CBDv is a cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp plants.
There are over 100 identified cannabinoids present in Cannabis Sativa L, but most people are only aware of THC and CBD.
Now, as interest in the therapeutic (and potentially clinical) value of multiple cannabinoids grows, research and understanding of the less ‘mainstream’ cannabinoids are picking up.
So, is CBDv set to be the next big wellness trend?
Without further ado, let’s take a closer look at this CBD-adjacent cannabinoid.
In this article, we will discuss:
- What is CBDv used for?
- What are CBDv effects?
- What are the benefits associated with CBDv
- The legality of CBDv
In this guide:
What is CBDV?
CBDv is also known as Cannabidivarin.
It was identified for the first time in 1969 by researchers in Germany. CBDv is a homolog of CBD, which means it has a similar structure.
CBDv is often a very minor part of the cannabinoid profile, but some strains of C. Indica landrace are naturally higher in this compound. Usually found in Asia and Africa, these strains are also naturally low in THC.
Read more: Guide to cannabinoids
What is CBDv used for?
CBDv isn’t currently being isolated and sold as an individual cannabinoid, but promising research indicates that CBDv may have therapeutic and even clinical potential.
However, it may be found in traces in other CBD products. You can check the lab results of your CBD product to see if it contains CBDv.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the potential benefits of CBDV.
What are the benefits of CBDV?
CBDv is currently being studied as a possible treatment for multiple conditions, including Retts syndromes, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
CBDv as an anticonvulsant
CBDv has shown promise as an anticonvulsant.
In fact, the cannabinoid has caught the attention of pharmaceutical company GW Pharmaceuticals, responsible for the only two licensed cannabinoid medications on the UK market – Sativex and Epidylex.
In a press release, GW Pharmaceuticals revealed that preliminary studies based on their CBDv-based cannabinoid product, GWP42006, were pointing to a place for CBDv in the treatment of focal seizures and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).
Specifically, there may be a place for CBDv-based medicines in treating Rett syndrome seizures – a rare genetic condition linked to ASD resulting from a mutation on the X chromosome.
In 2012, a study on rats suggested that CBDv had significant anticonvulsant effects while not affecting motor function.
Moreover, in a 2018 study in rodents, CBDv was found to help with neurobehavioural issues associated with Rett Syndrome.
CBDv in treating Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a disease that causes chronic inflammation and damage to the skeletal muscle. A study published in 2019 found that CBDv could prove effective in reducing inflammation and also helping to restore lost muscle mass.
CBDv and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
CBDv could provide a potential treatment for some of the more severe symptoms of ASD, including repetitive behavioural problems, communication, social functioning issues and cognitive issues.
CBDv as an anti-nausea agent
Finally, it is thought that CBDv could be a powerful anti-nausea agent. In rodent tests, CBDV was found to act as an agonist for CB1 receptors, which function to block nausea responses.
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What are CBDv effects?
CBD is non-psychoactive, so it won’t make you feel high. As explained above, it may have therapeutic effects, but we can’t draw clinical conclusions just yet – trials are ongoing, and CBDV is not regulated as a medicine.
In terms of side effects, there have been no adverse side effects reported for CBDv. However, these findings reflect the fact that CBDv is still in clinical trials.
Some researchers have indicated that CBDv may be better tolerated than other cannabinoids. But note it’s still early days, and the full range of CBDv’s effects is still unknown.
Is CBDv legal in the UK?
Yes, since CBDv is non-psychoactive, it is not a controlled drug. This was confirmed by a Home Office representative in a Freedom of Information request.
Only THC and its derivatives and analogues would be considered controlled substances.
While CBDv may be legal, it’s vital to source your cannabinoid supplements from a reputable source. Without a lab test report at your disposal, you’ll have to rely on companies being honest and reliable with their product information.
Always confirm that a third-party laboratory has tested your cannabinoid products and that the certificate of analysis is up-to-date.
Read more: How to read CBD lab results
Final words on CBDv
While research into CBDv looks increasingly promising, clinical trials are still ongoing. We don’t yet know enough about CBDv to determine if it is worthwhile adding to your daily routine.
As the cannabinoid market matures, we expect to see far more cannabinoid isolates cropping up with new promises and selling points.
But for now, more research is needed into the potential benefits of adding CBDv to CBD, in what proportions, how often and in what dosage.
For now, anyone curious about cannabinoids would be wise to seek out a reputable CBD supplier (oh, hey!)
Choosing organic, sustainable broad-spectrum CBD or full-spectrum CBD oil products will ensure you’re enjoying a premium-quality CBD oil filled with terpenes, flavonoids and complementary cannabinoids – but without any hidden extras or untested isolates.
Frequently asked questions:
What is the difference between CBDv and CBD?
When it comes to CBDv vs CBD, the cannabinoids are structurally similar: both have the same molecular composition and arrangement. However, CBDv has fewer carbons. We also know more about CBD!
Is CBDv good for anxiety?
There isn’t enough research available for CBDv for us to make any clinical conclusions. Still, a 2019 study conducted on CBDv and ADS unexpectedly found that by impacting the production of the neurotransmitter GABA, CBDv may be useful for anxiety.
We look forward to follow-up research, but in the meantime, you can read more about CBD and anxiety here.
