What is HHCH, what are its effects and risks?

  • 23 April 2024 09:08:58
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What is HHCH and how is it formed?

Content

  • Chemical structure and stereoisomers
  • Effects
  • Risks
  • Are products with HHCH safe?
  • Legal status of HHCH
  • Conclusion

What is HHCH and how is it produced?

HHCH is hexahydrocannabichlorohexol. Unlike many other cannabinoids such as CBD , CBN, CBG and THC that occur naturally in the plant, HHCH is not found in hemp.

It was first synthesized in 1942 by American chemist Roger Adams, who in his research suggested that HHCH was more potent than the pentyl and heptyl homologues or the unsaturated analogue THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

HHCH is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid derivative that requires professional laboratory production. It is formed by hydrogenating THCH (tetrahydrocannabinol) distillate and converting it to HHCH.

This compound is a thick oil that is very viscous. It becomes more plastic when heated and changes color when oxidized, without losing its effectiveness and without undergoing chemical transformations.


Chemical structure and stereoisomers

HHCH has the molecular formula C22H34O2. Since it is a hydrogenated compound like H4CBD and HHC, it consists of 2 different stereoisomers, that is, the molecules:

  • 9(R)-hexahydrocannabihexol, also 9β-hexahydrocannabihexol, 9β-HHCH, 9(R)-HHCH
  • 9(S)-hexahydrocannabihexol, also 9α-hexahydrocannabihexol, 9α-HHCH, 9(S)-HHCH

The molecule (9R) binds very effectively to CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), causing a psychoactive effect, while 9(S ) is considered an inactive component.

Based on this, let's quote a 2023 study that looked at the cannabinoid HHC and concluded that the 9(R) isomer binds with higher affinity to CB1 (nervous system, in the brain) and CB2 (in the immune system, digestive tract and others) organs) and that the activity of 9(R) is almost identical to that of THC, whereas 9(S) binds strongly in cannabinoid receptor assays but shows reduced activity in functional assays.


Effects

HHCH is believed to have psychoactive effects similar to THC. The effects are reported to be milder than HHCP but longer lasting compared to HHC .

There is also information that its potency is estimated to be 10-15 times higher than THC, and that it is slightly superior to THCH in its effects. Since Roger Adams already suggested in his research that HHCP is more potent than the pentyl and heptyl homolog or unsaturated analogue of THC, it can be assumed that HHCH has a strong psychoactive effect on the body. However, new relevant studies are needed to draw conclusions.

Like other cannabinoids, HHCH interacts with the ECS in the body. Initial evidence suggests that HHCH has a higher affinity for CB1 receptors, hence producing psychoactive effects, and also interacts with CB2 receptors, which help modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. The effects will also depend on the composition of the product, or the ratio of 9(R) to 9(S) isomers in the product.

Like other cannabinoids with psychoactive properties, HHCH can be expected to impact perception by inducing feelings of euphoria or relaxation, as well as relieving symptoms of pain and inflammation.

It should be emphasized that the effects of HHCH can last from 2 to 8 hours, so it is important to use it responsibly and in moderation. It is under no circumstances recommended to drive a car or operate any machinery after taking it.


Risks

There is scientific consensus that natural cannabinoids are safe for medical and recreational use, while the purity and safety of synthetic cannabinoids often cannot be proven.

Unknown substances such as unnatural isomers, residual solvents and other unrecognized compounds have been found in some synthetically produced products, making them potentially unsafe for human consumption.

Synthetic cannabinoids are man-made cannabinoids. The legal definition is: 'any material, compound, mixture or preparation containing a substance and having a similar effect to a naturally occurring cannabinoid and produced artificially'.

Examples of (semi-)synthetic cannabinoids include HHC , CBG9 , THCB, THCO, THCP, THCH, THCJD and others.

These compounds can be much more powerful than natural cannabinoids, increasing the potential risk of overdose and intoxication. In general, the risks of using synthetic cannabinoids may include negative psychological effects such as panic, paranoia, anxiety and hallucinations.


Other possible side effects include:

  • Rapid heartbeat.
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue and drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Red eyes

At this time, it is possible that other as yet undetected side effects may occur. The intensity of side effects will depend on several factors such as health status, age, body proportions, metabolism, user tolerance, and dosage and route of administration.


Are products with HHCH safe?

Since the research and development of HHCH is in its early stages, it highlights the need for rigorous, controlled, and peer-reviewed studies to evaluate the effects, safety profile, and potential medical applications.

At this point, it can be quite difficult to know what the actual cannabinoid content of licensed products is. Additionally, unless a retailer provides third party laboratory testing analysis, it is impossible to determine whether the products are free of unwanted substances such as pesticides, solvents and heavy metals.

This issue also stems from complex cannabinoid legislation around the world. It is not easy to assess the safety of products when most countries currently do not have laws regulating these substances, including the Czech Republic. This means there is no legislation to ensure safety, quality and legality.

If you are considering purchasing any products containing cannabinoids, always pay attention to the following information:

Lab Test Results: Third party lab reports provide objective data on product purity, regulatory compliance (THC maximum limit), safety and more.

Ingredients: Ensure that the product is free of inappropriate additives, fillers and toxins.

Source of Cannabis: The best source is fresh, locally grown cannabis that is free of pesticides and herbicides.

Company reputation: find out about the manufacturer/seller. An established and reliable company that has been in the cannabis market for several years and has received positive reviews for its products and services.


Although marijuana remains illegal in many parts of the world and has been stigmatized for decades, the US Farm Bill removed cannabis (containing up to 0.3% THC) from the list of controlled substances, thereby legalizing all cannabis derivatives.

This has made growing, processing and selling cannabis products a legal activity, but some states may have stricter regulations for the sale and use of these products.

Legislation on cannabis-derived cannabinoids can change quickly, as we saw in the Czech Republic, where HHC , HHCO and THCP were temporarily banned in early March.

HHC is legal under the Farm Bill, but can be expected to fall into a legal gray area due to its psychoactive properties.


Conclusion

HHCH is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid derivative synthesized by Roger Adams in 1942. Production requires only a professional laboratory procedure, HHCH is produced by hydrogenating THCH distillate and converting it into HHCH.

It consists of 2 stereoisomers, 9(R) and 9(S), and the ratio of these molecules affects the potency and strength of the product.

Like other psychoactive cannabinoids, it can affect perception or cause feelings of euphoria or relaxation.

The cannabis market already includes HHCH vape pens, vaporization cartridges and liquids, oils, distillates, flower and hash. Users should approach HHCH products with caution and consider all risks before purchasing. There are currently no scientific studies to evaluate the safety of this substance.

These types of compounds can be much more potent than natural cannabinoids, increasing the potential risk of overdose and intoxication.

When purchasing any cannabis products, always choose trusted and trusted companies whose products are tested by an independent laboratory.

 
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