CBDV vs. CBD: How Are They Different?

By: Katelyn Manuel

PUBLISHED: December 17, 2024 UPDATED: December 17, 2024

An R&R Organic Full Spectrum CBD tincture placed on a marble stone

Thanks to its potential therapeutic benefits, CBD is a popular name in health and wellness circles. However, a lesser-known cannabinoid called CBDV is gaining attention for similar reasons.

While it shares similarities with CBD, CBDV has distinct properties that make it a promising area of research in the cannabis industry. This article focuses on CBDV and current research on its effects and potential applications.

Key Takeaways

CBDV and CBD are non-psychoactive cannabinoids with unique therapeutic properties, but CBDV is less common and less studied than CBD.
CBD is widely used for anxiety, pain, inflammation, and epilepsy, while CBDV shows promise in managing seizures, autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and inflammatory conditions.
CBD is abundant and widely available in various products, while CBDV is rarer, with emerging options in isolates, tinctures, and specific cannabis strains.

What Is CBDV?

CBDV (cannabidivarin) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis. It is structurally similar to CBD but with a shorter side chain, meaning it has a slightly different chemical structure.

This structural difference may contribute to CBDV's unique effects on the body, although more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action.

How Is CBDV Produced?

CBDV is naturally produced by cannabis plants, mainly by strains bred to contain higher levels of this cannabinoid. It is typically found in lower concentrations compared to CBD and THC.

For research or product development purposes, CBDV can be extracted from cannabis using various methods, such as CO2 extraction or solvent extraction. The extracted CBDV is then purified and isolated from other cannabinoids and compounds.

Companies are also exploring synthetic production methods for CBDV, which could help increase its availability for research and commercial purposes.

Effects of CBDV

Research on CBDV's effects is still in the early stages, but preclinical studies and limited human trials suggest it may have several potential therapeutic applications.

One area of interest is its potential anticonvulsant properties. Animal studies have shown that CBDV may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures, making it a possible candidate for managing epilepsy and other seizure disorders.

CBDV has also been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Preclinical research suggests it may help reduce inflammation and pain in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and neuropathic pain conditions.

Additionally, CBDV has shown promise in managing autism spectrum disorders. A small clinical trial found that CBDV was well-tolerated and may even help improve certain symptoms associated with autism, such as repetitive behaviors and social functioning.

What Is CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is a well-known cannabis/hemp cannabinoid. Unlike THC—the most abundant cannabis cannabinoid—CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not get you high or alter your perception.

Pharmacologically, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a neuromodulatory network of receptors and neurotransmitters that helps regulate various functions such as sleep, appetite, pain, and immune response.

As such, CBD can help support ECS functioning and promote balance and well-being.

CBD's Popularity and Availability

CBD has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits and versatility. CBD products are available in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, gummies, topicals, and pet products.

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived CBD in the United States, making it more widely accessible. However, regulations and availability may vary by state, so it is important to check your local laws before purchasing CBD products.

Currently, CBD is popularly used to help manage stress, anxiety, pain, inflammation, and sleep issues. While more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential applications, anecdotal evidence and preliminary studies suggest that it may be a promising natural alternative for various health concerns.

Differences Between CBDV and CBD

While CBDV and CBD share some similarities, they also have notable differences that set them apart. Here is a closer look at how these two cannabinoids compare in terms of chemical structure, concentration in cannabis plants, and potential therapeutic applications.

Chemical Structure

CBDV and CBD have similar chemical structures but with one key difference. CBDV has a propyl (3-carbon) side chain, while CBD has a pentyl (5-carbon) side chain. This variation may contribute to how these cannabinoids distinctly interact with the body and other receptor systems.

Concentration in Cannabis Plants

CBD is one of the most abundant cannabis cannabinoids, particularly in hemp varieties. In contrast, CBDV is typically present in much lower concentrations. Some rare cannabis strains, such as Medical Mass and Euphoria, contain higher levels of CBDV, but these are not as widely available as high-CBD strains.

Research and Clinical Applications

Although research on CBDV is still in its early stages, scientists are actively exploring its potential therapeutic applications.

As early preclinical studies suggest that CBDV may have anticonvulsant properties, it may be a promising candidate for managing epilepsy and other seizure disorders. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects may help manage inflammatory conditions like IBD and neuropathic pain.

In the realm of neurological disorders, CBDV continues to garner attention for its potential benefits for autism spectrum disorders (ASD). A small clinical trial found that CBDV was well-tolerated and may help improve certain ASD-related symptoms.

Comparatively, CBD has been extensively studied for its beneficial effects on a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, chronic pain, and sleep disorders. Therefore, as interest in minor cannabinoids grows, more studies will likely investigate their therapeutic value and potential applications.

