HHC is synthetic cannabis made from CBD or THC and consumed for its relaxing, potentially dangerous psychoactive effects. This product is available over-the-counter in France in CBD shops or on the Internet.
HHC (for Hexahydrocannabidiol) is synthetic cannabis available over-the-counter in France. It is chemically elaborated from molecules of CBD or THC, the main psychoactive substances of cannabis, which gives a product with psychoactive effects recognized as relaxing. Despite the fact that HHC has effects close to THC (which is prohibited in France because it has a narcotic effect and causes physical dependence), HHC is not on the list of narcotics in France and would therefore be authorized for sale since around the end of 2021. At least, for now. In the European Union, only Austria and Finland have banned the sale of HHC.
What is HHC (synthetic cannabis)?
HHC (for Hexahydrocannabidiol) is a synthetic cannabinoid chemically produced from a molecule of CBD (in France) or THC (in other countries, because in France it is not legal) modified by hydrogenation. It is naturally present in cannabis seeds (hemp plant) but in very small quantities, hence the fact that it is synthesized in the laboratory rather than extracted. It is available in CBD shops or specialized e-shops, in the form flower, resin, oil to put under the tongue, candy, scented liquid to put in your electronic cigarette…
What is the difference between CBD and HHC?
In France, HHC would be made from a CBD molecule. But its effects are actually closer to those of THC: an euphoric narcotic effect that could lead to addiction. HHC would be consumed recreationally in a festive environment (like THC) while CBD would rather have therapeutic virtues (anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, painkiller, anti-stress…). To know that the sale of CBD is authorized if the products contain less than 0.2% and whether they are manufactured within the European Union.
What are the effects of HHC?
Unlike CBD, HHC causes psychotropic effects similar to those of THC:
- Feeling of relaxation, relaxation
- Loss of control
- Energy input
- Psychological relief
- Pain relief
- Feeling of lightness in body and mind
- Sleep easier
- Increase in body temperature
What are the health hazards of HHC?
To date, no study has analyzed the specific health risks of HHC. However, synthetic cannabinoids, of which HHC is a part, have well-known risks. THE Guide to New Synthesis Products published by the Interministerial Mission for the Fight against Drugs and Addictive Behavior reports a severe clinical picture : tachycardia, arterial hypertension, chest pain, electrocardiographic changes, dyspnea, agitation, dizziness, seizures… which can lead to death due to cardio-respiratory arrest. Ultimately, the consumption of chronic synthetic cannabinoids can lead to complications:
- Increased risk of delusional decompensation, schizophrenic disorder
- Depressive disorder, suicide risk
- Persistent hallucinations
- Cognitive alterations
- Addiction
Is HHC addictive?
According to the Guide to New Synthetic Products, synthetic cannabinoids are linked to a risk of addiction. There would also be a real feeling of lack in case of withdrawal.
Is HHC legal?
There is a legal vagueness around the HHC. In France, the law does not authorize but does not prohibit the marketing of HHC. It is not classified in the list of narcotics in France (it takes time: each new product must be checked before being considered narcotic). However, the HHC has effects similar to THC (psychotropic effects, risk of “bad trip” and addiction, etc.). Its consequences on health are rather vague as well as its true origin. In December 2022, a first meeting organized by the European Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction enabled experts to discuss the potential health risks of HHC and to coordinate efforts to monitor and control its distribution and sale in Europe. Discussions should continue in 2023 to determine whether this product should continue to be legal or not.
How much does HHC cost?
The price (for 1 gram) depends on the amount of HHC present in the product:
- HHC flowers cost between 6 and 10 euros on average
- HHC resin costs around 10 euros
- HCC oil costs between 20 and 70 euros (depending on the percentage of HHC)
- HHC cartridges for electronic cigarettes cost around 40 euros each
- HHC gummies cost around 10 to 20 euros
Sources:
– National Institutes of Health (.gov)
– National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
– Interministerial mission to combat drugs and addictive behavior (MILDECA): Guide to New Synthesis Products Edition 2022
– European Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA)