Posted on 26 March 202528 March 2025 by Joe

The Science of the Munchies

For anyone who has ever consumed cannabis, the term “munchies” is likely familiar. It’s that undeniable urge to snack, an amplified craving for food that can turn even the most mundane meal into an unforgettable experience. But what is happening behind the scenes in our bodies and brains when cannabis triggers this sensation? Is it purely psychological, or is there a deeper biochemical process at play?

We explore the science behind the munchies—how cannabinoids interact with our hunger hormones, the brain’s reward pathways, and why cannabis has been both celebrated and studied for its appetite-stimulating effects.

The Endocannabinoid System and Hunger

At the core of cannabis-induced hunger lies the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that help regulate various physiological processes, including appetite, metabolism, and mood. The ECS consists of cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, which respond to both endocannabinoids (naturally produced by our bodies) and exogenous cannabinoids like THC from cannabis. You can read more on this in our other blogs here.

Research has shown that CB1 receptors are heavily concentrated in the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for controlling hunger and energy balance. When THC binds to these receptors, it mimics the actions of natural endocannabinoids, leading to increased food-seeking behavior and a heightened enjoyment of eating.

Studies have also linked CB1 receptor activation to ghrelin, a hormone commonly known as the “hunger hormone.” When THC is introduced into the body, ghrelin levels rise, signaling the brain that it’s time to eat—even if the person has already had a meal. This explains why cannabis users often feel an insatiable desire to snack, even when they aren’t truly hungry.

The Brain’s Reward System: Why Food Tastes Better

Beyond simply making you feel hungry, cannabis also enhances the pleasure of eating. The mesolimbic dopamine system, often referred to as the brain’s “reward center,” plays a critical role in how we experience pleasure from food. When CB1 receptors are activated, they amplify the release of dopamine, making flavors, textures, and aromas more intense and enjoyable.

A study by Kirkham (2009) found that THC not only increases the desire to eat but also enhances the brain’s perception of food palatability. This means that the same meal consumed while sober may taste significantly better when under the influence of cannabis. This could explain why certain snacks—especially sweet, salty, or fatty foods—become overwhelmingly appealing after cannabis use.

The Role of Ghrelin, Leptin, and Insulin

While ghrelin increases hunger, leptin is the hormone responsible for signaling fullness. Interestingly, studies have shown that cannabis use inhibits leptin signaling, meaning the brain doesn’t receive its usual “stop eating” message. This further contributes to the extended food cravings associated with the munchies. Which also explains why some stoners can destroy a whole pizza alone…

Another fascinating effect of cannabis on metabolism is its interaction with insulin. Some research suggests that chronic cannabis users have a lower prevalence of obesity and diabetes despite their increased caloric intake. This could be due to the way cannabinoids influence insulin resistance and energy storage in adipose tissue, though more research is needed to fully understand this complex relationship.

Cannabis is truly fascinating.

Beyond Hunger: The Cultural Significance of Munchies

While the munchies are often discussed in scientific terms, they are also deeply embedded in cannabis culture. For decades, cannabis has been associated with social food experiences, from indulging in late-night snacks to culinary creativity inspired by heightened senses. Some users report that cannabis helps them appreciate food more mindfully, savoring flavors in ways they never had before. They might just be high if you ask me…

When it comes to munchies favorites, the list is as diverse as the cannabis community itself. Some prefer the salty-sweet contrast of popcorn and chocolate, while others opt for classic comfort foods like pizza, nachos, and ice cream. Then there’s the DIY munchies crew, those who get creative in the kitchen, experimenting with new flavor combinations they might never have considered while sober.

The munchies are also a highly social experience. Sharing snacks with friends, passing around a bag of chips, or making an impromptu food run at midnight creates a sense of community and joy. Whether it’s laughing over a ridiculous food craving or debating the best snacks to eat while high, the munchies are often a bonding moment that brings people together.

