When people first search for cannabinoids on the internet, one of the first results is CBD. This non-psychoactive cannabinoid has gained popularity over the past couple of years because of its anti-inflammatory and antidepressant properties, according to consumers and some limited studies.
However, more than 120 different cannabinoids exist within the cannabis plant. Each compound exists in various concentrations, and all bring their own unique effects. One such cannabinoid is receiving attention for its interesting potential in a number of applications. That cannabinoid is CBDV.
Cannabidivarin
Discovered in 1971, but not researched until recently, Cannabidivarin, also known as CBDV, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found more prevalently in indica strains of hemp that contain low levels of THC. CBDV is closely related to CBD in structure as well as its benefits, making it a cannabinoid of interest when it comes to scientific research and application.
Research
GW Pharmaceuticals has been leading the charge when it comes to CBD and CBDV research. Back in 2018, the pharmacy and research company unveiled a new seizure drug approved by the FDA. It’s called Epidiolex and it’s main ingredient is CBD. This is the first time that a cannabinoid earned approval for medicinal usage in children. Specifically, it’s for children who have a rare form of seizures that aren’t controllable by standard seizure and epilepsy medications.
But research into CBDV has proven to be incredibly useful. In a 2012 study published by the British Journal of Pharmacology, both mice and rats received CBDV. Results showed CBDV to be an effective anticonvulsant (anti-seizure) against a wide range of seizure types, not just those typically caused by epilepsy. The following year, 2013, saw a study published by PeerJ that took the study of CBDV even further. They studied how CBDV interacted on the cellular level, learning that the cannabinoid interacted with different triggers that have been known to cause seizures for various reasons in people.
CBDV interacts with these triggers and suppresses them. This means that it lessened their convulsing effect and stopped the seizure within the cell itself. The compound stopped the seizures, regardless of source. Because of these results, more potential for research and experimentation is open and encouraged by the scientific community.
Future for CBDV
The early research shows that CBDV has the potential to become an anti-seizure medication in the future. However, researchers need time and funds to make any definitive claims.
What do you think about this compound? Let us know in the comments below. And, as always, check back for more cannabinoid news and reviews.
