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H4CBD: a hydrogenated version of CBD with promising effects

H4CBD

In recent years, you can't miss CBD: this cannabinoid has spread widely around the world to become the wellness ally of many consumers. While the craze around CBD products continues to grow, a new cannabinoid is appearing and could well compete with CBD! It is H4CBD, still little known in France and Europe. You are a fan of products derived from hemp and you are intrigued by this cannabidiol of synthesis? We reveal you all on the H4CBD.

What is H4CBD?

This name might not mean anything to you yet, but H4CBD is sure to grow in popularity! It might be confused with CBD, but these two cannabinoids are quite different.

A synthetically produced CBD derivative

H4CBD is produced from the hydrogenation of a CBD molecule. This synthesis process is frequently used in the pharmaceutical and food industry. It consists in adding hydrogen atoms to a molecule, so as to modify its effects and its interactions.

In the case of H4CBD, scientists have added 4 hydrogen atoms to the CBD molecule. H4CBD is therefore similar to a synthetic cannabidiol. Contrary to CBD, it is not naturally present in the trichomes of hemp flowers.

Its discovery dates back to the 1940s, in the context of medical research. However, it is now beginning to be democratized among the general public and is integrated into wellness products, in the same way as CBD, HHC, etc.

A molecular structure conducive to action on the central nervous system

The hydrogenation process gives H4CBD a particular molecular structure, which favors its interactions with the CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system. H4CBD binds readily with these receptors located in the central nervous system, causing mild euphoric and psychoactive effects. Thus, H4CBD is known to have effects 100 times more intense than CBD!

H4CBD presumed effects

H4CBD is a recent synthetic cannabinoid that has been the subject of few scientific and clinical studies. It is thus difficult to know with precision its effects on the human organism. We can nevertheless have an outline of it thanks to the few studies and the testimonies of consumers.

A powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory action

The endocannabinoid system plays a key role in the regulation of many bodily functions, including pain and inflammation. Because of its affinity for this system, H4CBD effectively stimulates the receptors, resulting in a powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect.

Tenfold relaxing effects

Cannabinoids are known to calm stress, anxiety and promote relaxation and soothing. CBD is often used for this purpose of relaxation. Its counterpart, H4CBD brings the same relaxing effects in a tenfold way. Remember, it is 100 times more powerful than CBD! That lets imagine the level of relaxation which one can reach by consuming it...

A potential psychoactive effect

The CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system are located in the central nervous system and are directly involved in the psychoactive effects. As noted, H4CBD binds readily with these receptors. Thus, it is possible that H4CBD may cause slight changes in mood and consciousness, or euphoria. However, these psychoactive effects would be less potent than those of THC, the psychotropic substance in cannabis.

A way to relieve autoimmune diseases

H4CBD would have therapeutic virtues and would allow to relieve certain auto-immune diseases. In fact, it acts on the nervous system by reducing inflammation, which is often the cause of disabling diseases: Chohn's disease, multiple sclerosis, lupus, etc. This is a presumed effect: H4CBD should not be used as the only treatment, and its use must be supervised by health professionals.

What is the legislation around H4CBD?

Like all recent cannabinoids, H4CBD is not subject to clear and homogeneous legislation throughout the world. The legal framework that surrounds it could evolve over the years. At the moment, here is what we can learn from the different legislations in force.

The legal framework in France

In France, the law permits the sale and consumption of CBD-based products, provided they are derived from hemp plants containing no more than 0.3% THC. H4CBD, a synthetic derivative of CBD, remains in a legal gray area. No law explicitly prohibits its consumption, nor does any law clearly authorize it.

Legislation in Europe

In the European Union, cannabinoid products are considered food products and are subject to strict quality standards.

The European Commission has set the maximum level of THC at 0.3% in CBD products. Again, the legal framework exists for CBD, but not for H4CBD. European legislators have not yet pronounced themselves on the new cannabinoids, which leaves their consumption in doubt. For now, in the absence of a legal ban, H4CBD cannot be considered illegal.

H4CBD in the United States

In the United States, the Farm Bill in 2018 legalized at the federal level the sale and consumption of hemp products that do not exceed the 0.3% THC threshold. The Food and Drug Administration has strictly regulated these products to ensure they meet optimal quality standards. However, this legal framework mainly regulates CBD and says nothing about other cannabinoids, such as H4CBD or HHC. As in Europe, these substances are in a legal limbo.

The particularity of the United States is that each state can adopt its own laws. Thus, we realize that some are more permissive in terms of cannabinoids (Colorado, Oregon) while others are extremely restrictive.

In what forms is it possible to consume H4CBD?

Like all other cannabinoids, H4CBD comes in many forms to appeal to all types of consumers.

At the beginning of its commercialization, it was mainly available in the form of distillate: it is a liquid highly concentrated in substance, which enters the composition of products such as cartridges, e-liquids, oils, etc.

Today, it begins to appear in more popular formats: resins, flowers, vape pen, e-liquid, etc..

Are there any side effects to using H4CBD products?

As for any product acting on the body, the effects felt vary from one individual to another. If benefits have been identified by many consumers, some side effects may occur:

  • Nausea or digestive disorders;
  • dry mouth sensation;
  • mood disorders;
  • drowsiness;
  • decreased ability to concentrate;
  • motor coordination disorders.

Remember that H4CBD is a new and under-researched product, so consumers should be cautious. Always start with moderate and low doses, especially if you are not familiar with cannabinoids.

If you experience any unpleasant effects, it is best to stop using it.

Obviously, H4CBD is not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or before a car journey.

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