In the medical community, these appetite-stimulating properties have been harnessed to help patients suffering from cachexia, cancer-related anorexia, and HIV/AIDS-induced weight loss, making cannabis a valuable tool for improving quality of life in certain individuals. Some who just find it hard to stomach food will say that without smoking a little prior to eating it would be a grueling task.

What some Stoner’s Say about the Munchies

Athena Baucum – Have run directly into door frames three times in a minute

“Anything I can get my grubby little hands on. Main motive? Consume. I don’t care if it’s two boxes of cold Hungry Howies pizza or just a bag of spinach. It will be gone soon. I’ve filled up a gallon of water and drank the whole thing just because I needed to have something in my mouth. There are things I prefer more (greasy, salty, and savory) but I would eat my goddamn bed if I could get my mouth around it.”

Shane Zimmerman (Cannabis enthusiast for 20 years)

“CARBS, CARBS, CARBS.

First, to dispel some myths, not all cannabis stimulates your appetite, and some actually suppress it. We don’t always sit around and eat a whole bag of Doritos and a dozen doughnuts. (Full disclosure, I have eaten a whole bag of Doritos and a dozen doughnuts.)

I tend to use my high as a precursor for experimenting with food, because I love to cook. Being stoned is a perfect mindspace to let your creativity flow in the kitchen.

Some of my favorite “stoned meals” from the last couple months: Four-cheese & Steak Quesadilla Pizza”

Alexander Musarra – Soldier, Musician 11y

“Fruits are really good, because it helps with the dry mouth. Also, sometimes I get uncontrollable, animalistic munchies. When that happens, I often eat too much of too many different things and can feel a little sick. When I eat fruit that never happens. Drink a lot of water.”

Laura Breton – Over 10 years smoking cannabis

“From personal experience, you cannot stop the munchies. However, there are ways to eat in a way that you won’t feel bad about your choices, or make you gain unnecessary weight.

Snack Prep. Before starting to smoke, buy your snacks. The major Pothead Rookie Mistake is going to eat after smoking. We all know that when you feel the munchies, it’s like an uncontrollable hunger. Anything and everything sounds good. Hell, you can give me a bowl of straight mayo when I have the munchies, I might just eat it. So, before doing anything related to smoking, buy your snacks. Since you’ll be able to be more focused, you can make smarter decisions.

Choose juicy and tasty. The best snacks I’ve gotten for myself to eat while I had the munchies have been watermelon, strawberries, boba tea, cold juices, etc. The best snacks are the common sense snacks. You think a milkshake from McDonald’s is going to hit the spot until you decide to get a Jamba Juice fresh juice. Even when experiencing munchies, your mind and body will be happy to get some real good stuff in you.

Drink water, some more water, and even more water. Instead of buying that Big Gulp of soda from 7/11, get yourself a big bottle of water. When you’re done with your Munchies Food, the greatest thing you could do for your body and your cotton mouth is drink copious amounts of H20.

So that’s it. Those are the three simple, common-sense ways to not overeat when you have the munchies. Like the saying goes, ‘Keep It Simple, Stupid!’ “

Is the Munchies Effect a Blessing or a Curse?

For some, the munchies are a fun and harmless side effect of cannabis use. For others, especially those mindful of their diet or managing certain health conditions, they can be an unwanted challenge. Understanding the science behind this phenomenon allows users to make more informed choices—whether that means stocking up on healthy snacks before consuming cannabis, or simply embracing the experience as part of the broader cannabis culture, or even looking for more CBD-dominant cannabis is the answer.

Regardless of how you feel about the munchies, one thing is clear: cannabis has a profound influence on our appetite, taste perception, and food enjoyment, making it a fascinating subject for both science and society.

Activate Your Munch 😉

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Posted on 18 December 202422 January 2025 by Joe

Cannabinol and Sleep: A New Frontier in Cannabis-Based Therapeutics

Most cannabis users are aware that cannabis heals. It helps with pain, nausea and sleep. But do we ever wonder what exactly about the plant is causing these effects to be so effective? Because of the success in liberating the plant to date, the research and studies in the benefits that cannabis brings to our lives have only increased.

