THCV - Mind and Body Support

THCV is gaining a reputation for its myriad therapeutic values, offering relief from anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, neurodegenerative symptoms like tremors and as an effective appetite suppressant. Recently, studies have indicated that THCV may also play a part in maintaining bone health and stimulating bone growth.

The ‘V’ in THCV stands for ‘Variens’, Latin for ‘variant’. THCV is a variant of the powerhouse THC, but unlike its namesake THCV is non-psychoactive. THCV is known as one of the ‘lesser cannabinoids’, not because it has less value but because it is found in small quantities in the cannabis plant. Other ‘lesser cannabinoids’ include CBG and CBN, which have their own particular strengths.

Since 2018 the therapeutic potential of THCV has been studied by the Medical Cannabis Research Consortium of Marin, which is run by Dr. Moskowitz and has our own Leonard Leinow as a contributor. The group has been at the forefront of finding and cultivating cannabis strains which have substantial levels of THCV and documenting the encouraging results.

Following the research, here is the summarized evaluation of THCV benefits:

Appetite Suppressant and Energy Metabolism

THC has a deserved reputation for appetite stimulation, THCV does the opposite and has garnered a reputation as ‘diet weed”. THCV suppresses excessive appetite by creating satiety- that satisfied full feeling you get after eating a meal, even on a reduced caloric intake. At the same time THCV is upregulating energy metabolism by processing blood sugars faster which aids weight loss. Ongoing research on the ability of THCV to treat Type Two Diabetes focuses on improved glucose tolerance and regulation of insulin levels to stabilize blood sugar levels. Preliminary studies show THCV acting as an effective therapeutic agent for glycemic control in Type 2 diabetic patients. New science around blood sugar regulation drugs as helpful for Parkinson’s indicates that THCV may help both Diabetes and Parkinson’s patients via this avenue.

Neuroprotection

THCV is indicated for relieving tremors, and exerting antiepileptic/ anticonvulsant properties through an affinity with both CB1 and CB2 receptors of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). This double bonding has a palliative effect on muscular tremors, including tremors associated with Parkinsons, Alzheimers and ALS. Preliminary studies have also shown encouraging results for THCV in treating seizures and epilepsy.

Nervous System Regulation

Relief from anxiety and stress reduction using THCV is well documented; regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin, melatonin and cortisol, THCV alleviates nervous overstimulation which manifests as PTSD, anxiety and sleep issues. At Synergy we initially recommended THCV solely as a pain remedy and via our membership learned of it’s ability as a sleep aid, in treating Restless Leg Syndrome and for PTSD/anxiety. For those whose adrenals would wake them ready for flight at 3AM or whose thoughts begin to race as soon as they recline our Black Beauty THCV tincture has proved most helpful. Through this same effect it has also proved an excellent “as needed” product to address high anxiety and PTSD, calming the nervous system - not through sedation or inebriation but some other mysterious pathway that is continuing to be revealed via more recent science. This action is best achieved at low, sub-psychoactive doses, of 3-15 drops.

New Areas of Research: Anti- Nausea, Antipsychotic, Anti-cholesterol, Bone Health & Growth.

Cannabinoids have a remarkable propensity for having multiple therapeutic actions and for overlapping and positively reinforcing each other’s abilities. THCV conforms to type in this regard, as new areas of THCV’s potential include anti-nausea, antipsychotic and anti-cholesterol and bone health which overlaps with functions of CBD, CBG and others.

Synergy’s Suggestions

Synergy members’ testimonials show how THCV is effective for various conditions, read about tremor cessation and chronic arthritic pain relief. We often recommend THCV in addition to other cannabinoid protocols when symptoms are getting worse, i.e. increase in pain, anxiety, tremors etc. THCV is seen to act as an amplifier of effect, reinforcing messaging to the ECS. Black Beauty tincture (# 107,108,109) at a low dose (3-15 drops) exhibits no discernable psychoactivity.

Research into THCV has begun in earnest and already we see many viable applications that respond well to this lesser known THC variant.

