It seems like there’s a new cannabinoid coming out every day, I can barely keep up.
The newest one I’ve come across is H4CBD, also known as hydrogenated CBD.
Rumours are that H4CBD is 100 times stronger than CBD, and that it has much stronger effects than CBD.
But what is the truth? Are there any studies done on H4CBD? Is it safe? Is it synthetic? Is it legal?
This article will answer all these questions and more…
What is H4CBD?
Hexahydrocannabidiol, also known as H4CBD or hydrogenated CBD, is a synthesised cannabinoid created by modifying CBD (cannabidiol).
The modification involves adding four hydrogen atoms to a CBD molecule. This converts two carbon-carbon double bonds into single bonds through a process called hydrogenation – similar to the method used to make margarine from vegetable seed oil.
This structural alteration changes the shape and properties of H4CBD, making it distinctly more bioavailable than CBD.
While CBD does not have a direct affinity for CB1 neuroreceptors in the brain, H4CBD is reported to have a higher affinity for these receptors, resulting in increased psychoactive effects when compared with CBD.
What are the effects of H4CBD?
The effects of H4CBD are not fully understood due to limited research.
However, based on available information, we do know that H4CBD is reported to have higher psychoactivity compared to CBD.
Consumers often describe it as feeling somewhat similar to a 2:1 CBD:THC product, with a noticeable uplifting and relaxing effect. While it is not as intoxicating as THC, there is a slight sense of intoxication that you don’t get with just CBD.
The reason for this may be that H4CBD has a higher affinity for the brain’s CB1 neuroreceptors compared to CBD. CB1 receptor activation is thought to play a part in the intoxicating effects of THC.
Being such a new compound, there is a lack of recent research into the specific effects and safety profile of H4CBD. Most of the available information is based on anecdotal reports and older studies.
Is H4CBD safe to consume?
While the effects of cannabinoids can vary widely among individuals, anecdotal reports suggest that H4CBD is safe to consume, with minimal side effects.
Having said that, there is a lack of comprehensive scientific studies on the safety profile, potential side effects, and long-term consequences of consuming H4CBD due to it being a relatively new cannabinoid.
Therefore, most information about H4CBD is based on older studies and anecdotal reports.
The safety of H4CBD products will also depend on the quality and purity of the product, which is why it’s best to purchase H4CBD products from reputable sources that provide lab-tested products and transparent information about their contents.
H4CBD may also interact with medications or other substances a person is taking.
Is H4CBD legal in the UK?
Although H4CBD is not explicitly covered by any legislation, it would appear to be considered legal in the United Kingdom.
This is because it falls outside the remit of two key pieces of legislation that govern the legality of substances like cannabinoids in the UK: the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016.
H4CBD does not fall under the Misuse of Drugs Act, which primarily classifies substances based on their potential harm and misuse. Additionally, as it is considered non-psychoactive, it does not fall under the Psychoactive Substances Act, which was designed to regulate substances producing psychoactive effects.
However, it’s important to note that the legal status of cannabinoids, including H4CBD, can be subject to change, and the cannabinoid industry is under constant scrutiny and regulation changes.
Where to buy H4CBD in the UK
You can buy H4CBD products in the UK from the ever-reliable ICEHeadshop.
They offer a variety of H4CBD products, including gummies, vape pens, and vape liquid.
Additionally, they offer benefits such as Next Day Delivery on all orders and FREE UK Delivery on orders over £35.
View their H4CBD range here.
Is H4CBD synthetic?
Yes, H4CBD is considered a synthetic cannabinoid.
It is created through a chemical process known as hydrogenation, which involves modifying the structure of CBD by adding four hydrogen atoms to specific molecular locations, resulting in the formation of H4CBD.
This process alters the chemical structure and properties of CBD, making H4CBD a synthetic derivative of the natural cannabinoid.
While H4CBD is derived from CBD, it is distinct from the naturally occurring compound and is classified as a synthetic cannabinoid.
Conclusion
H4CBD, also known as hydrogenated CBD, is a synthetic cannabinoid created by modifying CBD through a process called hydrogenation, resulting in a compound with different properties and a reported higher affinity for CB1 neuroreceptors in the brain.
While the effects and safety profile of H4CBD are not fully understood due to limited research, anecdotal reports suggest it is generally safe to consume with minimal side effects.
However, the lack of comprehensive scientific studies and its status as a relatively new cannabinoid mean that its safety and long-term consequences remain uncertain.
In the United Kingdom, H4CBD appears to be considered legal as it does not fall under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 or the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016, primarily due to its non-psychoactive nature.
Have you tried H4CBD? If so, what you think of it?
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