Hexahydrocannabinol on the Light Cannabis Market: The Latest New Entry

Introduction: Hexahydrocannabinols (HHCs), referred to as (9R)-HHC and (9S)-HHC diastereoisomers, are poorly studied cannabinoids naturally found in small concentrations in the pollen and the seeds of the hemp plants. Aim: In this study, for the first time, we describe the finding of (9R)-HHC and (9S)-HHC in two commercialized hemp derived products. Methods: The achievement of reference standards by semisynthetic or isolation approach allows us to develop and validate a gas chromatography mass spectrometry method for the identification and quantification of HHCs in hemp-derived resin.Results: The two analyzed samples showed percentage of 42.5 and 41.5 for (9R)-HHC and of 23.6 and 23.6 for (9S)-HHC. Conclusions: Despite the lack of in-depth studies about HHCs activity, potency, toxicity, and safety, these cannabinoids are emerging on the light-cannabis (hemp) market probably because legislations still do not clearly regulate them. Since analytical assay for hemp-derived products usually include only delta(9)-THC, THC-A, CBD, and CBD-A, a thorough investigation could be carried out to reveal the possible addition of new compounds that might be a matter of safety.

Automated summary

In this study, the presence of (9R)-HHC and (9S)-HHC is reported in two commercialized hemp derived products for the first time. A gas chromatography mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for the identification and quantification of HHCs in hemp-derived resin. Despite the limited research on the activity and safety of HHCs, they are still emerging in the light-cannabis market, possibly due to lack of clear regulations. Therefore, a comprehensive analysis of hemp-derived products is necessary to ensure their safety.