“What Is HHCP? Everything You Need to Know About This Powerful Cannabinoid”
1. Introduction to HHCP
2. How HHCP Works in the Body
3. HHCP vs. Other Cannabinoids
4. Potential Benefits of HHCP
5. Possible Side Effects and Risks
6. HHCP Legality
7. How to Use HHCP
8. Future Research and Developments
9. Conclusion
1. Introduction
The world of cannabinoids is rapidly expanding, with new compounds being discovered and synthesized to enhance therapeutic and recreational experiences. One such cannabinoid that has gained attention in recent years is Hexahydrocannabiphorol (HHCP).
HHCP is a hydrogenated derivative of THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol), which itself is a potent analog of Delta-9-THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Early research and anecdotal reports suggest that HHCP may be significantly more potent than traditional THC, offering stronger effects and potential medical benefits.
✅Chemical Structure
HHCP (Hexahydrocannabiphorol) is a hydrogenated form of THCP, meaning it has undergone a chemical process that adds hydrogen atoms to its structure. This modification enhances its stability and may increase its binding affinity to cannabinoid receptors.
Like THCP, HHCP has a longer alkyl side chain (7 carbon atoms) compared to Delta-9-THC (5 carbon atoms), which is believed to contribute to its heightened potency.
✅How It Differs from THC and THCP
· THC (Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol): The most well-known psychoactive cannabinoid, responsible for the "high" in cannabis.
· THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol): A naturally occurring but rare cannabinoid, estimated to be 30 times more potent than Delta-9-THC due to its extended side chain.
· HHCP (Hexahydrocannabiphorol): A hydrogenated derivative of THCP, potentially offering even greater stability and potency.
Early reports suggest HHCP may be more potent than THCP, though more research is needed to confirm this.
2. How HHCP Works in the Body
✅The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) – A Quick Primer
What Is the ECS?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulates:
· Mood
· Pain perception
· Appetite
· Sleep cycles
It consists of:
· CB1 receptors (mostly in the brain & nervous system)
· CB2 receptors (mostly in immune cells & peripheral organs)
Role of CB1 and CB2 Receptors
· CB1 activation → Psychoactive effects (euphoria, altered perception)
· CB2 activation → Anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving effects
HHCP interacts with both receptors, but its strong CB1 binding makes it extremely psychoactive.
✅How HHCP Binds to Cannabinoid Receptors
Why HHCP’s 7-Carbon Chain Matters
Research on THCP (HHCP’s parent compound) found that its extended side chain allows it to bind 33x more effectively to CB1 receptors than THC.
Since HHCP is hydrogenated THCP, it may bind even more efficiently, leading to stronger effects at lower doses.
CB1 vs. CB2 Activation – Psychoactive vs. Therapeutic Effects
· CB1 Dominance → Strong high, sedation, potential anxiety at high doses
· CB2 Influence → Possible pain relief, anti-inflammatory benefits
This dual action explains why HHCP is both intensely psychoactive and potentially therapeutic.
✅HHCP’s Effects on the Brain and Body
Euphoria & Psychoactive Intensity
Users report:
· Stronger body high than THC
· Deep relaxation, sometimes overwhelming for beginners
· Longer-lasting euphoria (6+ hours)
Pain Relief & Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Early anecdotal evidence suggests HHCP may help with:
· Chronic pain (neuropathy, arthritis)
· Muscle spasms
· Inflammation-related conditions
Sedation & Sleep Impact
Many users find HHCP extremely sedating, making it potentially useful for:
· Insomnia
· Sleep maintenance
· Relaxation before bed
✅Metabolism & Duration of Effects
How Long Does HHCP Last?
Consumption Method |
Onset Time |
Peak Effects |
Duration |
Vaping |
5-15 min |
30-60 min |
4-6 hours |
Edibles |
45-120 min |
2-3 hours |
8+ hours |
Tinctures |
15-45 min |
1-2 hours |
6-8 hours |
Factors That Influence Its Effects:
· Dosage (HHCP is potent even in small amounts)
· Tolerance (frequent use may require higher doses)
· Individual metabolism (some process cannabinoids faster)
3. HHCP vs. Other Cannabinoids
A. HHCP vs. THC (Delta-9 & Delta-8)
Potency Comparison:
· Delta-9-THC: The standard for cannabis potency (~1x strength).
· Delta-8-THC: About 50-70% as strong as Delta-9.
· HHCP: Estimated to be 10-30x stronger than Delta-9.
Winner for Potency: HHCP by a huge margin.
Effects: Euphoria, Sedation, Duration:
Cannabinoid |
Euphoria |
Sedation |
Duration |
Delta-9-THC |
Strong |
Moderate |
3-6 hours |
Delta-8-THC |
Mild |
Relaxing |
2-5 hours |
HHCP |
Extreme |
Heavy |
6-8+ hours |
Best for:
· Recreational intensity → HHCP
· Milder experience → Delta-8
· Balanced high → Delta-9
Legal Differences:
· Delta-9: Federally illegal (Schedule I), legal in some states.
· Delta-8: Federally legal (if hemp-derived), banned in some states.
