What is H4CBD and how does it differ from CBD, HHC, and THC?
Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is a cannabinoid derived from the hemp plant. It is valued for its numerous health benefits and is often used as a natural alternative to conventional medications.
H4CBD is an abbreviation for "Hexahydrocannabinol-CBD," and it is a special form of CBD. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at H4CBD. We will provide you with insights into its chemical structure, production, advantages and disadvantages, legality, purchasing options, and user experiences.
Back to School - Chemical Structure and Production of H4CBD
Before we delve into the advantages and disadvantages of H4CBD and compare it with CBD, HHC, and THC, let's start with a brief scientific excursion.
As the long and complicated name Hexahydrocannabinol-CBD suggests, it has something to do with "Hydro," meaning water. H4CBD is a variant of CBD produced through a chemical reaction called hydrogenation.
In this process, hydrogen atoms are bonded to a molecule to reduce it. In this case, CBD is hydrogenated to produce H4CBD. The result is a more stable molecule with a longer half-life than CBD. This means that the concentration of the CBD component in H4CBD is significantly higher than in other CBD products. Consequently, the effect is more intense and lasts longer.
Particularly for people who use CBD for pain relief, such as in arthritis, H4CBD becomes a real alternative to conventional medications.
It is also worth mentioning the THC content in the new hydrogenated cannabinoid. Since the effect is significantly more effective compared to "normal" CBD products, it is also assumed that the, albeit small, THC content shows a noticeable effect. But more on that later when we look at the effects of H4CBD.
Effects of H4CBD on the CB Receptors?
The research on H4CBD, including its effects, is still in its infancy. And this, despite the fact that the hydrogenated cannabinoid was discovered back in the 1940s. However, there are already some user reports and studies that depict effects on pain relief and inhibition of inflammation in the body.
What scientists have also discovered is the following: While CBD generally acts on the CB2 receptors, H4CBD exerts its effects more on the CB1 receptors. These are the ones that also react to THC.
Because H4CBD targets different receptors than regular CBD, the well-known claims that it is more potent should be taken with caution. It is a cannabinoid and therefore unfolds in a similar way. However, the effect on the CB1 receptors should be kept in mind.
Whether H4CBD also conveys a high feeling due to targeting the CB1 receptors, you will learn further below when we compare it with THC.
H4CBD Compared to Other Cannabinoids
How Does H4CBD Compare to Regular CBD Products?
Let's take a closer look at the comparison to other CBD products. H4CBD has similar health benefits to regular CBD since it is still the same cannabinoid. However, due to its altered chemical structure, it has some advantages over CBD.
For example, H4CBD is more stable than CBD and has a longer half-life, meaning it remains effective in the body for a longer time. It also has higher bioavailability, meaning it is absorbed by the body faster and achieves a higher effect.
Comparison with THC - Does H4CBD Possibly Cause a High?
As already mentioned, regular CBD has no psychoactive effect and therefore differs significantly from THC. THC is the psychoactive cannabinoid found in the hemp plant and is responsible for the well-known effect of marijuana.
With H4CBD, the situation is somewhat different. As already mentioned, it acts more on the CB1 receptors. THC also acts on these, so it is quite possible that H4CBD causes a high.
Additionally, it is assumed that H4CBD contains a small amount of THC. This can naturally increase the likelihood of a high feeling. Although this THC content is so low that it does not exceed legal limits, it must be noted that H4CBD may appear on a drug test for THC. Furthermore, you should not operate vehicles or machinery under the influence of H4CBD.
Since the effect is not really researched yet and everyone reacts differently to CBD, THC, etc., you should exercise caution, possibly consult a doctor, and start with a particularly low dosage.
Comparison: Aren't HHC and H4CBD Somehow the Same?
H4CBD is sometimes confused with Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), another variant of CBD. HHC is produced through a similar hydrogenation reaction, but the chemical structure of HHC is different.
HHC has a similar effect to THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid responsible for the high feeling associated with marijuana consumption. However, this effect is significantly less. In this sense, one could attribute a similar effect to HHC and H4CBD. Only in terms of the relaxing effect of both CBDs can it be said that H4CBD can exhibit a significantly more effective reaction.
6 Benefits of H4CBD
Longer half-life - Due to its chemical structure, H4CBD is more stable than CBD and has a longer half-life. This allows it to remain effective in the body for a longer period.
Higher bioavailability - H4CBD has higher bioavailability, meaning it is absorbed faster by the body and achieves a greater effect.
More relaxation, less stress - Like other types of CBD, H4CBD is known for its relaxing effects and helps reduce stress.
Pain relief and anti-inflammatory - H4CBD has similar health benefits as CBD, including the ability to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and combat anxiety.
Better sleep - There are some reports that H4CBD helps improve sleep quality. Fall asleep faster, sleep better, feel more rested in the morning.
Smoking alternative - To distance themselves from nicotine, many people use H4CBD flowers or hash as an alternative to smoking.
Does H4CBD also have side effects?
Although H4CBD has only a slight psychoactive effect and is more relaxing, it can still have some unwanted side effects. This is especially true when taken in high doses.
Possible side effects of H4CBD include nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. As with all cannabinoids, you should consult your doctor before taking H4CBD, especially if you are already taking other medications or have a serious illness.
Is H4CBD legal in Germany?
In Germany, H4CBD is currently considered legal. Since the contained THC does not exceed the maximum allowed value of 0.2%, it is classified as legal. However, the hydrogenated cannabinoid can have psychoactive effects. Therefore, you should not drive.
The legality of H4CBD, however, depends on the laws in the respective country or region. Before buying or consuming H4CBD, you should inform yourself about the laws in your area.
Regarding detectability in a drug test, it should be noted that some tests could indeed detect the, albeit small, amount of THC. If you have to take tests regularly for your job or have other concerns about detectability, we recommend you to resort to other CBD products.
What H4CBD products are available for purchase?
H4CBD is currently not as widespread as CBD. In our shop, you will now find several new H4CBD products to try out:
H4CBD Flowers
The specially cultivated hemp flowers contain the higher CBD content known for H4CBD with a low THC content. To start with a low dosage, H4CBD flowers are ideal.
H4CBD Vapes
If you know our shop, you know that we offer a variety of vape flavors in high quality and are known for our vapes. This is no different with our H4CBD Vapes. See for yourself!
H4CBD Hash
Also interesting is our qualitative H4CBD hash. It is also perfect for putting the new hydrogenated cannabinoid to the test.
Summary
H4CBD is a new variant of CBD that is produced through hydrogenation. It has similar health benefits to CBD but with a longer half-life and higher bioavailability.Compared to THC, H4CBD has only a slight psychoactive effect, making it more comparable to HHC. It is a promising alternative to CBD for people who need a higher dose for medical reasons.
However, before consuming H4CBD, you should definitely speak with your doctor and also inform yourself about the laws in your region.