Cannabis has long been associated with relaxation and improved sleep quality, but scientific evidence on how specific cannabinoids influence sleep architecture is only now emerging. A recent study on cannabinol (CBN) and its active metabolite, 11-hydroxy-CBN (11-OH-CBN), sheds light on their distinct roles in promoting sleep. Unlike THC, which has psychoactive effects, CBN shows promise as a targeted sleep aid, offering a delayed but longer-lasting effect compared to conventional medications like zolpidem.

We will have a look at the key findings of the study, the broader relationship between cannabis and sleep, and the potential of cannabinoid-based therapeutics in addressing sleep disorders.

CBN and Sleep Architecture

What is CBN?

Cannabinol (CBN) is a naturally occurring, non-intoxicating cannabinoid derived from the degradation of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). As cannabis ages or is exposed to heat and oxygen, THC breaks down into CBN, resulting in a compound with unique therapeutic properties. Unlike THC, CBN interacts with the body’s cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors more mildly, offering subtle effects without causing a “high.”. CBN exhibits anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and appetite-stimulating properties, making it a promising target for therapeutic applications. While not as well-known as THC or CBD, CBN’s emerging role in sleep and wellness underscores its growing significance in cannabinoid research and medicine.

Understanding Sleep Architecture

Sleep architecture refers to the cyclical structure of sleep, comprising distinct stages that the brain transitions through during a typical sleep cycle. These stages are categorized into two primary types: non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. NREM sleep is further divided into three stages (N1, N2, and N3), each representing varying depths of sleep. N1 is the lightest stage, where one drifts between wakefulness and sleep. N2 is a deeper, more stable stage, accounting for the majority of total sleep time, and plays a key role in memory consolidation. N3, often called slow-wave or deep sleep, is crucial for physical recovery, immune function, and growth. REM sleep, in contrast, is marked by vivid dreaming and heightened brain activity, resembling an awake state. This stage is vital for cognitive functions like learning, memory, and emotional regulation.

A typical sleep cycle lasts around 90 minutes, with the brain cycling through the NREM and REM stages multiple times throughout the night. Early cycles feature more NREM, particularly deep sleep, while REM sleep becomes more prominent in later cycles. Balanced sleep architecture ensures restorative sleep, enabling the body and mind to recover and function optimally. Disruptions to this architecture—such as insufficient REM or deep sleep—can lead to issues like fatigue, impaired memory, and reduced emotional resilience.

The study in a nutshell

Influence on Sleep Architecture:

CBN and 11-OH-CBN significantly alter sleep patterns by increasing both non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. These biphasic effects initially suppress sleep before enhancing it over time, distinguishing CBN from other cannabinoids.

Mechanism of Action:

Both compounds interact with cannabinoid CB1 receptors, which are central to regulating sleep-wake cycles. 11-OH-CBN exhibits greater potency, suggesting its potential as a more effective sleep modulator due to its ability to be more bioavailable for the receptors.

Comparison to Traditional Sleep Aids:

Unlike zolpidem, which induces immediate sedation, CBN provides a delayed onset but longer-lasting sleep promotion. We also know that there are side effects that come with the traditional medication that has worse sleep effects in the long term for people. This difference may benefit individuals who struggle with maintaining sleep rather than initiating it. It can also help those who are dependent on the heavy sleeping aids come off them slowly by providing a more natural alternative.

Limitations and Considerations:

The biphasic effects of CBN refer to its dual-phase influence on sleep depending on the timing and dosage. Initially, CBN can suppress sleep onset or delay transitions into deeper sleep stages, which may seem counterintuitive for a sleep-promoting compound. However, as its effects progress, CBN enhances sleep architecture by increasing the duration and quality of both non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. This biphasic nature means that its immediate effects differ from its long-term impact, highlighting the importance of dosing and timing when considering CBN as a therapeutic agent.

Long-term use may lead to tolerance, necessitating further research into sustainable treatment protocols.

