Cannabidivarin (CBDV) is a naturally occurring, non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBDV does not produce intoxicating effects. While sharing structural similarities with cannabidiol (CBD), CBDV is a minor cannabinoid, typically present in smaller quantities than more abundant cannabinoids like THC and CBD. This has historically made its extraction directly from the plant challenging and costly.
How CBDV Interacts with the Body
CBDV interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling network regulating mood, pain, and immune response. It acts as an agonist of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, including TRPA1, TRPV1, and TRPV2 receptors, involved in pain perception and inflammation. Studies indicate CBDV can activate and desensitize these channels, potentially reducing neuronal hyperexcitability.
CBDV also influences non-ECS pathways. It may function as an inverse agonist of GPR6 and an antagonist of GPR55, receptors influencing neurological and immune responses. Furthermore, CBDV might inhibit the production of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) by targeting the enzyme responsible for its synthesis. While CBDV shows low affinity for CB1 receptors, associated with psychoactive effects, its binding affinity for CB2 receptors, important for immune function and inflammation, is still debated.
Potential Biological Effects
CBDV has shown promise as an anticonvulsant, with research indicating its ability to reduce seizure frequency and severity. Early studies found CBDV significantly reduced various seizure types and prevented tonic-clonic convulsions in preclinical models. This effect is thought to involve the desensitization of TRPV1 receptors, which play a role in mediating epilepsy in the hippocampus.
Beyond its anticonvulsant properties, CBDV is being investigated for other therapeutic applications. It has demonstrated anti-nausea properties in early studies. Preclinical research also suggests CBDV may possess anti-inflammatory potential, showing intestinal anti-inflammatory effects in models of ulcerative colitis.
CBDV’s influence on the endocannabinoid system and neuroinflammation also suggests potential benefits for neurological conditions. It has been explored for its ability to ameliorate autism-like behaviors and improve short-term memory deficits in preclinical models. Research also suggests CBDV could reduce motor impairments and cognitive deficits in models of Rett syndrome, a severe neurological disorder. It has also been investigated in clinical trials for epilepsy in girls with Rett syndrome.
Safety Profile and Known Side Effects
Current research suggests that CBDV is generally well-tolerated, with a favorable safety profile similar to other non-intoxicating cannabinoids like CBD. Studies, including a phase 1 clinical trial involving children with Rett syndrome, indicated CBDV was safe and well-tolerated. No serious adverse events were reported as related to CBDV in this trial.
However, some side effects have been observed, though typically mild. Mild gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, and changes in appetite or weight have been reported in studies involving cannabinoids like CBD, which shares structural similarities with CBDV. In the Rett syndrome study, hypersomnolence (excessive sleepiness) and drooling were identified as possibly related to CBDV. While research is ongoing, CBDV does not induce significant motor side effects often seen with other anti-epileptic drugs.
The State of CBDV Research
The scientific understanding of CBDV is still developing, with much of the existing evidence derived from preclinical studies. These include cell-based and animal models, which have provided initial insights into its potential biological effects. Such studies have been instrumental in identifying CBDV’s anticonvulsant, anti-nausea, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Human clinical trials are underway or in their early phases to further investigate and confirm these preliminary findings. CBDV is being actively developed as an experimental compound for treating seizures, with ongoing studies for epilepsy and autism spectrum disorder. More robust, large-scale human studies are needed to establish definitive therapeutic applications and fully elucidate its long-term safety and efficacy.