Cannabis Science

What is PHC Cannabinoid?

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There’s a new cannabinoid that’s getting everyone talking, PHC. But what is PHC cannabinoid? If you’ve seen people talking about it online or heard about it from friends but still aren’t sure what it is, don’t worry. Here’s what you need to know about PHC. 

Photo: Unsplash 

What is PHC?

PHC, otherwise known as Hydrox4phc, is a hemp-derived cannabinoid. There isn’t much information on PHC; however, it’s quickly getting popular in the stoner community. The appeal of PHC is that it provides a really long high when smoked. 

Let’s dig a little deeper into the science of this cannabinoid. Binod, a PHC manufacturer, says. “PHC is a derivative of delta 9o, an acetate version of delta 9 that is made using a unique process that allows the acetate molecule to metabolize once entering the body, leaving behind THC that’s no different from the delta 9 extracted from cannabis.”

Binoid claims that using PHC converts to 99% THC, resulting in a long high comparable to edibles. They describe the high as “euphoric yet soothing.” In addition to that, they claim you’ll be able to release tension and feel the high in not only your mind but your body. 

One YouTuber, Craft Cannabis Culture, took a hit of this cannabinoid for the first time and documented their experience on camera. Upon the first couple of hits, they described it as fruity and sweet and without any harshness. In addition to that, they described feeling a “head change.”

Craft Cannabis Culture also did a follow-up video where they went into more detail about the high. They described the high as a “full body euphoria.”

Full disclosure, they were using a product that wasn’t pure PHC but a mixture including delta 8 THC. However, they concluded that the product came “very very close to a true delta 9 THC.” 

If you’re wondering, you can get PHC products in various forms, including tinctures, vapes, and edibles. 

Is it Legal?

The best thing to do is to double-check the laws in your local area. However, according to Veriheal, it may be illegal in the following states:

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • Colorado
  • Delaware
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Iowa
  • Mississippi
  • Montana
  • Nevada
  • New York
  • North Dakota
  • Oregon
  • Rhode Island
  • Utah
  • Vermont
  • Washington

The reason why this cannabinoid may be illegal in these states is that it’s made from synthetic processes and it’s psychoactive. These states have banned similar compounds. 

Is PHC Safe?

We don’t know a lot about PHC. However, if you get a product containing this cannabinoid from a reputable source, then chances are it is safe for consumption. 

We recommend you start with a low dose since it’s new to you, and you don’t know how you’ll react. Binoid also says, “because the compound is strong we suggest smaller dosages first then taking higher doses after time once you get comfortable with the compound and effects.” They recommend beginners start with a dose between 1mg and 20mg. 

Naturally, there are side effects; some are less pleasant than others. For example, while you may experience a long pleasurable high, you may end up with other side effects common to THC consumption such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Dry mouth
  • Red eyes
  • Increased heart rate 
  • Headache 
  • Motor skill issues

At the same time, not everyone is sold on synthetic marijuana or cannabinoids. Some experts find them to be dangerous and caution people from using them. 

Will PHC Show Up On a Drug Test?

Absolutely. Since PHC is converted into delta 9 THC, it will absolutely show up on your drug tests. Your body breaks down THC to THC-COOH, which is exactly what these kinds of tests look for. 

As a matter of fact, some sources even say it’s more likely to show up on your test than if you had used delta-9 THC. Binoid says, “Because PHC is particularly potent and is very similar to Delta 9, there’s good reason to believe that it’s actually more likely to fail a drug test after taking this cannabinoid than it is after taking delta 9 THC.”

Therefore, if you have a test coming up, it’s best to let significant time pass between your test and your weed consumption. The time you need to abstain depends on the type of test you have coming up and how often you use weed. For more information, you can check out our blog post about how long weed stays in your body. 

Takeaway

So, what is PHC cannabinoid? Well, it’s a cannabinoid made in a lab that converts to delta 9 THC when consumed. The makers of this cannabinoid and some people who use it claim that it provides a long and pleasant high comparable to edibles. You can find PHC products at reputable stores, which come in a wide variety, including edibles and tinctures. Unfortunately, there is not much information on this cannabinoid, so it’s hard to make a proper assessment or recommendation. If you try it out for yourself, start with a low dose to see how your body reacts.  

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About Trevann

Trevann is Stoner Rotation’s Jamaica-based lead writer for the Science section of our cannabis blog. She graduated with honors receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Biology from the University of West Indies, Mona. For the last three years, she has covered some of the biggest questions around cannabis and health underpinned with research from supporting studies, medical journals and scholarly articles. Got something on your mind? You can reach her at [email protected].