What exactly is H4CBD?
H4CBD, or Hexahydrocannabidiol, is a hydrogenated cousin of cannabidiol (CBD), the best-known cannabinoid in France. It is obtained by a hydrogenation reaction which transforms carbon-carbon double bonds into single bonds, enriched with four hydrogen atoms.
This transformation is certainly slight, but it is enough to give H4CBD a profile quite different from CBD.
The genesis of H4CBD dates back to a scientific experiment during the Second World War. But it was only in 2006 that its therapeutic potential was really highlighted, when a team of Italian researchers discovered a great affinity with the “CB 1” receptor of the endocannabinoid system. Clearly, H4CBD could deploy anti-inflammatory, soothing and analgesic properties superior to those of CBD…which brings us to the next point.
H4CBD vs. CBD: what are the differences?
Although both come from hemp, mainly Cannabis L. Sativa and Cannabis Indica strains, H4CBD and CBD have some differences linked to their different molecular structure.
The first difference is the degree of affinity with the “CB 1” receptor of the endocannabinoid system, largely in favor of H4CBD thanks to its chemical structure “created” in the laboratory, in vitro.
This observation results in a difference on two levels regarding the effects of each molecule:
- H4CBD displays the same properties as CBD, but with a higher intensity. It is even more calming and relaxing than CBD. It has an even more sedative effect to combat insomnia, and seems to have more marked anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties;
- Obviously, the high affinity with the “CB 1” receptor of the endocannabinoid system makes H4CBD slightly psychotropic, that is to say, it impairs the cognitive abilities of consumers.
The legal status of H4CBD in France
In France, H4CBD is not the subject of any legal text and no note from the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (ANSM). At 321CBD, we believe that its legislative future is clear: H4CBD will necessarily be banned in the short term given its psychotropic effects. It would thus follow the path of HHC and its derivatives, banned in June 2023 by the Ministry of Health. This is why we have chosen not to include this synthetic cannabinoid in the catalog of our online store!
