The French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM) has just added HHC to the list of controlled substances. This decision was made due to growing concerns about the use and potentially harmful effects of HHC. This provides us with an opportunity to take stock of the HHC molecule, its effects, and its ban.
Introduction to the HHC
HHC, whose full name is hexahydrocannabinol, is a compound found in minute quantities in the hemp plant. It is important to note that HHC is different from delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, more commonly known as THC, which is the main psychoactive component of cannabis.
HHC is a type of cannabinoid: it is a molecule capable of interacting with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in our endocannabinoid system. It belongs to the same family as other substances found in cannabis, such as CBD (cannabidiol), CBN (cannabinol), CBG (cannabigerol), and THC...
It was in 1944 that the American chemist Roger Adams succeeded in synthesizing HHC in the laboratory.
To achieve this, he hydrogenated a THC molecule (delta-9-THC).
Despite the fact that HHC was discovered not too long ago, very little research has been conducted on its effects on the human body.
After falling out of favor, it wasn’t until 2021 that HHC resurfaced and achieved the success it enjoys today. It is now available in the form of HHC flowers, HHC resin, HHC pollen, vape pens, and even candies and oil.
HHC: A Controversial Substance
But then, if HHC is a natural molecule, why is it so controversial?
To understand this, we need to look at two aspects: how it is made and its effects.
As we have mentioned, HHC is present in trace amounts in cannabis. It would therefore be complicated and very expensive to market it. As a result, it is synthesized. However, it has not been studied extensively enough for us to know the effects of a synthetic molecule on our bodies.
In addition, HHC has effects similar to those of the much better-known THC, but it is said to be more potent.
In fact, HHC and THC have very similar molecular structures, with the exception that HHC has two more carbon atoms.
However, this “small” difference is said to give it a greater affinity for our CB1 receptors. This would result in an experience with effects that are more potent than those of THC. HHC is thus said to contribute to a sense of relaxation, improve mood, and cause changes in the perception of time and space…
HHC Ban: What's the Story?
Given the widespread popularity of HHC, the French government was quick to take a close interest in this new substance. Consequently, Health Minister François Braun announced on May 15 that a risk assessment of HHC was underway and that it was only a matter of weeks before it would be banned in France.
It's now a done deal.
On Monday, June 12, the ASNM announced the addition of HHC to the list of controlled substances. HHCP and HHCO, other HHC derivatives, have also been added to this list. You can also read our article on HHC derivatives.
This decision was made following a thorough review of the scientific evidence and concerns regarding public health and safety related to the use of HHC.
Thus, as of June 13, 2023, HHC, HHCP (hexahydroxycannabiphorol), and HHCO (hexahydrocannabinol acetate) are prohibited from sale and consumption. France has thus joined the list of European countries—such as Norway, Finland, and Poland—that have banned HHC. HHC flowers, resins, oils… No matter what HHC product you have left, you will no longer be able to consume it legally.
The ban on this cannabinoid was anticipated by players in the CBD market and, frankly, comes as no surprise. Let’s hope that the ANSM’s decision will mark the beginning of better regulation of the CBD market and other cannabinoids.
