High THCV weed strains for focus and energy

thcv strains

The modern weed market is filled with endless variety. From sativas with weird strain names to minor cannabinoids like CBN and CBG, the options can feel overwhelming. THCV is one compound gaining attention thanks to its energizing effects and potential benefits, namely appetite suppression. With more people hoping to get their hands on this popular cannabinoid, several THCV strains have come into the spotlight.

RELATED: The 12 best Kush strains money can buy

THCV is similar to THC in molecular structure but far different in terms of its overall effects. The compound interacts with CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, meaning it’s less apt to get you high (although every person is different). 

In high doses, THCV may make you feel more focused, and studies show it may even help people lose weight. As word of the compound spreads, demand for THCV strains is higher than ever (no pun intended). 

thcv strains
There are several THCV cannabis varieties on the market today. Photo: GreenState Team / Canva

7 THCV strains to try

If you’re seeking out THCV products at the dispensary, these varieties are sure to please. From classic landrace strains to new award-winning varieties, there’s a THCV weed for every preference.

Durban Poison

An old-school African sativa strain, Durban Poison offers an invigorating yet mellow daytime high. The cultivar is known for having abundant THCV levels and an acrid aroma, thanks to its high amount of terpinolene.

Pink Boost Goddess

Pink Boost Goddess has been getting a lot of attention lately. The award-winning 1:1 strain from Emerald Spirit Botanicals put THCV on the map. Several extractors use the variety for carts, concentrates, and edibles in addition to the fluffy flower. The team at ESB specifically bred Pink Boost Goddess to have stable THCV levels, and they have delivered.

Doug’s Varin

Specifically created to have high levels of THCV, Doug’s Varin is a rare sativa strain with potent effects. The genetics are somewhat difficult to confirm, but some online seed banks deduced the parents are Harlequin and Thai landrace.

Garlic Berry

Another 1:1 THC:THCV strain, Garlic Berry is a cross of Urkle Kush and Auto Durban THCV. Developed by Oregon-based GTR Seeds, the strain is great for people who need to be productive, focused, and medicated all at the same time.

RELATED: This new weed drink is giving espresso martini vibes

Tangie

One of the most popular cannabis strains of the late 2010s, Tangie is a cross of California Orange and Skunk #1. The latter is known to have high THCV content, and while Tangie is more of a THC variety, the trace THCV should not be discounted.

Jack the Ripper

Another high THCV strain, Jack the Ripper is a lemon-pine sativa offering a creative, euphoric buzz. Created by famed breeder Subcool, this variety has a classic Haze lineage and extra-resinous buds.

Pineapple Purps

Pineapple Purps is a sativa variety with heavy tropical perfume and social effects. These cannabis plants have a tendency to produce high levels of THCV, with some growers reporting a 3:1 ratio.

thcv strains
The majority of THCV strains are sativa-leaning. Photo: GreenState Team / Canva

THCV strains – frequently asked questions

Want to know more about the famous THCV cannabinoid? Here are some of the most common questions.

Does THCV get you high?

THCV is similar to THC but with very different effects, and everyone responds differently. While the compound likely won’t offer the same potent high as THC, it’s still important to start low and go slow.

Does the Girl Scout Cookies strain have THCV?

Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) is thought to have trace levels of THCV thanks to its F1 Durban parent. However, it’s not considered a high THCV strain.

RELATED: Get too high? These products can help

What does THCV feel like?

THCV is known for its energetic, focused effects. It does not offer the typical high of THC but is reminiscent of sativa strains.

What is THCV good for?

THCV is a great daytime smoke; users report it’s perfect for running errands, doing chores, or creative work. It’s also thought to be an appetite suppressant and is often used by people with diabetes to help curb food cravings.

Does THCV make you sleepy?

THCV is an energizing compound and should not have sedative effects. However, every person is different in terms of how they react to THCV.

THCV strains – the hot new cannabinoid

With people using cannabis for a wide range of use cases, demand for minor cannabinoids continues to grow. THCV is gaining popularity thanks to its uplifting, focused effects—the fact that it doesn’t give you the munchies is definitely a plus. 

As more is learned about the compound, it’s likely consumers will see a lot more THCV strains on dispensary menus in the near future. And while THCV may not get you overtly high, most strains have THC in them, too. The bottom line is to be sure to tread lightly when trying the compound for the first time.

rachelle gordon

Rachelle Gordon is a cannabis journalist, Emerald Cup judge, Budist critic, and editor of GreenState.com. She began her weed writing journey in 2015 and has been featured in High Times, CannabisNow, Beard Bros, MG, Skunk, and many others. Rachelle currently splits her time between Minneapolis and Oakland; her favorite cannabis cultivars include Silver Haze and Tangie. Follow Rachelle on Instagram @rachellethewriter