Cannabis and Sleep: A Complex Relationship

Cannabis’s influence on sleep has been known anecdotally for centuries. However, its effects depend on several factors, including the cannabinoid profile, dosage, and individual physiology. THC is known to reduce the time it takes to fall asleep but may impair REM sleep with prolonged use, potentially disrupting long-term sleep quality. Unlike THC, CBD’s anxiolytic properties can indirectly promote sleep by reducing anxiety and enhancing relaxation, particularly in individuals with stress-related insomnia.

CBN has emerged as a non-psychoactive alternative for addressing sleep disorders. Its unique interaction with CB1 receptors and prolonged effects on sleep architecture position it as a potential therapeutic solution.

The Potential of Cannabinoid-Based Therapeutics for Sleep Disorders

The findings on CBN and its metabolite align with growing interest in cannabinoid-based treatments for sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome. Here’s why cannabinoid therapeutics hold promise:

Targeted Relief:

Different cannabinoids target specific pathways, allowing for personalized treatment approaches. For example, THC may be beneficial for acute sleep onset, while CBD and CBN may address anxiety or sleep maintenance, respectively. Due to sensitivity to THC, not everyone will benefit greatly from the compound. Using CBN correctly can provide better relief in cases where THC or full-spectrum treatments would be overwhelming.

Reduced Side Effects:

Traditional sleep aids like benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepine hypnotics (e.g., zolpidem) can lead to dependency, cognitive impairment, and daytime drowsiness. Cannabinoids offer a natural alternative with potentially fewer side effects when used responsibly. Of course Cannabis is one of many natural alternatives as a sleeping aid. It might not be the most effective one but it’s less harmful in the long term than something like zolpidem.

Broad Therapeutic Range:

Beyond sleep promotion, cannabinoids contribute to pain relief, anti-inflammation, and anxiety reduction, addressing the root causes of sleep disruption. Allowing for a more holistic healing approach. Many believe that medication in isolation is what has brought us here in the first place and ensuring that cannabis healing remains wholesome is important to many.

Future Innovations:

Advances in genetic research, as highlighted in previous blogs, may lead to strains or formulations optimised for specific sleep-related benefits, combining cannabinoids like CBN with terpenes known for sedative effects, such as myrcene and linalool. Great potential awaits as new discoveries allow us to produce better healing plants. I wonder, what are your thoughts on this blended approach of research and science with nature? Please comment below.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

While the study on CBN and 11-OH-CBN marks an exciting step forward, challenges remain:

Dosing and Delivery: Establishing the right dosage to harness the biphasic effects without adverse reactions.

Tolerance and Dependence: Understanding the long-term impact of CBN-based treatments to avoid diminishing returns. As it is known that the more you use cannabis your body builds a natural tolerance to it.

Regulation and Access: Navigating the legal landscape to make cannabinoid-based sleep aids widely available and standardised.

However, the potential benefits are undeniable. With more research, cannabinoids like CBN could revolutionize the treatment of sleep disorders, offering natural, tailored solutions that address both symptoms and underlying causes.

The study on CBN and its metabolite underscores the untapped potential of cannabis in medicine as a whole. This study is now starting human trials. It will be many more years before all the data can be compiled but from this initial work, we can already be excited about the therapeutic benefits of CBN and other cannabinoids we are yet to understand.

Posted on 17 July 202425 August 2024 by Joe

CBD – Full Spectrum, Broad-Spectrum & Isolate

What is CBD?

CBD, which stands for cannabidiol, is one of over 100 naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it does not produce a “high” or the stoned effect associated with cannabis. CBD is largely known for its potential health benefits, and people have been using it for pain management, calmness, and combating inflammation.

What are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that can affect your brain and body in different ways. They’re produced naturally by your own body and also found in various plants like hemp.

Does that mean that other plants also contain cannabinoids? Yes, some other plants contain cannabinoid-like compounds which can also be beneficial. For instance, Cacao, which is the plant from which we make chocolate, contains anandamide, which is a cannabinoid that binds to your C1 receptors and makes you feel happy and relaxed.

