HHC is a synthetic cannabinoid that was banned in France in June 2023. CBD shops had to remove products containing HHC. However, many other CBD products are still available for purchase. On Monday, June 12, 2023, the French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM) added hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and two other derivative substances (DHCP and HHO) to the list of narcotics prohibited for production, sale, and consumption in France. In its press release, the agency justified this decision by stating that this molecule presents a risk of “dependence and abuse” similar to that of cannabis. Naturally, as expected, this measure disrupted the operations of CBD shops and their product offerings. How are retailers and customers in these specialized stores adapting to this premature ban? Why is HHC banned?
To understand the reasons behind this ban by the French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM), it’s essential to have a thorough understanding of the HHC molecule, its composition, and its effects on the body.HHC: What exactly is it?Hexahydrocannabinol, or HHC, is one of the cannabinoids (active molecules in cannabis) naturally produced by hemp. It is present in very small quantities in the seeds and plants of male varieties (Indica and Sativa). A significant amount of biomass is required to produce even a small quantity of HHC. We owe the discovery of this cannabinoid, in particular, to the American chemist Robert Adams. Furthermore, since its discovery in 1944, HHC has been the subject of very few studies. Scientists have focused much more on studying CBD and THC.
What is its composition?
When it comes to cannabis, it’s important not to confuse the different molecules. Although all are molecules extracted from the hemp plant, cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) each have their own specific effects and intrinsic characteristics.
HHC Production
HHC is a molecule produced artificially (chemically) for commercial purposes. Why? Because the amount of this molecule present in cannabis is so small that, once extracted, it is chemically reproduced on a large scale to meet consumer demand.
Scientists start with a synthetic THC molecule, which they place in a hydrogenation chamber. In this process, two hydrogen atoms bond to the THC molecule. The concentrated hydrogenated THC extract is then pressurized.
This hydrogenation technique is not new. It is widely used in the food industry, especially in the production of fats and oils. The process requires in-depth knowledge of the manufacturing steps and equipment. Furthermore, due to the dangers associated with its production, HHC can only be produced in a laboratory. Attempting it at home exposes you to the risk of explosions!
What are the effects of HHC on the body?
It’s a bit tricky to answer this question since experiences vary. It’s important to remember that very few studies have been conducted on hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). Products containing HHC rarely specify the amount of HHC. Like CBD, HHC also acts on receptors in the central and peripheral nervous systems. 9R-HHC, for example, is an antagonist of the CB1 receptor. Like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), THC acts on receptors involved in behavioral regulation and in the brain.
Based on available data and opinions, the psychotropic effects of HHC are most emphasized. Regarding its therapeutic and psychotropic effects, HHC seems to produce euphoria in the first few minutes before leading to a deep state of both mental and physical relaxation. This is one of the reasons why HHC is often preferred over THC. Until June 12, 2023, HHC was the “legal THC,” and French regulations permitted its production, sale, and consumption.
The other effects of HHC reported by users are diverse and varied. While some find it more potent than THC, others believe its effects are less pronounced. However, it’s worth noting that HHC is said to be more potent than morphine! Generally speaking, HHC can help to:
Increase creativity;
Stimulate appetite; Relieve pain;Relax muscles, etc.
The effects of HHC are therefore much milder on the body than those of THC.
The adverse effects of HHC on the body: Panic attacks, paranoia, tachycardia, and other undesirable side effects experienced in response to THC consumption are not present with HHC. It is a powerful stimulant with a strong potential for relaxation.
- Furthermore, the side effects of HHC can also depend on the individual’s body and the method of consumption. In its vaporized form, this substance can:
- Increase appetite tenfold;
- Cause severe drowsiness;
- Give rise to dry mouth, red eyes, etc.
This is why, when HHC was still legal in France, its consumption was strongly discouraged if you had certain responsibilities, such as working or driving. HHC is best consumed during a moment of relaxation or pure tranquility.
It’s important to note that side effects vary from person to person. Remember: every body reacts differently to cannabinoids.
Does HHC pose a health risk to users?
No incidents have been reported to date. However, no scientific research has proven that HHC is harmless. The only contraindications to its use were its prohibition for minors, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers. It was also recommended to consume small doses to observe the body’s reaction.
- Why was HHC banned in France?
