HHCP: Is It the Strongest Cannabinoid Yet?

The “minor cannabinoid” market is going strong, with new compounds added to the marketplace regularly. You have possibly heard of HHC, THCP, THCO (which is illegal), delta-8 THC, and delta-10.

You can add HHCP to this lengthy list! As you can probably guess, it is related to HHC, but it is remarkably potent. This article discusses what HHCP is, outlines its staggering potency, analyzes its effects, and briefly talks about whether or not the compound is legal.

What Is HHCP?

Also known as hexahydrocannabiphorol, HHCP is an intoxicating cannabinoid. While other stars of the minor cannabinoid market, such as HHC and delta-8 THC, are found in tiny quantities in the cannabis plant, HHCP is a manmade compound.

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One way to look at it is to consider HHCP as a hydrogenated version of THCP (hydrogenation is the process of adding hydrogen molecules to the structure of a molecule.) In essence, HHCP involves enhancing the structure of HHC’s carbon side chain. In terms of chemical structure, the cannabinoid is similar to HHC, as you might expect.

However, its alkyl chain is two carbons longer (a 7-carbon side chain compared to HHC’s 5-carbon chain). For reference, THC also has a 5-carbon chain, whereas THCP has a 7-carbon chain.

The process of hydrogenating THCP’s double bond leads to the formation of a fully saturated molecule. Thus, no double or triple bonds are left between carbon atoms. Hydrogenation increases both the shelf life and stability of compounds.

How Potent Is HHCP In Relation to Delta-9 THC?

Extreme caution is advised when using HHCP. At present, there is little information relating to the potency of HHCP specifically. However, it is believed that the cannabinoid could be even more potent than THCP.

According to a study published in 2019, THCP is approximately 33 times more active on the CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) than THC! In other words, THCP is significantly more potent than THC, and HHCP could have even stronger effects again.

What Effects Will HHCP Have?

Once again, there is minimal research into the specific effects of HHCP, with most information coming via anecdotal evidence. Yet, one can see links between the effects of HHCP and other intoxicating cannabinoids.

First of all, it’s believed that HHCP’s effects last longer than those of delta-9 THC or THCP. Those who have used it report that the cannabinoid provides the strongest level of euphoria they’ve felt from an intoxicating cannabinoid.

You may also find that HHCP helps you feel relaxed and could perhaps alleviate stress. There is also a possibility that you’ll feel analgesic benefits along with improved sleep. Indeed, one 2007 study on rats found that HHC massively increased the duration of sleep.

Thus, consumers of HHCP usually purchase the cannabinoid in the hope of experiencing one or more of the following benefits:

Heightened euphoria
Improved mood
Pain relief
Better sleep
Decreased anxiety

What Are the Risks of Using HHCP?

The lack of research into the benefits and adverse effects of HHCP remains a cause for concern. Since it is likely to be many times more potent than the delta-9 THC found in marijuana, users should exercise caution and common sense when using it.

If you consume too large a dose, it’s possible that you’ll have an unpleasant experience and quite possibly have hallucinations. Moreover, since the high probably lasts longer than that provided by delta-9 THC, you’ll need to wait some time for the feeling to subside.

Most of the adverse effects of HHCP are likely similar to those associated with THC. These include:

Coordination difficulties
Elevated heart rate
Red eyes
Dry mouth
Decreased reaction time
Low blood pressure
Dizziness
Vomiting and nausea
Anxiety
Paranoia

Another big issue is the lack of regulation in the HHCP market. Remember, it is a synthetic cannabinoid, which means it’s created in a lab. There’s no real way of knowing whether these laboratories follow the correct health and safety protocols.

The FDA has outlined the dangers of unregulated cannabis products. It wrote a report explaining that the conversion process can lead to major variations and inconsistencies in the formulation and labeling of different products. When you’re looking to use an ultra-potent cannabinoid, you don’t want brands to take shortcuts.

Thus, please ensure you use one of the few reputable HHCP sellers that issue fully updated third-party lab reports.

Is It Legal to Purchase and Use HHCP?

This is a tricky question to answer, although, at present, it appears that HHCP is legal. This is due to the Farm Bill, which states that industrial hemp (cannabis plants with a maximum of 0.3% THC) is legal to grow in the United States.

A ruling from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in 2022 stated that delta-8 THC products were legal according to the Farm Bill as long as they came from hemp. Since HHCP is created using HHC, which comes from delta-8 THC, one can say that currently, the cannabinoid is legal.

However, it’s essential to note that the DEA is on a mission to close this loophole. The United States Patent and Trademark Office is also denying applications for D8 products.

Furthermore, a growing number of states have elected to outlaw HHCP products. This includes states that permit recreational marijuana! Therefore, please ensure you check the laws of your state before attempting to make a HHCP purchase.

Will I Fail a Drug Test If I Use HHCP?

Although there is no concrete evidence, you should assume that your HHCP use will result in you failing a drug test. Remember, it comes from HHC, which itself is a THC derivative.

Granted, most urine tests won’t specifically look for HHCP. However, they do test for THC-related metabolites. Thus, you have to acknowledge that you’re at severe risk of your HHCP usage showing up with your employer assuming it relates to marijuana usage.

HHCP: Treat This Super Strong Cannabinoid with Respect

The HHCP market is growing rapidly, and numerous brands include it in their product ranges. However, since the minor cannabinoid market remains poorly regulated, tread carefully when making a decision. Also, take a look at your state’s laws before doing anything else.

You can primarily buy HHCP in vape juice and edible forms at present. If you decide to try it, please remember that it is incredibly potent. A tiny amount can have very noticeable effects, so use it with caution.