Most CBD products that are regulated in our market are derived from hemp, which is a variety of cannabis plant that has very low levels of THC but is rich in cannabidiol (CBD). Some grow more full-spectrum CBD strains. However, due to legislative issues, these flowers are still deemed illegal and have made their market accessibility difficult. Hence why has the market developed the Broad spectrum approach, is it ideal? Is it Natural? Does all of that even matter?

These are Questions that must be asked along the way.

These cannabinoids interact with receptors in our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex system found in all mammals. It plays an essential role in regulating our body’s physical and cognitive processes like:

Sleep
Immunity
Stress Regulation
Pain Tolerance
Appetite
Memory
Reproductive System

and more…

ECS is also crucial in maintaining our overall health and balance. When the ECS is in a state of imbalance, or our body doesn’t produce enough cannabinoids, we can use the help of CBD.

Cannabinoids found in cannabis mimic our body’s natural endocannabinoids and help to restore natural balance in our body, this state is called ‘homeostasis’. Both endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids (the ones found in plants) bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are located throughout our bodies and support homeostasis. We have written a blog on this too. Please feel free to read or listen to it here.

What is Full-Spectrum CBD?

Refers to CBD-high cannabis that includes all the other natural cannabinoids and terpenes found in the plant. Generally, the THC levels are minimal, by law less than 0.2%. People have strong opinions over the % of THC content in the flower, with many saying that THC is necessary for bioavailability. Many studies also have corroborated the ‘bro-science’. Leading to a stronger push for better law-making. Nonetheless, because there is some THC in the ‘legal’ medicine, one can still say it will have an “entourage effect” even though you won’t be intoxicated by the THC, the medicine will have a more holistic benefit.

How is Full Spectrum CBD Oil made?

“There are many ways to skin a cat”…. Some use more sharper tools than others. Industry norms would include solvent extracts such as CO2, Butane or Alcohol. Non-solvent extracts would be Rosin pressed or Bubble hash. In the USA and Europe where cannabis is accessible as a medicine or recreation, Full Spectrum CBD is a normal selection on the shelves. From cured flowers to packaged in a disposable vape. The market has evolved to offer it to people who don’t want to get high but have maximum healing benefits. Inside the recreational spaces, one would normally find CBD products with more than 0.2% THC in them.

What Are The Benefits of Full-Spectrum CBD

A broader range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds may provide additional therapeutic benefits.
May be more effective and potent than the other types of CBD generally derived from Hemp.
Can provide a more ‘natural’ experience, as it closely resembles the original plant composition.

What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?

Broad-spectrum CBD is a middle ground between CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD. It contains a wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds, but with one key difference: zero THC. Generally speaking, this is a man-made process. Although, today one can find strains that can be considered broad spectrum – or just hemp then?

How is it made?

Broad-spectrum CBD is made through a similar extraction process as full-spectrum CBD. After the initial extraction, an additional step is taken to remove the THC content, usually through a process called chromatography or selective distillation. The result is a THC-free product that retains many of the beneficial compounds found in full-spectrum CBD. Broad-spectrum CBD has no detectable levels of THC. This makes it ideal for those who want to experience the benefits of the entourage effect without any exposure to THC, either due to personal preferences, legal restrictions, or employment-related drug testing concerns. Some people are also just very sensitive to THC and Broad Spectrum eliminates the possibility of any intoxication of THC. Remember that we are all different and our body chemistries are not the same.

Broad-spectrum CBD arose as a means to an end in the market. Farmers were stuck with full-spectrum CBD material but THC levels were too high or still present so they could not move any medicine into the market. So they decided to remove the THC. Even though our market is warming up to better trading each year it becomes easier to get your hands on things. Broad-spectrum CBD won’t lose its relevance since there are people that prefer it.