- Hexahydrocannabinol was banned in France by the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (ANSM) due to the potential risks of significant side effects and addiction. Pending scientific studies that prove otherwise, this substance is now prohibited under French law, and this decision took effect on June 13, 2023.
- What are the consequences of the HHC ban for the legal cannabis market?
The ANSM’s ban on HHC has created a real sense of panic and a certain imbalance in the CBD market. This decision has come as a shock to specialized CBD shops. Retailers are now required to remove all products containing HHC from their shelves under penalty of law.
Among the observed consequences are:
The disappearance of some CBD-based products;
A potential decrease in customers for specialized shops;
The closure of some specialized shops due to the enormous losses incurred.
- Regarding this last point, all shops that were unable to sell off their entire stock between June 12th and 13th, 2023, were forced to dispose of their merchandise!
- A mixed reaction among consumers
Consumers are expressing considerable dismay at this measure. Most have refuted the ANSM’s argument that HHC consumption leads to significant side effects or risks of addiction. Retailers’ Response to the Measure
Until June 13, 2023, the date the ban came into full effect, the announcement of the halt to HHC sales led to a surge of customers seeking to stock up at legal cannabis shops. The measure taken by the ANSM (French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety) triggered a wave of clearance sales in stores: a way for them to quickly sell off their stocks of HHC-based products.
Immediate Removal of HHC-Based Products
CBD retailers reacted swiftly to the ban on Hexahydrocannabinol by removing the offending products from their shelves. This initiative aims, in particular, to comply with the legal requirements established by the French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety and to prevent the sale of an illegal product.
It’s worth remembering that HHC is synthesized from THC. Although less psychoactive than THC, it remains a controversial compound, justifying its classification as a narcotic.
A confusing future for the legal cannabis ecosystem
Despite the ban on HHC, other substances derived from hemp are poised to take its place. Derivative products like H4CBD and THCV are gradually appearing on the shelves of specialty stores. Two questions remain: will the HHC ban be enough to control cannabis consumption and its potentially harmful effects on public health? Or will it unwittingly lead to an endless race for new substances? In either case, there is a significant risk of triggering a surge in the black market.
Like other European countries, France finds itself at a crossroads regarding its drug policy. This measure concerning HHC is just one example.
The debate surrounding cannabis regulation The debate surrounding cannabis regulation has generated much discussion since the ban on HHC in France. While some experts believe this measure could be effective in reducing the size of the black market and ensuring quality control of cannabis-derived products, others believe, on the contrary, that it could lead to an increase in consumption, primarily among young people. One thing is certain: this measure confirms the need to restructure this sector in order to guarantee the traceability and quality of the products offered. But that’s not all! The ban on HHC should encourage specialized stores to rely more heavily on the results of scientific research on CBD in order to provide consumers with the best possible products. All this without breaking the law.
What are the consequences of the HHC ban for consumers?
For consumers, the consequences of the HHC ban are unpredictable. Some may turn to other products (legal or illegal) to replace HHC. Others, however, may choose to stop consuming CBD products permanently (or temporarily), particularly due to the fear of consuming illegal or potentially harmful products.
CBD Shops Turn to Other HHC Alternatives
Shops specializing in the sale of CBD products are not giving up so easily in the face of this measure taken by the French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM). They continue to fight for other legal alternatives to satisfy their customers. Among the solutions offered are:
CBD-rich
dietary supplements;
- CBD-enriched cosmetics;
- pure CBD oils free of any prohibited substances;
- CBD-infused pet products… the list is not exhaustive!
- Without breaking the law, these options offered by specialized shops allow consumers to continue to benefit from the therapeutic and relaxing effects of Cannabidiol (CBD). Thus, it’s important to remember that the main reason for the ban on HHC in France by the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (ANSM) is due to the potential risk of addiction and unwanted side effects. This measure has had a significant impact on retailers and consumers. While some specialized shops are already turning to other legal alternatives to HHC, questions inevitably arise regarding the future of cannabis legislation in France.
Although other derivatives of Indian hemp, such as THCV and H4CBD, are also gradually gaining ground in the market as alternatives to HHC, as things stand, only developments in the coming months will answer the remaining questions.
Sources
https://www.toute-la-franchise.com/news-553834-alexandre-lacarre-interview-franceinfo-interdiction-hhc.html
