CBDV vs. CBD: Key Similarities and Differences You
Need to Know
CBDV, also known as cannabidivarin, is among the unique cannabinoids
found in the cannabis plant. It is almost similar to CBD in terms of structural
composition and properties, but they also have differences. In 1969,
researchers discovered the CBDV compound in addition to other well-known
active cannabinoids CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). But
scientists started to study the analgesic properties of CBDV only in the
recent past, around 2010. Experts revealed that it has powerful therapeutic
properties compared to other cannabinoids.
This article discusses the similarities and differences between CBDV and
CBD. You will also learn the health benefits of CBDV and the disorders it
helps treat.
What Is CBDV?
Before we proceed, it is imperative to understand what CBDV is. CBDV is an
abbreviation of cannabidivarin, a non-psychoactive compound in the
cannabis herb. It does not have intoxicating properties like the THC element.
This compound is mainly found in the indica strains since they contain
minimal THC levels.
Several studies reveal that CBDV has anti-inflammatory properties that help
manage pain and inflammation. It is also used in treating seizure-related
conditions.
What Is CBD?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is one of the active cannabinoids in
cannabis. It is derived from the hemp variant of the cannabis plant and has
therapeutic effects. Unlike the THC compound, it doesn’t produce high
feelings.
Many health experts use CBD-infused products as an alternative medication
today. CBD is clinically proven effective for conditions such as seizures,
arthritis, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and pain-related conditions.
Similar Health Benefits and Properties of CBDV and CBD
Over the recent past, research on CBD and CBDV health benefits has been
quite promising. Several studies have gained immense support from large
pharmaceutical companies and even the US government.
However, most studies on CBDV are still novel and have not yet reached the
clinical trials phase. Hence, a majority of research studies are preclinical and
performed on animals or in lab conditions. But CBDV research is already
showing great potential in the medical industry.
It is imperative to note that CBD and CBDV are non-psychoactive, so they
don’t have intoxicating effects. Let us explore some of the health benefits of
both CBD and CBDV.
Anti-seizure Properties
CBD and CBDV have anticonvulsant properties, making the compounds great
remedies for treating epilepsy and other seizure-related conditions. Even
though this property is still under investigation, it is widely known that CBD
and CBDV can reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures.
Alleviation of Nausea
Several clinical studies have shown that CBD and CBDV have pronounced
effects on nausea. Scientists performed a study on rats in 2013, revealing
these compounds’ potential to lessen such symptoms.
Analgesic Properties
CBD is widely known for its analgesic effects on users. It helps manage pain
for people suffering from chronic illnesses such as cancer, arthritis,
migraines, and insomnia. Scientists are also investigating the potential
ability of CBDV to alleviate nerve pains.
Anxiety Relief
One of the major effects of CBD and CBDV is helping with anxiety disorders.
Many people with anxiety are now using CBD-infused products to treat the
condition. Even CBDV is currently being used in several treatment plans due
to its similar effects on users. The two compounds also help in treating
depression.
Anti-Oxidative Cell Protection
Oxidative stress is a state in the human body resulting in cell imbalance.
Oxidative stress emerges as free radicals accumulate with age and might
damage the cells, causing chronic allergies and diseases.
Several studies revealed that CBD is a powerful anti-oxidant that provides
neuroprotection to the body. Therefore, CBDV also shows potential in
alleviating inflammatory infections and protecting the cells in the nervous
system. This anti-oxidative property prevents ailments such as cancer,
depression, Multiple Sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Differences Between CBD and CBDV
There are small differences when it comes to comparing CBD and CBDV.
Even though CBD is one of the leading cannabinoids in cannabis studies,
CBDV is following suit. So what are the main differences between these two
compounds?
In terms of molecular structure, CBDV is slightly different. It contains a
propyl chain with three carbon atoms that alter its chemical composition. In
contrast, CBD has a pentyl chain with five carbon atoms, and it is often
known as a propyl cannabinoid.
Another difference is that many cannabis enthusiasts are unaware of the
existence of CBDV as much as CBD. With recent ongoing studies, people are
now getting to know the potential of CBDV effects. In terms of
concentration, CBD is a more prevalent compound in the cannabis plant. In
contrast, CBDV is found in small amounts.
Is CBD Better than CBDV?
As mentioned above, CBD and CBDV are similar in properties and
composition. Only CBDV has a propyl chain and has smaller carbon length.
At the same time, CBD is longer, with five carbon atoms. Keep in mind that
carbon length influences the cannabinoid’s ability to interact with the
receptors in the ECS – endocannabinoid system. Therefore, experts state
that this ability is one of the significant properties of cannabinoid
compounds.
Types of Disorders that CBDV Treats
According to research, there are several health conditions treatable by
CBDV. Most of the studies focused on the compound’s ability to lessen
symptoms in the nervous system. Even though the investigations were
performed on animals, the findings were promising and provided substantial
application directions in the medical sector.
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Researchers performed preclinical investigations that showed the vital role of
CBDV in managing autism spectrum disorder. Even though the studies have
not reached the trial phase, the link reveals that the compound can influence
specific brain processes connected to the disorder.
Neurological Diseases
Using CBDV as a medication can lessen neurological and social disorders
resulting from Rett Syndrome. This disorder affects brain development.
Research on mice revealed that CBDV has potent properties to enhance
memory and motor coordination. It can also regulate the response levels of
the ECS receptors.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
Several studies have revealed that CBDV can promote massive growth of
muscles. It applies to people with DMD disorder and also healthy people.
DMD is a genetic condition that causes progressive degeneration of muscles.
Thus, research shows that CBDV influences certain receptors to enhance
muscle growth.
Cannabis Strains With High CBDV
As stated above, most cannabis plants have small traces of the CBDV
compound. But there are specific strains with high CBDV amounts. These are
found mostly in indica strains from India, Mexico, or Pakistan.
Here are a few CBDV-rich strains you can check out:

CBDV Auto

Royal CBDV

Forbidden V

Pine Walker
Where to Buy CBDV and CBD Products?
You can purchase CBD-infused products in licensed dispensaries or at an
online store. Ensure you select a reliable vendor to avoid buying
substandard products. Equally, if you are looking for CBDV products, you
can research extensively and locate legal stores that sell them. However,
since CBDV is still under clinical investigation, it is better to consult your
health expert before self-medicating. Besides, you will get to know the right
administration and dosage that aligns with your cannabis needs.
Conclusion
CBDV and CBD are among the most beneficial compounds in the cannabis
plant. While CBD is more popular in the medical industry, CBDV also has its
own potential properties. Although CBDV research is still ongoing, a few
findings show that it is a promising cannabinoid in the healthcare sector. In
the near future, the medical cannabis industry might release effective CBDVinfused products that will provide solutions to a wide array of disorders.
The material was prepared by Tia Moskalenko, a cannabis blogger at
AskGrowers and a passionate researcher into the chemistry and effects of
cannabis and its compounds on users. Tia is interested in consumer
education and always shares her findings with the readers to encourage
safe, responsible, and individually tailored CBD consumption.