It’s better for animals like dogs that cannot process THC safely…

Benefits of Broad-Spectrum CBD

A wide array of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds that may provide additional wellness advantages
Suitable for individuals who want to avoid THC entirely, while still benefiting from the cannabis plant’s diverse components
May be particularly effective for conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and inflammation, due to the synergistic action of the various plant compounds without THC

What is CBD Isolate?

CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD you can get, it contains only the CBD with no additional cannabinoids, terpenes, or other plant compounds.It does not have any THC content, and is not detectable in drug tests. CBD isolate is a crystalline solid or powder comprising pure CBD and nothing else.

How is CBD Isolate Oil made?

Once again there are many ways to skin the cat. We once wrote an article on THC-A diamonds, to get CBD isolate, the same process can also be used. Others use CO2 and fractional distillation to separate various cannabinoids and terpenes and isolate the CBD compound. I have seen someone make CBD isolate with 5 5-ton rosin pressing machines. Regardless, it takes much effort and time to produce. Making it naturally more expensive. The question in this regard would be, why would it be better if it were less natural? Considering that cannabis is a natural healing plant.

Benefits of CBD Isolate

CBD isolate offers many of the benefits of CBD, but does not benefit from the ‘entourage effect’. Some of the reported benefits include:

Better sleep
Elevates overall health and wellness
Improves mood and mental support
Supports quicker recovery after intense exercise
Does not make you feel “high” or show up in drug tests

Because it is isolated it can be used for a more accurate dosing and hence also target more specific healing. People who lean towards 100% natural processes would not be inclined to try isolated forms of anything, one would assume. It is important to understand the products you use and their origin. We have become very trusting as humans and sometimes we don’t ask critical questions concerning critical matters like our Health.

What should you buy?

Whether it is full-spectrum broad-spectrum or CBD isolate, doing more research will help you determine what is best for you. Most THC users will never even look at a CBD product. FOr those that do, Know your product. This is the best advice I can give. It is not as developed as the THC market nor is there a real understanding for the product. Even though there is less legality around it.

CBD and all its benefits also have flaws in its niche, from fake isolate products to ineffective products with high marketing schemes. Be mindful and consider asking more questions before buying anything CBD. if the person cannot have an open and honest conversation then I wouldn’t bother.

Leave us a comment below

Posted on 12 June 20242 October 2024 by Joe

What is HHC?

HHC (hydroxyhexahydrocannabinol) is a THC relative long known to science, but until recently not often discussed by cannabis users. HHC is a minor cannabinoid; it occurs naturally in cannabis, but in amounts too small to make extraction cost-effective. Since commercial production of HHC is just getting off the ground, it’s still not widely known.

Most cannabinoids can be converted to other cannabinoids by altering the chemistry of the molecules. Like 𝚫-8 THC and 𝚫-10 THC, commercial HHC is made from hemp-derived CBD in a lab through chemical processes. HHC has one major legal advantage over 𝚫-8 and 𝚫-10: it isn’t called THC.

My quick 2 cents…

Is any of this even important to you? I believe so. We need to understand cannabis better. And not being aware of semi-synthetic cannabinoids can leave us open to harm and misinformation. Regular cannabis users are more likely to never encounter HHC because they will most likely opt-in for flower or regular concentrate that they know. But newer medical users, or recreational users will be very open to it all as this is a new world. The industry is booming and there are so many flashy things now, it really is not difficult to buy incorrectly.

How is HHC produced?

It was discovered in the 1940s by chemist Roger Adams. He created HHC by adding hydrogen to the THC molecule and altering its physical properties. The process, called hydrogenation, is first described in a 1947 patent document. Hydrogenation modifies the structure of 𝚫-9 THC by replacing a double bond with two hydrogen atoms, which changes its molecular weight and also makes it more stable. According to Mark Scialdone, a chemist and BR Brands Chief Science Officer, hydrogenation improves “stability and resistance to thermo-oxidative breakdown”—which means HHC has a longer shelf life and is less prone to damage caused by UV light and heat.

Does HHC get you high? Does it have side effects?

This is kind of tricky. Although HHC isn’t technically a THC, it does produce similar effects—if you use enough of it. When it’s produced in the lab, an HHC batch is a mix of active and inactive HHC molecules. The active HHC binds well with your body’s cannabinoid receptors; the others don’t.

Manufacturers haven’t yet figured out a cost-effective way to separate high-potency HHC from its low-potency twin, so commercial HHC—which is a mix of the two forms—may be a waste of money to the consumer. But HHC does have noticeable effects. Reports from users generally describe the HHC high as being somewhere between 𝚫-8 and 𝚫-9 THC.

Pretty much everything we know about HHC’s effects and side effects is anecdotal. That said, users report the same set of side effects familiar to 𝚫-9 THC users: anxiety and paranoia, dry mouth, dry and red eyes, hunger, and insomnia. Personally I think that anyone who smokes real weed won’t have intense effects from this hence why it is an in-between feeling.

Will HHC show up in a drug test?

It appears that HHC may not break down in the body in the same way as THC. Unlike the 𝚫-8, 𝚫-9, and 𝚫-10 forms of THC, there is some evidence that HHC doesn’t metabolize into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is the breakdown substance many drug panels test for.

But that hasn’t been studied and isn’t certain. So far, no one knows for sure that HHC won’t leave evidence of use in your blood, urine or hair. If your employer tests for drug use, we suggest you not risk your job by using HHC.

Does HHC have medical benefits?

It hasn’t been widely studied, unlike more abundant cannabinoids like 𝚫-9 THC or CBD, but there has been some promising research. A 2011 study showed that some synthetic analogs of hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) “strongly inhibited breast cancer cell-induced angiogenesis and tumor growth.” Japanese researchers published a paper in 2007 describing HHC’s impressive pain-blocking capability in mice. But it is probably too early to say whether HHC has great promise as a therapeutic drug.

Is HHC legal and will it stay legal?

Yes, as long as it is hemp-derived and remains under the scheduled THC percentage put forth by the authorities.

Where can HHC be found?

A quick Google search brought up about a dozen online retailers offering a variety of HHC products. Most sellers offer vape carts filled with HHC oil, and many have gummies. Less common but definitely available are disposable HHC vapes, tinctures for oral consumption, and concentrates for dabbing. I first saw a HHC product in 2022, at the Sandton Cannabis Expo. It seems like most CBD stores stock them too now. So finding it is a search away.

In conclusion

If HHC remains legally viable, and especially if it becomes less expensive to manufacture high-potency HHC, this promising cannabinoid will become more available in the diverse cannabis marketplace. Even though HHC is found naturally in the cannabis plant, commercial HHC is made by hydrogenating hemp-derived cannabinoids under pressure with a catalyst like palladium. Making it still a semi-synthetic compound. Something you will have to decide for yourself if you want to ingest.

Posted on 29 May 202431 July 2024 by Joe

The Endocannabinoid System: A Brief Understanding

The endocannabinoid system feature image

Humans have used cannabis for centuries, but only in the last 50 years or so has any scientific understanding emerged as to how cannabis works within the human body. While the discovery of the first plant cannabinoids took place in the 1940s, it was not until 1964 that THC produced by the cannabis plant was first characterised and synthesised by Gaoni and Mechoulam in Israel.

The discovery of THC in 1964 sparked the search for its mechanism of action. Initially, it was postulated that THC and other cannabinoids increased cell membrane permeability. Eventually, however, the permeability hypothesis was disproved, which led to the search for a protein receptor molecule in the body with which THC might interact. The first cannabinoid (CB) receptors in the body were not found until the late 1980s. These receptors comprised a new series of homeostatic regulatory mechanisms within the body, which was named the endocannabinoid system.

Role of the Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system is a very complex regulatory system, broad in its function, and found within all complex animals, from fish to humans. It regulates diverse functions such as memory, digestion, motor function, immune response and inflammation, appetite, pain, blood pressure, bone growth, and the protection of neural tissues. The endocannabinoid system comprises three principal elements: endocannabinoid receptors; specialised molecules called endocannabinoids that interact with those receptors; and enzymes that either synthesise or metabolise these endocannabinoids.

Endocannabinoid Receptors

The two primary subtypes of classical cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system are CB1 and CB2. These receptors are distributed throughout the central nervous and immune systems and within many other tissues, including the brain, gastrointestinal system, reproductive and urinary tracts, spleen, endocrine system, heart, and circulatory system. Many of the physiological effects of cannabis were first believed to be caused by the interaction of phytocannabinoids with the CB1 and CB2 receptors.

Because the THC family of cannabinoids are the only compounds that robustly activate the CB1 receptor, some have even suggested that its name be changed from CB1 to the THC receptor. It is now known that cannabinoid interactions extend beyond the CB1 and CB2 receptors, however, and interact with other CB-type and related receptors and ion channels.

These include the so-called orphan CB receptors GPR55, GPR18, and GPR119; the transient receptor potential vanilloid-type channel (TRPV1, associated with pain transmission and typically activated by temperatures over 109ºF/43ºC, hot peppers or horseradish, and also known as the capsaicin receptor); and the peroxisome proliferator-activated nuclear receptors (PPAR-alpha and – gamma regulate important metabolic functions involving fatty acid storage, glucose metabolism, and development and progression of malignancies).

Of these, other CB-type receptors, the orphan or candidate cannabinoid receptors are becoming increasingly important to the understanding of the endocannabinoid system. These receptors are so-called “orphans” because their endogenous ligands (molecules that bind to larger molecules, such as receptors) have not been conclusively identified.

The orphan CB receptors have the following functions:

GPR55 is a receptor linked to energy homeostasis and metabolic dysregulation associated with diabetes and obesity.
GPR18 regulates disparate physiological functions ranging from intraocular pressure to cellular migration, including endometriosis and some forms of metastatic disease.
GPR30 responds to estrogen with rapid signalling.
GPR119 functions as a “fat sensor” to reduce food intake and weight gain.

Endocannabinoid Activity

The CB1 receptor is expressed throughout the brain, where endocannabinoids and CB1 combine to form a “circuit breaker,” which modulates the release of both inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters across the synapse. It is the activation of the CB1 receptor that is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis since THC mimics an endocannabinoid by binding to this receptor.

The list of brain functions that are affected by the endocannabinoid system is enormous:

Decision-making, cognition, emotions, learning, and memory, as well as regulation of bodily movement, anxiety, stress, fear, pain, body temperature, appetite, sense of reinforcement or reward, blood-brain permeability, and motor control. One brain region that does not express many CB1 receptors is the brain stem, responsible for respiration and circulation, which is a primary reason why cannabis overdoses do not cause respiratory depression and death, both of which are possible with opioid overdoses. Until a few years ago, it was believed that CB2 receptors were only primarily found in immune and blood cells, tonsils, and the spleen.

From these sites, CB2 receptors controlled the release of cytokines (immunoregulatory proteins) linked to inflammation and general immune function throughout the body. Recently, with the advent of better probes and methods, CB2 expression has been identified in key regions of the brain, including the hippocampus. CB2 has been shown to modulate midbrain reward circuitry, such as the self-administration of cocaine. In the hippocampus, CB2 receptors appear to modulate self-activity and information flow between brain networks, potentially assisting in the selection of inputs that may guide complex behaviours.

Targeting the Endocannabinoid System with Drugs

The endocannabinoid system as a target for drug delivery goes well beyond the use of cannabis. Cannabinoid-based medicines can either enhance or interfere with the endocannabinoid system’s balancing act, by targeting receptors, the endocannabinoids, or the enzymes that synthesize or degrade those endocannabinoids. However, designing drugs that interact safely with the endocannabinoid system is difficult, and drugs that antagonize or interfere with the function of cannabinoid receptors have met with decidedly mixed success.

Regardless, the positives outweigh the negatives in that regard and with ongoing research our dosing and titrations will only get better.

Have you ever heard of the Endocannabinoid system? Let us know your thoughts below.