· HHCP: Exists in a legal gray area (similar to Delta-8).
B. HHCP vs. THCP
Chemical Structure Differences
· THCP: Naturally occurring, has a 7-carbon side chain (vs. THC’s 5-carbon chain).
· HHCP: Hydrogenated THCP, making it more stable and possibly stronger.
Which Is Stronger?
· THCP is already ~30x stronger than Delta-9-THC.
· HHCP may be even more potent due to hydrogenation.
Anecdotal Reports:
· THCP → More cerebral, euphoric.
· HHCP → More physically sedating.
Medical Potential
Both show promise for:
· Chronic pain relief
· Insomnia
· Appetite stimulation
But HHCP’s longer duration could make it better for all-night pain/sleep relief.
C. HHCP vs. HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol)
Hydrogenation Process Explained:
· HHC: Hydrogenated Delta-9-THC.
· HHCP: Hydrogenated THCP (a stronger base molecule).
Psychoactive Strength:
· HHC: About 70-80% as strong as Delta-9-THC.
· HHCP: Far stronger, possibly 10-30x Delta-9.
User Experiences:
Cannabinoid |
High Type |
Best For |
HHC |
Clear-headed, functional |
Daytime use, mild relaxation |
HHCP |
Heavy, long-lasting |
Nighttime, pain relief, deep sleep |
Winner for Intensity: HHCP.
Winner for Functionality: HHC.
D. HHCP vs. CBD & CBG
Psychoactive vs. Non-Psychoactive Effects
· HHCP: Strongly psychoactive (euphoria, sedation).
· CBD/CBG: No intoxicating effects.
Medical Benefits Compared:
Cannabinoid |
Pain Relief |
Anxiety Help |
Sleep Aid |
HHCP |
✅ Strong |
❌ (Can cause anxiety) |
✅ Excellent |
CBD |
✅ Mild |
✅ Calming |
✅ Mild |
CBG |
✅ Moderate |
✅ Focus-enhancing |
❌ Not sedating |
Best for Anxiety: CBD.
Best for Sleep/Pain: HHCP.
E. HHCP vs. Other THC Variants (Delta-10, THC-O, THCV)
Delta-10-THC:
· Effects: Uplifting, energetic.
· Compared to HHCP: Much weaker, opposite effects.
THC-O Acetate:
· Potency: ~3x Delta-9 (still weaker than HHCP).
· Effects: Spiritual, psychedelic-like.
THCV:
· Effects: Stimulating, suppresses appetite.
· Compared to HHCP: Opposite in almost every way.
Best for Energy: Delta-10 or THCV.
Best for Sedation: HHCP.
4. Potential Benefits of HHCP
What are the potential benefits of HHCP? Could this powerful cannabinoid offer therapeutic advantages for pain relief, anxiety, sleep disorders, and more?
A. HHCP for Chronic Pain Relief
How HHCP Interacts with Pain Receptors
HHCP’s potency comes from its strong binding affinity to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
· CB1 receptors (brain & nervous system) help modulate pain perception.
· CB2 receptors (immune cells) reduce inflammation, a key factor in chronic pain.
Because HHCP has a 7-carbon side chain (unlike THC’s 5-carbon chain), it may bind more effectively, providing longer-lasting relief.
Comparison to Other Pain-Relief Options
Treatment |
Effectiveness |
Side Effects |
HHCP |
Potentially strong, long-lasting |
Psychoactivity, dry mouth |
THC |
Moderate pain relief |
Anxiety, paranoia at high doses |
CBD |
Mild to moderate |
Minimal side effects |
Opioids |
Very strong |
High addiction risk, dangerous side effects |
Anecdotal Evidence:
· Many users report better pain relief than THC, especially for nerve pain and arthritis.
· Effects last 6-8 hours, reducing the need for frequent redosing.
Best for:
· Neuropathic pain
· Fibromyalgia
· Inflammatory conditions (arthritis, IBS)
B. HHCP for Anxiety and Stress
Calming Effects vs. Potential Anxiety Risks
While low to moderate doses of HHCP may provide deep relaxation, high doses can increase anxiety in some users.
· Low dose (1-5mg): Promotes calmness, reduces overthinking.
· High dose (10mg+): May cause racing thoughts or paranoia.
Comparison to Other Anti-Anxiety Cannabinoids
Cannabinoid |
Anxiety Relief |
Psychoactive? |
HHCP |
✅ (Low doses) |
✅ Strong |
THC |
❌ (Can worsen anxiety) |
✅ Yes |
CBD |
✅ Best for anxiety |
❌ No |
HHC |
✅ Mild relaxation |
✅ Mild |
User Experiences:
· Some find HHCP more calming than THC due to its heavy body effects.
· Best consumed in a comfortable setting to avoid stress triggers.
Best for:
· Stress relief after work
· Social anxiety (in controlled doses)
C. HHCP as a Sleep Aid
Why It May Be Better Than Traditional THC
HHCP’s extended duration and sedating effects make it a potential game-changer for insomnia.
· THC helps with sleep but often wears off in 3-4 hours.
· HHCP lasts 6-8+ hours, potentially preventing nighttime awakenings.
