Cannabinoid Report: A Guide to CBDV Extraction, Storage, Price, Benefits & More
What is CBDV?
Cannabidivarin, or CBDV, is a minor hemp and cannabis compound that was first isolated in 1969. Researchers have identified it as a non-psychoactive compound that shares a similar structure to CBD (cannabidiol) and shows potential to alleviate seizures, improve mood, and protect the brain.
CBDV forms in hemp and cannabis plants through the conversion of its acidic precursor, CBDVA (cannabidivarinic acid). This conversion process, called decarboxylation, occurs when heat exposure removes a carboxyl group from the molecular structure, transforming it into cannabidivarin.
“Varin” Cannabinoids
CBDV is a varin molecule, also called a “varinolic cannabinoid.” It belongs to a family of cannabinoids, including CBCV, CBGV, and THCV, with three carbon atoms in their alkyl side chain. This structure differs from typical cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, which feature five carbon atoms.
The differences in alkyl chain length impact their binding affinity to receptors within the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various physiological processes such as pain, mood, appetite, and memory. Longer side chains generally increase the binding strength to CB1 and CB2 receptors and improve therapeutic outcomes.
Shorter side chains may mean varying cannabinoids bind less strongly to ECS receptors. However, this altered profile might enhance their ability to interact with other receptors or ion channels, potentially leading to different medicinal benefits.
How Does CBDV work in the body?
CBDV has a physiologically irrelevant affinity for cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system. As a result, the compound does not elicit psychoactive effects. However, CBDV’s presence can increase the expression of CB2 receptors, known for regulating the immune system. CBDV also interacts with outside ion channels and enzymes, contributing to its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
TRP Ion Channels
CBDV interacts with TRPV1, TRPV2, and TRPA1 (transient receptor potential vanilloid) ion channels, which are involved in pain and temperature regulation. CBDV quickly desensitizes these channels, which helps reduce excessive neuronal activity associated with seizures.
Enzyme Inhibition
CBDV also inhibits the enzyme diacylglycerol (DAG) lipase, crucial in producing endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds in the body that bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors. By blocking this enzyme, CBDV potentially alters the levels of endocannabinoids in the brain. This interaction may contribute to CBDV's therapeutic effects, though its exact impact remains unclear.
Can CBDV Get You High?
CBDV is a non-psychotropic cannabinoid, meaning that it does not have the intoxicating effects of compounds like THC. Its effects are therapeutic, including neuroprotection, mood support, and potential short-term pain relief through its anti-inflammatory properties.
Potential CBDV Benefits
Most CBDV research focuses on its anti-seizure potential. However, emerging studies show that CBDV’s neuroprotective and antioxidative properties could also support treatment for autism, anxiety, and muscular dystrophy.
Can CBDV Prevent Seizures?
Research shows promise for CBDV’s ability to treat seizure-related conditions. However, clinical studies are ongoing.
GW Pharmaceuticals (now Jazz Pharmaceuticals) was actively developing a CBDV-based drug known as GPW42006 to reduce or prevent various forms of seizures.
However, in February 2018, the company said its Phase 2a placebo-controlled study did not reach its primary endpoints.
- In 2021, GW research, part of GW Pharmaceuticals, co-authored a new Phase 2 Randomized Controlled Trial. This one analyzed the “Efficacy and Safety of Cannabidivarin as Add-on Therapy in Participants with Inadequately Controlled Focal Seizures.” The study found that Cannabidivarin reduced seizure frequency by 40.5%, but its effectiveness was similar to that of placebo.
- The following year, GW Pharmaceuticals provided CBDV for a phase 1 clinical trial that assessed the safety and efficacy of the compound in female children with Rett syndrome and drug-resistant epilepsy. Researchers found that a dose of 10 mg/kg/day of CBDV was safe and well-tolerated, with a median reduction in mean monthly seizure frequency of 79%. Placebo-controlled clinical trials will be needed to confirm this benefit.
In 2022, another study found similar anti-convulsant potential using CBDV’s acidic precursor, CBDVA. Researchers found that CBDVA and CBGVA can block certain channels in brain cells that are linked to epilepsy, making them potentially useful for treating the condition. They also discovered that CBGVA and CBDVA affect another target in the brain, which might enhance their anti-seizure effects. This study was a preclinical investigation involving lab experiments, so it did not confirm clinical benefit.
Can CBDV Improve Autism Spectrum Disorder Symptoms?
There’s evidence that CBDV can help alleviate many conditions associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), such as chronic anxiety, seizures, addictive behavior, and mood disorders. One 2019 study found that CBDV reduced acute anxiety in patients diagnosed with ASD by shifting the balance of the stimulating neurotransmitter glutamate and the relaxing neurotransmitter GABA.
