Article written by Borja Iribarne*.
In the last few months, you have surely heard about a new cannabinoid that was unknown until recently, the HHC or hexahydrocannabinol.. It is one more of the more than 100 cannabinoids related to related cannabinoids present in the cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant, such as CBD, THC or CBGalthough it is found in minimal quantities. In fact, its presence in cannabis plants is so low plants is so low that it is currently obtained in the laboratory, from cannabis extracts cannabis extracts extracts and through a process called hydrogenation, which gives rise to what some people call hydrogenated cannabis.
This cannabinoid is not a recent discovery; its synthesis was documented in 1940 by the U.S. chemist Roger Adamsa great scholar of natural cannabinoids, who also isolated CBD, the main non-psychoactive non-psychoactive compound of the cannabis plant, 80 years ago.
How is HHC produced?
According to a report from the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug AddictionHHC is produced on a large scale from CBD-rich CBD-rich extracts from low-THC hemp. The CBD is first transformed into a mixture of Delta 8-THC and Delta 9-THCand then, through a process called hydrogenation (addition of hydrogen molecules to the carbon bonds). carbon bonds in a pressurized vessel), HHC is obtained. This classifies it as an isolated cannabinoid and semi-synthetic, since it is made from natural compounds, but requires laboratory modification.
What are the effects of HHC?
The report states that the effects of HHC are only slightly less than those of THC, and somewhat less sustained over time (some studies place it at 70% of its potency). It continues, "The human pharmacology of HHC has not been studied and analytical (immunological) methods for rapid and unequivocal detection of HHC or its metabolites in urine are lacking. Additional research would be needed to explore the full spectrum of biological activity of this cannabinoid."
What are the benefits and adverse effects of HHC?
Regular purchasers of HHC were looking for THC-like effects in this substance, without having to resort to substances banned for their psychoactive effects. However, as of April 22, 2025, HHC is now also an illegal substance in Spain, so its sale is prohibited. Its benefits or side effects are unknown, as there are no conclusive studies on the matter. But HHC regulars highlight sensations related to the recreational aspect that is also attributed to THC, the main component of marijuana: disinhibition, happiness, relaxation?
In addition, the same adverse effects have to be considered, which include feelings of tiredness, dizziness or drowsiness, among other possible negative effects, according to the Canna Foundation. Its addictive potential is unknown.
Legal status of HHC in Spain
As mentioned, hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) has recently been banned in Spain. On April 22, 2025, the Ministry of Health published Order SND/380/2025 in the Official State Gazette (BOE), incorporating HHC and several of its derivatives into Schedule II of Annex 1 of Royal Decree 2829/1977, which regulates psychotropic substances in the country. This measure implies that the manufacture, distribution, sale and possession of HHC and its derivatives are subject to the same restrictions and sanctions as other controlled psychotropic substances.
How is HHC used?
All HHC products in Spain must be classified as products for external use and not for internal consumption.
In what formats was it sold: numerous HHC products
At ProfesorCBD we have had HHC-derived products in vape format, from the Iguana Smoke brand: vaper disposable, disposable cartridge y battery plus cartridgeand the Aporex brand, also in cartridge y disposable vaper. Up to 99% of HHC: maximum purity of the product, immediate effects. Currently, all these products have been withdrawn and we are in search of new legal molecules to replace them. In markets where HHC is not illegal, it also exists in other formats, such as flowers (CBD buds infused in HHC distillates with various percentages of potency), cannabis oil with HHC or food products (only where the direct intake of cannabinoids is regulated).
This is certainly a twist of fate in the exciting world of the cannabis industry, and further proof that there are still many surprises in store for us with the mysterious hemp plants. the mysterious hemp plants, whose admirers are not willing to stop innovating.
* Borja Iribarne is one of the great CBD experts in Spain. CEO and founder of ProfesorCBD since 2018, he is responsible for introducing high quality standards and professionalization of the sector in Spain. He also teaches at The Valley Talent business school and at the prestigious international cannabis training center Amsterdam Institute.