Honoring the Cycles of Nature is Self-Love

Autumn is upon us once more. The daylight hours have shortened, the sun has lowered its daily arc across our sky, and we again find ourselves in a time of transition. Nature, as I am certain you have noticed, is forever changing, transforming itself anew. The only constant in this life is change, and thus the cycles of birth, growth, decline and rebirth dictate our lives. Whether or not we’re aware of it, whether or not we like it, it doesn’t matter. Nature’s cycles are the master plan in which our bodies tune in to find direction.

Seasonally, nature directs the activation of specific bodily processes while also directing the cessation of others. We are to a great degree at her mercy. The days are shortening, the weather is cooling. Nature is inviting you to do as she does… slow down, rest often, eat in ways that nourish you, ensure adequate hydration, and increase vitamin and mineral intake.

Autumn is a time when nature sheds her skin and nourishes herself in preparation for the long winter months ahead. Autumn is a time of reflection and gratitude, in which the act of doing less is in accordance with honoring the cycles of nature. Listening to your body’s inner callings is how you honor nature, and when you honor Mother Nature you honor your humanness. To embrace your humanity is a profound act of self love. One might argue it is a revolutionary act considering we live in a world obsessed with sacrificing the needs of the individual for the wants and desires of society. Learning how to walk gracefully within the cyclical nature of all life is the first step to true wisdom. The wisdom of the ages. The wisdom of nature herself.

It is very important to increase your nutritional intake during the winter months, as for many of us the majority of fruits and vegetables become out of season. The problem with consuming out of season fruits and vegetables is we are once again not honoring the cycles of nature. We must become aware of how and what we eat when the climate shifts and our metabolisms slow down. Eating and buying local produce is so important. The global implications of out of season big business agriculture and what that does to our ecosystems is becoming more and more evident in its unsustainability. Not to mention the C02 from all the transportation of the produce everywhere. It’s a full on assault on our planet for her to be expected to produce what we force her to produce out of sync with her cycles. The good news is we can remedy her by remedying ourselves! To the best of your ability, eat local and fresh vegetables and fruits that are in season in your area. Local meats from local farms are always the best choice if you’re looking for high nutrient density in your food. Nutrient density comes from sunshine, quality soil, quality water, and no exposure to harmful pesticides. Also, the shorter the distance the food, especially produce, has traveled, the more nutrients are still stored inside! The longer something sits the less nutrient dense it is, period. We are supposed to be eating live produce for goodness sake!

Slowing down, cooking for yourself when possible, eating with presence and forgoing distraction, will ease your soul as the days slip into winter… Using your cannabis supplements within this transitory time is very important, as the soothing of the nervous system allows our bodies to refrain from fight or flight. This allows our immune systems to function optimally as well, preventing illness and supporting our bodies as they gracefully transition into another beautiful regeneration season here on earth. As Flu and Covid jabs are offered, we suggest CBDA/CBGA Immune Capsules (#241) to support immune system response to viral contagion As the weather gets colder we frequently recommend Black Beauty tincture (#107 or #108) to bolster effects and to ensure the ECS (Endocannabinoid System) is optimized for overall balanced health.

Remember, to honor your cycles is to honor mother nature in you. To honor nature’s cycles is a radical act of self love.

All my love to all of you on this beautiful journey

Nurse Lauren ॐ

CBGa & CBDa: Dynamic Duo for Bone Health & Beyond

Recently published medical research on bone health has uncovered yet another benefit of the combined synergistic actions of CBG and CBD. CBD has repeatedly revealed the ability to positively activate our ECS system, enabling it to address imbalances and deficiencies that come with age and disease. Studies continue to research the use of minimally processed CBD flowers (forms containing CBDa & CBGa) to battle viral load (infection) & proliferation (symptoms) of Covid 19. The newest scientific research on the combination of these same two cannabinoid’s shows exciting promise around bone loss & healing, immune response, MRSA, cancers, IBS/IBD, and neurological/mental health!

The presentation of CBG and CBD is expressed in two ways: first there are the acid forms CBGa and CBDa which are the precursors of CBD and CBG. The acid forms connect to enzymes rather than receptor sites. Secondly, there are CBG and CBD, the cannabinoids that result when CBGa & CBDa are transformed by the body’s own metabolism or by outside forces such as heat, botanical extraction methods and/or time. These plug directly into the CB1 and CB2 receptors with proven results.

