HHC is over, here comes 10-OH-HHC!
- What is 10-OH-HHC and how is it formed?
- What is the history of 10-OH-HHC?
- Effects and properties of 10-OH-HHC
- Side effects of 10-OH-HHC
- Is 10-OH-HHC available on the market?
What is 10-OH-HHC and how is it made?
Right off the bat, we will tell you that 10-OH-HHC or 10-hydroxy-hexahydrocannabinol is a derivative of HHC (hexahydrocannabinol). It is produced by oxidation of HHC by an enzyme called cytochrome P450, which is also found in the liver. During the chemical reaction, the structure of the precursor, in this case HHC, changes. A hydroxyl group (-OH) is attached to the tenth carbon.
What is the history of 10-OH-HHC?
The first mention of 10-hydroxy-hexahydrocannabinol probably dates back to 1980, when the compound was identified by a team of scientists led by Raphael Mechoulam. The researchers synthesised 10-OH-HHC and studied its effects in Rhesus monkeys, demonstrating that the compound produces psychoactive effects.
It was not until 2015 that a group of scientists working at the University of Mississippi, led by Professor A. Ahmed.
Effects and properties of 10-OH-HHC
The cannabinoid 10-OH-HHC has psychoactive effects, although probably less intense than HHC or THC. It can induce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, altered perception or increased appetite.
Like other cannabinoids, 10-OH-HHC is likely to bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, a complex cellular network that affects, for example, mood, appetite, sleep or pain perception. However, we do not yet have information on how 10-OH-HHC interacts with these receptors and what physiological functions in the body it affects. How this compound will affect the body depends on many factors such as the concentration of the product, the method of use, gender, age or metabolism of the individual.
We know that 10-OH-HHC has low bioavailability and its concentration in the blood is halved within a short period of time. When this substance is taken orally (e.g. capsules), a large proportion of 10-OH-HHC may be converted to the inactive form 10-carboxy-HHC.
Side effects of 10-OH-HHC
As with other cannabinoids with psychoactive effects, side effects may occur with 10-OH-HHC, such as:
- Anxiety and paranoia.
- Dizziness
- Increased heart rate
- Red eyes
- Dry mouth
- Cognitive impairment
There are no studies yet that have evaluated whether taking 10-OH-HHC is risk-free.
Because new cannabinoids are not regulated in any way and are mostly in a 'legal grey area', there is a risk that products will appear on the market contaminated with heavy metals or other unwanted and potentially dangerous substances.
Is 10-OH-HHC available on the market?
10-OH-HHC vapes, gummies, hash, pre-rolls and flowers infused with 10-OH-HHC distillate are already appearing in the US and many European countries. These products contain less than 0,3 % THC and are therefore legal under the 2018 US Farm Bill. Otherwise, however, their legal status is unclear and individual countries will shortly be discussing which category of substances this cannabinoid should fall under in terms of legislation.
Research is pending to evaluate the purity, potency and safety of commercially available 10-OH-HHC products. This cannabinoid is not suitable for those who have no experience with similar substances. Always purchase new cannabinoids only from trusted vendors who have their products tested by an independent laboratory.
Author: Buds for Buddies
Photo: Shutterstock
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