy.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3283822/
https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bph.12321
https://www.dinafem.org/en/blog/autism-cannabis-cbd-oil-marijuana/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30056123
https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/trial/2014-005344-17/DE/