In 2020, GW Research Ltd. supplied the CBDV for a single-dose randomized CBDV trial that explored how cannabidivarin (CBDV) affects striatal functional connectivity (FC) in adults with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Striatal FC refers to how different parts of the brain's striatum communicate with other brain regions, influencing functions like movement, cognition, and emotion.
Researchers discovered that individuals with ASD exhibited atypical FC patterns. However, after administering CBDV, these atypical connections shifted towards patterns characteristic of neurotypical individuals. Such shifts could improve ASD symptoms related to social communication, sensory processing, and repetitive behaviors.
Could CBDV Improve Muscular Dystrophy?
A preclinical study published in 2019 funded by GW Pharmaceuticals examined the effects of CBDV, CBD, and THCV on three underlying causes of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). The team found that CBD and CBDV could restore the function of impaired muscle stem cells and inflammation in the muscle tissue and reduce defective autophagy (the orderly degradation and recycling of cells).
These findings suggest that CBD and CBDV could effectively treat the underlying causes of many different forms of muscular dystrophy, not just DMD. However, human-based clinical trials are needed.
What Types of CBDV Products Are Available?
Cannabidivarin (CBDV) products are becoming more available as interest in the compound's therapeutic potential grows. CBDV products come in various forms and are typically blended with complementary cannabinoids like CBD.
Oils and Tinctures: Liquid CBDV oils and tinctures can be taken sublingually or added to food and drinks. They offer precise dosing, potent concentrations, and quick absorption. Brands like Rare Cannabinoid and Myrium’s Premium Hemp offer concentrated CBDV tinctures that consumers report using for seizures, mood, and autism.
Capsules and Softgels: Capsules provide a convenient way to consume CBDV, with pre-measured doses for consistent use.
Edibles: CBDV-infused gummies, chocolates, and other snacks are less common than oils and capsules. However, CBDV edible blends offer a tasty way to attain the compound’s therapeutic benefits. Some CBDV chews include psychoactive components, like THC, as well.
Topicals: Full-spectrum CBD + CBDV creams, balms, and lotions can be applied directly to the skin for localized relief. Aspen Green offers topical CBDV blends in cooling formulations and for intimate care use.
Vapes: Full-spectrum hemp and cannabis vapes containing CBDV are available for those who prefer inhalation as a method of consumption.
Are There High CBDV Strains?
CBDV is most prevalent in “landrace” hemp and cannabis strains, which are those native to some areas of the world. In particular, Asian and African landrace cannabis strains contain high concentrations of both CBDV and THCV and lower concentrations of THC.
Cannabis cultivators have started using these plants to breed new high-potency CBDV and THCV strains.
Some of the highest CBDV strains available today include:
Is CBDV Legal in the US?
CBDV, derived from hemp with less than 0.3% THC, is federally legal in the United States under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, CBDV from marijuana is still illegal federally. The FDA has not approved CBDV as a dietary supplement or food additive, so the brand cannot make any health or wellness claims on labs. Additionally, state laws vary, so CBDV's legality can differ depending on the state.
How Is CBDV Potency Measured?
Potency tests measure CBDV the same way as CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids. ACS Laboratory uses Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) machinery to measure and detect CBDV levels in edibles and extracts. The HPLC instrument can test samples at room temperature without heat, which changes the results.
Why Should Hemp and Cannabis Brands Test for CBDV Content? Why would consumers care?
Hemp and cannabis brands should test for CBDV content to ensure product quality and transparency. Knowing the CBDV content helps consumers make informed decisions about the potential therapeutic benefits, such as anticonvulsant and anti-inflammatory effects. Testing also ensures consistency and reliability, building consumer trust in the brand. Consumers seeking specific health benefits will appreciate accurate CBDV labeling and targeted formulations.
We test for CBDV along with 29 other cannabinoids in hemp and cannabis flower and finished products. Contact us today to submit samples.
FAQs
What are the main differences between CBDV and CBD?
CBDV is a homolog of CBD, meaning it shares a similar chemical structure but has distinct differences that lead to varied effects and applications. Both CBDV and CBD are non-psychoactive cannabinoids and have been studied for their potential therapeutic applications, including anti-inflammatory, anti-convulsant, and anti-anxiety properties. However, research on CBDV is far less extensive than that on CBD.
Clinical trials have proven CBD’s anti-seizure capabilities, leading to the FDA-approved drug Epidiolex. Conversely, CBDV has yet to pass the FDA approval threshold for medicinal applications. Despite its potential, CBDV remains under-researched compared to its more widely studied counterpart, CBD.
How does CBDV compare to CBDVA?
CBDVA has an extra carboxyl group, which makes it less bioactive in its raw form than CBDV. Conversely, CBDV is the active form, allowing it to interact more readily with the endocannabinoid system. That said, neither compound significantly affects the ECS. Both are non-psychoactive and may exhibit similar therapeutic potential through their anti-inflammatory properties. However, CBDVA research is scant and limited to preclinical studies.
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