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ToggleCannabis scientists have done it again. There is a new cannabinoid on the market — H4CBD — that has everyone talking. But what is H4CBD? Should you try it? And what’s the difference between H4CBD vs CBD?
Today, we’re taking a closer look into this brand-new cannabinoid, how it’s made, and whether or not it’s something you should try out.
What is H4CBD?
If you haven’t heard of H4-CBD yet, that’s because it’s one of the newest cannabinoids in the industry, and many brands haven’t even begun to be able to make products using it.
However, it’s getting a lot of attention with extractors, so we can assume that H4-CBD products will be plentiful in the near future. But what is H4CBD in the first place?
Essentially, H4-CBD is a hydrogenated version of CBD.
Remember when we talked about HHC, the cannabinoid that was the hydrogenated form of THC? Well, this cannabinoid is made using the same process — only it starts with hemp-derived CBD instead.
To make H4CBD, chemists start with hemp-derived CBD molecules and combine them with hydrogen atoms. (Hence the term “hydrogenation.”) This chemical reaction creates a new compound, one that’s been recently coined “H4-CBD.”
So, yes, H4CBD is technically a semi-synthetic compound, as it is made in a lab and requires specific processes to be curated.
What is H4CBD Used for?
H4CBD is primarily explored for its potential therapeutic benefits akin to CBD but with a higher potency. Given its hydrogenated nature, H4CBD may alleviate anxiety, manage pain, and reduce inflammation, all while minimizing psychoactive effects.
This makes it an attractive option for those seeking the health benefits associated with cannabinoids without the high associated with THC. As research into H4CBD progresses, its application could expand, potentially offering a more potent alternative to traditional CBD products for those looking to support their wellness regimen.
Now that you know what H4CBD is, let’s talk a little bit about its effects.
H4CBD Effects & Properties
With a compound as new as H4CBD, it’s difficult to talk in length about its effects, properties, or even how it works in the body — because we simply don’t know yet.
However, from those who have tried the cannabinoid, many describe H4CBD effects as being similar to consuming a 2:1 CBD: THC product. This means that it offers prominent therapeutic effects but may also give you mild euphoria. A combination like this can be great for those who want to feel mentally and physically better but without getting super stoned.
As we learn more about H4-CBD effects and how it works in the body, we’ll keep you updated. But, for now, we can say that the compound likely feels like extra strong CBD with a little added THC sprinkled in.
Judging by the name and the fact the H4CBD is made from cannabidiol, you’re probably wondering what the difference is between CBD and H4CBD.
Is H4CBD Psychoactive?
H4CBD can feel slightly psychoactive in the body. That is a clear difference between CBD and H4CBD, as CBD doesn’t produce any psychoactive effects whatsoever. In fact, many people turn to CBD because it doesn’t make them feel high.
These slight psychoactive effects are likely due to the way that H4-CBD appears to work in the body.
Again this information is still new, but it seems as though the H4-CBD cannabinoid works with the CB1 receptors about 100 times more than CBD does. But, that’s because CBD doesn’t react with the CB1 receptors at all.
So, 100 times nothing isn’t really a whole lot in the grand scheme of things.
But, still, the potency of the H4CBD cannabinoid is clearly one of the biggest differences compared to CBD. Of course, CBD is also a major, naturally made cannabinoid, while H4-CBD is synthetic. You can take that as you will.
H4CBD Vs. CBD
Category | CBD | H4CBD |
Source | Direct hemp derivative | Artificially modified from CBD via hydrogenation; considered a synthetic cannabinoid |
Structure | Natural structure | Structurally altered with four additional hydrogen atoms; changes shape and properties |
Effects | Non-intoxicating, with various therapeutic benefits | Similar to a 2:1 CBD to THC product, non-intoxicating with a slight sense of intoxication |
Potency | Standard potency at CB1 receptors | Potentially 100 times more potent than CBD at CB1 receptors, but overall potency is still under discussion |
Legality | Considered industrial hemp under the 2018 Farm Bill | Legal status is similar to CBD, but the regulatory landscape is evolving |
Availability | Widely available | Growing demand with the increasing availability of distillates, isolates, and finished products |
Is Hydrogenation Safe?
We talked about the fact that the cannabinoid is curated using a hydrogenation process. That itself tends to raise some questions, too.
Is hydrogenation a safe practice? Is it safe for cannabinoids?
Typically, when the process was utilized to make food products, these products ended up being quite unhealthy for consumption. In fact, the FDA considers partially hydrogenated oils to be “not generally recognized as safe.” (CBD, on the other hand, is. Just sayin’.)
However, this isn’t to say that the process is unhealthy for cannabinoid creation.
Currently, there isn’t anything that suggests that hydrogenated THC or hydrogenated CBD is inherently unsafe. But, it does alter the chemical composition of cannabinoids, and we simply don’t know what kind of effects this will have in the long run.
In general, people haven’t reported many issues with hydrogenated cannabinoids like HHC or HHCO. However, we still think it’s important to wait on more studies and clinical trials before making any concrete conclusions about the safety and quality of hydrogenated THC or CBD.
Should You Try H4CBD?
If you manage to get your hands on a product like an H4CBD vape, we can’t tell you whether or not it’s a good idea to puff on it. Simply put, H4-CBD is an incredibly new compound, and there really isn’t much information out there about it.
In case you do want to try this cannabinoid out, we highly urge you to only purchase H4CBD products from the most reputable cannabinoid brands out there.
Don’t buy from any brands that don’t offer full-panel lab-test results (COAs), as seeing purity and potency is integral. It’s also good to buy from a brand that has five-star reviews and a positive reputation. A simple Google search of the company will do you good.
H4-CBD would be best for consumers who enjoy the effects of CBD but are seeking something slightly stronger. Still, it’s crucial to proceed with caution, do ample research, and start only with low milligrams if you plan on trying this hydrogenated form of CBD.
Is H4CBD Stronger Than HHC?
H4CBD is not stronger than HHC in terms of psychoactive effects; however, it may offer stronger therapeutic benefits without the high.
H4CBD, a hydrogenated version of CBD, aims to enhance therapeutic effects like anxiety and pain relief, potentially offering a more potent alternative to traditional CBD with minimal psychoactivity.
In contrast, HHC, being more akin to THC, is recognized for its psychoactive properties, providing a euphoric effect that H4CBD does not aim to deliver.
While H4CBD focuses on maximizing health benefits with less emphasis on psychoactivity, HHC offers a stronger experience in terms of altering one’s mental state. Thus, the “strength” of each compound depends on its intended use and effect—H4CBD for stronger therapeutic potential and HHC for its psychoactive impact.
Does H4CBD Make You Sleepy?
Although it doesn’t directly induce sleepiness, H4CBD’s calming properties can help alleviate stress and anxiety, thereby facilitating a smoother transition to sleep. This makes H4CBD a promising option for those looking to improve sleep quality and manage insomnia naturally without resorting to traditional sleep aids or experiencing a “high” feeling.
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For now, we’d suggest waiting a bit longer until more research and more information about H4-CBD come out before trying it. But to each their own!
Regardless, the best way to enjoy the highest-quality cannabis products — no matter what — is by getting your medical marijuana card.
An MMJ card opens the door to many benefits — from increased discounts to lower taxes and even higher possession limits. Plus, your cannabis products always come from the best, most reputable sources.