Similarities Between CBDV and CBD

While CBDV and CBD have distinct differences, they also share some notable similarities that make them promising therapeutic agents.

Non-Psychoactive Properties

One of the prominent similarities between CBDV and CBD is that they are both non-psychoactive. This means that they do not induce the "high" typically associated with cannabis. This makes them appealing to users seeking the health benefits of cannabis without intoxication.

Potential Therapeutic Benefits

Both CBDV and CBD show promise for application in various therapeutic areas. Though research is limited, preclinical studies highlight CBDV’s therapeutic properties. Similarly, CBD is widely popular for its beneficial effects on anxiety, chronic pain, and epilepsy.

Moreover, CBDV and CBD may have overlapping therapeutic benefits that make them potential candidates for managing neurological disorders like autism spectrum disorders and epilepsy.

As more studies are conducted, researchers will uncover additional shared benefits between these two cannabinoids.

Interaction with the Endocannabinoid System

Another similarity between CBDV and CBD is their interaction with the ECS. The ECS is a network of receptors, enzymes, and endogenous cannabinoids that help regulate various physiological and biological processes, including mood, sleep, appetite, and immune function.

CBDV and CBD interact with the ECS, although they may have different affinities for specific receptors. For example, CBD has a low affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors but also interacts with other receptors, such as TRPV1 and serotonin receptors.

Similarly, CBDV has been shown to modulate the activity of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, which regulate pain, inflammation, and other physiological processes.

Benefits of CBDV

A dropper is placed on a white glass cup containing some yellow liquid

While research on CBDV is limited, the cannabinoid has shown promise in several application areas. Here are some of its potential benefits for managing various health conditions.

Potential for Treating Epilepsy and Seizures

One of the most promising research areas for CBDV is its anticonvulsant properties. Preclinical studies show that it may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in animal models of epilepsy.

Indeed, a study found that CBDV significantly reduced seizure severity and mortality in a mouse model of Dravet syndrome, a rare and severe form of childhood epilepsy.

These initial findings suggest that CBDV may be a valuable addition to the range of treatments available for epilepsy and other seizure disorders.

Reducing Inflammation and Pain

CBDV has also been studied for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. A 2022 study highlighted evidence supporting CBDV's ability to reduce inflammation and pain in various animal model pathologies, including IBD, neuropathic pain, and arthritis.

The study suggested that CBDV may exert its anti-inflammatory effects through several mechanisms, such as modulating the activity of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels and interacting with the ECS.

Since inflammation and pain are common symptoms in many chronic health conditions, CBDV's potential in this area could have far-reaching implications for patient care.

Improving Symptoms in Autism Spectrum Disorders

CBDV’s potential benefits in managing symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are also worth highlighting.

A 2019 clinical trial investigating the effects of CBDV on 34 children with ASD found that it was well-tolerated and could help improve certain ASD-related symptoms, such as repetitive behaviors and social functioning.

While larger trials are needed to confirm these findings, the initial results suggest that CBDV may be a promising therapeutic option for individuals with ASD, offering a potential alternative to existing therapies.

Neuroprotective Properties

In addition to its potential therapeutic applications, CBDV has also been studied for its neuroprotective properties. Neuroprotection refers to the ability of a substance to protect brain cells from damage caused by injury, disease, or aging.

A 2018 study found that CBDV exhibited neuroprotective effects in a mouse model of Rett syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects brain development.

The study found that CBDV treatment improved motor coordination and reduced neurological deficits in the mice, suggesting that it may have potential as a treatment for Rett syndrome and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

How Does CBDV Work in the Body?

CBDV interacts with the ECS and other receptor systems to produce therapeutic effects. Thus far, scientists have identified two ways this cannabinoid may work in the body.

Interaction with TRP Receptors

CBDV interacts with transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, which regulate various physiological processes, like pain perception, inflammation, and temperature sensation.

In particular, CBDV may modulate the activity of TRPV1, TRPV2, and TRPA1 receptors, which could explain its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

By binding to these receptors, CBDV may help reduce pain and inflammation in inflammatory conditions. This interaction may also contribute to CBDV's neuroprotective properties since TRP receptors regulate neuronal function and survival.

Modulating GABA Signaling

Another way CBDV works in the body is by modulating the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors. GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, and it plays a crucial role in regulating neuronal excitability and maintaining balance in brain function.

Research suggests CBDV may enhance GABA signaling, contributing to its anticonvulsant and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects. By increasing GABA activity, CBDV helps reduce seizure frequency and severity in epilepsy and other seizure disorders.

Additionally, enhancing GABA signaling may promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, making CBDV a promising candidate for managing stress-related disorders.

Is CBDV Legal?

CBDV's legal status is similar to that of CBD but with some nuances. Like CBD, CBDV is not explicitly listed as a controlled substance under federal law. However, the legality of CBDV can be somewhat ambiguous due to the lack of specific regulations addressing this cannabinoid.

The Farm Bill legalized hemp and hemp-derived products, including CBD, as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. While CBDV is not mentioned in the Farm Bill, it is generally considered legal if derived from hemp and meets the same THC threshold.

It is important to note that state laws regarding CBDV may vary. Some states have more restrictive policies on cannabis and its derivatives, so check your local regulations before purchasing or using CBDV products.

When shopping for CBDV products, buy from reputable brands that provide third-party lab test results to ensure their offerings' quality, purity, and legal compliance. As with any cannabis-derived product, do your research and purchase from trustworthy sources to guarantee you are getting a safe and legal product.

Where Can You Find CBDV Products?

Although CBDV is not as widely available as CBD, there are a growing number of options for those interested in trying it.

Availability of CBDV Isolates and Extracts

Currently, CBDV is most commonly available in the form of isolates and extracts. These highly concentrated products are used by researchers and product formulators to create CBDV-infused items or to study its effects.

Some specialty cannabinoid suppliers offer CBDV isolates and extracts for purchase online, although these products may be intended for research or manufacturing purposes rather than direct consumer use.

While we may not have CBDV isolates yet, our Multifunctional CBD Tinctures will not disappoint. Our versatile tinctures easily fit into any lifestyle and give you all the multifunctional benefits of CBD when you take it consistently, especially daily.*

Our tinctures come loaded with 11 cannabinoids, including CBDV, to help bring balance to your body and mind so you can live without pain, stress, or sleeplessness.*

Emerging CBDV Consumer Products

As interest in CBDV grows, more consumer-friendly products are emerging on the market. Some CBD brands are beginning to offer CBDV-infused oils, tinctures, and capsules, often in combination with other cannabinoids like CBD and CBG.

Indeed, our Multifunctional CBD Gummies are enriched with CBD, CBDV, and 5 other cannabinoids to improve wellness and get relief from symptoms associated with pain, anxiety, and sleep issues.*

As the name aptly suggests, these gummies are designed to deliver multifunctional benefits that can improve your life.*

You may also find CBDV in cannabis strains bred to contain higher levels of this cannabinoid. These strains can be purchased at licensed dispensaries in states where cannabis is legal for medical or recreational use.

As with any cannabis-derived product, consult a healthcare professional before incorporating CBDV into your wellness routine, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking medications.

The Future of CBDV Research and Product Development

Thanks to lenient cannabis laws, scientists are exploring CBDV’s potential to address conditions that may not be effectively targeted by CBD alone. For example, ongoing studies are investigating CBDV's effects on autism spectrum disorders, epilepsy, and inflammatory conditions like IBD.

Continued research and clinical trials will help uncover the full extent of CBDV's therapeutic potential and determine optimal dosing and formulations for specific conditions.

Researchers will also provide valuable insights into how CBDV interacts with other cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC, potentially leading to the development of novel combination therapies.

Final Thoughts

As evidence supporting CBDV's benefits grows, more CBDV-infused products will hit the market. These may include tinctures, capsules, and topicals specifically formulated to target a wide range of health conditions, like anxiety, pain, and inflammation.

R&R CBD offers a range of high-quality cannabinoid products, including CBD and emerging CBDV options, to support your wellness journey. Our commitment to transparency and third-party testing ensures you receive safe and effective solutions tailored to your needs.

Explore our selection of CBD products to find the right fit for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between CBD and CBDV?

CBD and CBDV differ in their chemical structure and potential effects. While both are cannabis cannabinoids, CBD is more widely studied for its therapeutic effects, while CBDV is less common and less well-understood.

What Is CBDV Cannabinoid Good for?

CBDV is being explored for its potential benefits in treating seizures, autism spectrum disorders, and nausea. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties.

Which Type of CBD Is the Strongest?

The strongest type of CBD is full-spectrum CBD, which contains a wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Full-spectrum CBD products often include small amounts of THC, which may enhance the overall effects through the entourage effect.

Is CBDV Better than CBD?

Whether CBDV is better than CBD depends on the condition being treated. CBD is widely used for anxiety, pain, and inflammation, while CBDV is showing promise in treating specific neurological conditions. They serve different purposes, so none is inherently better.

Is CBDV the Same as THCV?

CBDV is not the same as THCV. THCV has a different chemical structure and is known for its potential appetite-suppressing and psychoactive effects in higher doses. CBDV does not produce psychoactive effects and is more focused on neurological and inflammatory conditions.