CBD vs. H4CBD – What Sets Them Apart?

As the wellness industry continues to grow, the popularity of cannabidiol (CBD) has continued to grow with it. The versatility and wide-ranging potential benefits of the compound have helped to make CBD a household name – but the market is diversifying. In recent years, a number of minor cannabinoids have drawn brief attention from the spotlight of CBD – but have you heard of H4CBD? 

In this article, we’re taking a closer look at this lesser-known cousin of H4CBD and exploring the crucial differences between these two cannabinoids. So, let’s kick off with the basics: What is H4CBD?

H4CBD – Variant or Copycat?

Unlike the minor cannabinoid delta-8 THC, which promised to be an alternative to the more well-known delta-9 THC, H4CBD is not a naturally occurring cannabinoid. In fact, it is one of a number of compounds that are created in a lab; these are known as “synthetic cannabinoids”. Also known as hydrogenated CBD or tetrahydrocannabidiol, H4CBD was first synthesised in 1940 – around the same time that CBD was first isolated from the cannabis plant.

It was created through the hydrogenation of cannabis-derived CBD molecules. This process adds four hydrogen atoms to the CBD molecule, creating a “hexahydroderivative” of the compound. The end product, H4CBD, is then able to interact with the receptors in our bodies in a different way. 

Other synthetic cannabinoids have been created through the same process. For example, hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is also manufactured through the hydrogenation of CBD; however, while H4CBD more closely resembles CBD, HHC is said to have similar effects to THC, albeit much milder. Synthetic cannabinoids are also used in a clinical setting, while others such as ‘spice’ are classed as dangerous drugs.

How Does H4CBD Work?

As we mentioned, H4CBD is manufactured to work in a slightly different way than natural CBD. While both H4CBD and CBD are thought to interact with the body’s cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1), they work differently. CBD has a low affinity for the CB1 receptor’s primary ligand site, instead binding to the receptor’s allosteric site. Through this interaction, CBD may alter the potency of other compounds that bind to the receptor. 

In contrast, hydrogenated compounds like H4CBD have shown a higher affinity for CB1 receptors, indicating that they may work in a way more similar to THC. However, it should be noted that little research has been conducted into H4CBD specifically, making it difficult to know exactly how the cannabinoid interacts with the human endocannabinoid system. 

What are the Effects of H4CBD

Again, limited clinical research makes it hard to know the exact effects of H4CBD; however, the compound is said to have mildly intoxicating effects, which may be owed to the similarities to the way THC interacts with CB1 receptors. Given the popularity of both CBD and THC, it is easy to understand why many of the claims around H4CBD compare the synthetic compound to these two major cannabinoids. For example, it is often said to be many times more potent than CBD. Yet more research is needed to better understand the true effects of the compound.

Why are people using H4CBD?

Now and then, a “new” cannabinoid comes along to stir up the industry – understandably causing excitement among distributors and consumers. In the past, we have seen rising interest in delta-8 THC, HHC, and other natural and synthetic cannabinoids; so, what makes H4CBD so appealing? 

There are many reasons a consumer may feel compelled to try out this mysterious cannabinoid for themselves. Online reports from other consumers tout the compound as a combination of CBD and THC – the two most popular cannabinoids. If the reported effects of H4CBD can be believed, the compound may instil a milder intoxication to THC while demonstrating more potent CBD-like benefits. This could make H4CBD a popular option for consumers looking for therapeutic relief, such as from anxiety, sleep problems, or even pain. 

Of course, these effects have not been confirmed through clinical research, and on that note, neither has the safety of the compound. 

Health considerations when using H4CBD

One of the reasons that CBD has become so popular in countries around the world is its accepted safety. The World Health Organisation has deemed that “in its pure state, cannabidiol does not appear to have abuse potential or cause harm.” The same cannot be said, with confidence, of H4CBD – at least at the moment.

With so few studies assessing the effects and, more importantly, the safety of H4CBD, it is important to be aware of the health considerations when consuming products containing the compound. Furthermore, as CBD has been found to interact with other common medications, the same may be true of H4CBD. Drug-drug interactions can cause medications to become more or less potent, sometimes with serious implications on treatment. It should therefore be considered that any use of the compound be discussed with a healthcare professional.

But even if H4CBD was deemed completely safe to use, is it still a good idea to do so? Let’s take a closer look at the legality of this intriguing compound. 

Is H4CBD Legal?

Despite being around for over 80 years, H4CBD still appears to exist in a sort of legal grey area. In the UK, hemp (under license) and many of its derivatives – including CBD – are legal, yet the law is oddly unspecific about many cannabinoids, whether they are naturally occurring or synthetic, like H4CBD. In fact, there is currently no mention of H4CBD in any UK legislation. 

This makes the future of H4CBD an uncertain one; however, until precedence is set concerning this specific cannabinoid, it appears that it will remain available in the UK and other countries. And that may be a relief for many consumers as demand for products containing H4CBD continues to rise.

While more research is needed to establish the full effects and potency of H4CBD, the cannabinoid continues to grow in popularity. As the market grows and diversifies, a wider range of H4CBD products will likely become available; however, it is essential to be aware of future regulatory changes that may affect the availability of this cannabinoid. But don’t worry – we will keep you updated on any new developments in the H4CBD space.