Cannabigerovarin (CBGV) is a lesser-known phytocannabinoid found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Researchers are exploring the full spectrum of compounds present beyond well-established ones like Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The term “CBGV flower” refers to raw hemp or cannabis material cultivated to contain a higher concentration of this compound. Like many cannabinoids, CBGV is non-intoxicating, meaning its consumption does not produce the euphoric effects associated with THC.
Chemical Identity and Origin
CBGV is chemically defined as a varin-type cannabinoid, structurally similar to Cannabigerol (CBG) but differing in its side chain. It is produced in the glandular trichomes of the cannabis plant through cannabinoid biosynthesis. In the raw flower, CBGV exists predominantly in its acidic form, Cannabigerovarinic acid (CBGVA).
The conversion from acidic CBGVA to neutral CBGV occurs through decarboxylation. This reaction removes a carboxyl group and is typically triggered by exposure to heat or light, such as when the flower is smoked or vaporized. CBGV is naturally a minor cannabinoid, found only in trace amounts in most strains. Specialized breeding and cultivation techniques are necessary to produce flower strains with significantly elevated CBGV levels.
The Role within the Endocannabinoid System
The biological activity of CBGV is mediated through its interaction with the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS), a complex network that helps maintain internal balance. Early in vitro studies suggest that CBGV has an affinity for both the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and type 2 (CB2). CB1 receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more common in immune cells and peripheral tissues.
The precise nature of CBGV’s action at these receptors is still under investigation. Some theories suggest it may act as an inverse agonist or modulator, indirectly influencing the activity of other cannabinoids. CBGV is also believed to interact with non-cannabinoid receptors, such as the Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels. For example, its relative CBG engages with the TRPV1 receptor, which plays a role in pain and inflammation signaling. This interaction with multiple cellular targets suggests that CBGV may regulate various physiological processes without causing psychoactive effects.
Distinguishing CBGV from Related Cannabinoids
The distinction between CBGV and its relative, CBG, lies in a difference in their chemical structures. Cannabinoids are characterized by a side chain; CBGV has a shorter, three-carbon chain, placing it in the “varin” subgroup. In contrast, CBG possesses a longer, five-carbon side chain, making CBGV a propyl homolog of CBG.
This variation in the alkyl side chain influences how the molecule binds to and activates various receptors. This structural difference may result in unique pharmacological properties compared to five-carbon chain cannabinoids like CBG or CBD. CBG is often called the “mother cannabinoid” because its acidic form, CBGA, is the precursor to the acidic forms of CBD and THC. Similarly, CBGVA serves as the precursor to the entire line of varin-type cannabinoids.
Consumption Methods and Availability
CBGV flower can be consumed using the same methods as other cannabis flowers, including smoking, dry-herb vaporization, or extraction into oils or edibles. Applying heat through smoking or vaping is the most direct way to ensure the conversion of acidic CBGVA into the neutral, active CBGV. For users making their own extracts, the flower can be decarboxylated prior to infusion into a carrier oil.
Since CBGV is a minor cannabinoid and relatively new to the commercial market, high-CBGV flower is not as widely available as strains rich in CBD or CBG. Consumers should be aware that the concentration of CBGV can vary significantly, even among specialized strains. Seeking products that provide third-party laboratory testing results is important to verify the actual cannabinoid content before purchase.