Synergy Wellness products contain both acid and non-acid forms. Our products are created from raw flowers and thoughtfully processed to preserve the synergy that comes from retaining as much cannabinoidal variety as possible - this creates the ‘entourage effect’ where we believe therapeutic action is amplified.

Bone Health

A new study, published in 2023, details how CBD and CBG improve essential bone health by supporting strength (density) and healing. The study explores how these two compounds play a central role in bone formation and the regulation of bone cell growth. The ECS (endocannabinoid system) regulates and monitors both bone cell activity and bone remodeling. Endogenous cannabinoid ligands and receptors are seen in the regulation of bone mass and in the management of bone diseases, like osteoporosis. In study CBGa and CBDa were observed to increase the number of osteoblasts (cells that form bone tissue) per bone surface area, and which also induce the proliferation of bone lining cells. This promoted faster healing of fractures and increased bone density and strength in mice. Reduced pain during bone mending was also noted, this is significant in that NSAIDS (non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs) can slow bone repair by inhibiting the inflammatory phase of the healing process. These findings suggest that age-related bone weakness, osteoporosis and brittle bone conditions can be ameliorated, and bone fractures can heal faster and more effectively using CBG and CBD.

Immune Support

Supporting our immune system is the reason we take vitamin supplements and now we know cannabinoids also play a part in boosting our immunity.  The coronavirus pandemic led to important discoveries about the immune-supporting function of cannabinoids. In July 2020, researchers at the University of Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada published a paper on preventive treatments using CBD in the treatment of SARS Covid-19. Their research showed CBD could be used to combat Covid by modulating levels of ACE2 receptors: these receptors are found in vulnerable gateway tissue: lungs, kidney, liver, they act as entry portals for virus’ to gain access to cells - CBD blocked ACE2 receptor sites at a 70% percent success rate - radically reducing the possibility of infection.

 In 2021 Oregon State University published results of tests using two cannabis compounds: CDGa - cannabigerolic acid and CBDa - cannabidiolic acid which were found to have potential to fight coronavirus. In laboratory tests these two compounds bound to the virus’ spike proteins and blocked a step that the pathogen uses to infect cells.

Brain Health

CBD and CBG play an overlapping role in brain health, using unique receptor pathways they produce a strong anti-inflammatory response to  protect brain cells, reducing anxiety and overstimulation. Potential for treating Alzeimers and other neurodegenerative conditions comes as research in mice shows CBG exerting a complex action involving blocking 5HT1A , a serotonin receptor, while stimulating TRPV1 & 2 receptors which led to significantly enhanced learning and memory faculties.  CBG and CBD act collaboratively and elicit bold responses, as an anti-anxiety medication the combination is recommended for panic attacks.

Appetite Stimulant and Microbiome Support

Often THC is an effective appetite stimulant but the psychoactive component can be difficult for some. Research shows positive results for CBG and CBD improving appetite and research with IBD sufferers has shown corresponding reduction in digestive pain and inflammation.

Anti-Tumor

CBD has been studied far greater than CBG and its anti-cancer properties are documented. Interest in CBG and its combined use with CBD has spiked with published research showing that CBG and CBD caused apoptosis (cell death) in colon cancer cells in mice.

The interest in CBD and CBG is reflected in ongoing research and the sphere of influence of these cannabinoids continues to grow.

New studies on the antibacterial properties of CBG and CBD showed positive results with methicillin-resistant MRSA staph infections.

In psychiatric medicine Dr Bonnie Goldstein is developing therapies for bi-polar conditions and autism which utilize CBG and CBD.

Following the science, Synergy Wellness offers doctor-formulated full spectrum CBDa/CBGa capsules which we recommend as a supplement to promote bone health, for mood & neurological applications, to address inflammatory conditions and provide support against viral infections including coronavirus and variants.

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Super Immune Capsules: CBD & CBG w/ raw acids CBDa : CBGa | #241

●      #241 - 30 capsules - $75 ON Sale! $60.00

●      Ratio: CBD:CBDa : CBG:CBGa

Potency: 25mg per capsule ( CBD:CBDa : CBG:CBGa )

Total Cannabinoids: 750mg ( 25mg x 30 capsules)