User Experiences with Insomnia
· Many report falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer.
· Some compare it to stronger sedatives (but without prescription side effects).
Best Consumption Method:
· Edibles or tinctures (longer-lasting than vaping).
Best for:
· Chronic insomnia
· Restless leg syndrome
· Nighttime pain disrupting sleep
D. HHCP for Appetite Stimulation
Potential Use for Eating Disorders & Chemotherapy
Like THC, HHCP may stimulate hunger, making it useful for:
· Cancer patients dealing with chemo-induced nausea.
· HIV/AIDS patients needing weight gain.
· Anorexia or appetite loss disorders.
Anecdotal Reports:
· Users describe stronger "munchies" than THC.
· Effects last longer, reducing the need for frequent dosing.
Best for:
· Medical patients struggling with appetite
· Those using cannabis for weight management
E. Neuroprotective and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Early Research on Long-Term Benefits
While no direct HHCP studies exist, research on similar cannabinoids suggests:
· Neuroprotection: May help with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and TBI.
· Anti-inflammatory: Could benefit autoimmune diseases (MS, Crohn’s).
Caution: More research is needed before claiming medical efficacy.
G. Potential Risks and Side Effects
Overconsumption Concerns:
· Extreme sedation (can impair functioning)
· Anxiety/paranoia at high doses
· Dry mouth, red eyes, dizziness
Lack of Clinical Studies:
· No long-term safety data
· Possible tolerance buildup
Safety Tip: Start with 1-3mg and increase slowly.
5. Possible Side Effects and Risks
✅Most Common Side Effects of HHCP
Short-Term Physical Effects
Users most frequently report:
· Dry mouth (more severe than with regular cannabis)
· Red, bloodshot eyes
· Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
· Dizziness or lightheadedness
· Coordination problems and motor impairment
· Nausea (especially when overconsumed)
Psychological Reactions
Common mental/emotional effects include:
· Short-term memory impairment
· Time distortion (minutes feel like hours)
· Mental fog the next day
· Emotional hypersensitivity
· Vivid dreams or nightmares (when used before sleep)
Duration of Unwanted Effects
Unlike regular THC (3-6 hour duration):
· Peak effects last 2-4 hours
· Noticeable impairment continues 6-8 hours
· Residual effects may persist 12+ hours
· Next-day grogginess is common with higher doses
✅Serious Risks and Potential Dangers
Overconsumption and "Greening Out"
HHCP makes overdosing easier due to:
· Extreme potency - easy to take too much
· Delayed edible onset (2+ hours) leading to redosing mistakes
· Long duration means being stuck in discomfort for hours
Symptoms of HHCP overconsumption:
· Severe anxiety/panic attacks
· Nausea and vomiting
· Derealization/depersonalization
· Paranoia and irrational thoughts
· Extreme sedation (can't stay awake)
Risk of Accidents and Impaired Functioning
HHCP's strong effects create dangers like:
· Driving impairment (lasts much longer than alcohol)
· Increased fall risk (severe motor control reduction)
· Poor decision-making during intoxication
Potential for Anxiety and Paranoia
While some find HHCP relaxing, others experience:
· Racing thoughts
· Social anxiety amplification
· Existential dread (especially at high doses)
· Panic attacks in sensitive individuals
✅Long-Term Safety Concerns
Tolerance Development
· Builds faster than with regular THC
· May require higher doses for same effects
· Could reduce effectiveness of medical cannabis
Potential for Dependence
While not physically addictive like opioids:
· Psychological dependence is possible
· Withdrawal symptoms may include:
o Irritability
o Sleep disturbances
o Reduced appetite
o Mood swings
Unknown Effects of Chronic Use
Lack of research means we don't know about:
· Cognitive impacts with long-term use
· Cardiovascular effects of frequent use
· Mental health consequences over time
✅Who Should Avoid HHCP?
First-Time Cannabis Users
· Too intense for beginners
· Start with CBD or low-THC products first
Individuals With Certain Medical Conditions
Those with:
· Heart conditions (risk of tachycardia)
· Psychiatric disorders (may worsen symptoms)
· Low blood pressure (can cause dizziness)
· Seizure disorders (potential trigger)
Those Taking Specific Medications
HHCP may interact with:
· Blood thinners
· Blood pressure medications
· Antidepressants/antipsychotics
· Sedatives and sleep aids
Always consult a doctor before mixing with medications
✅How to Minimize Risks When Using HHCP
Proper Dosing Guidelines
· First-time users: 1-2mg max
· Experienced users: 2-5mg
· High tolerance: 5-10mg (still very strong)
Remember: You can always take more, but can't take less
Safe Consumption Methods:
Method |
Onset |
Duration |
Risk Level |
Vaping |
5-15 min |
3-5 hours |
Medium |
Edibles |
45-120 min |
8+ hours |
High |
Tinctures |
15-45 min |
6-8 hours |
Medium |
Avoid dabbing or high-dose edibles as a beginner
6. HHCP Legality
Is HHCP legal in Europe? What about the UK? The answer is complex, as regulations vary by country and are constantly changing.
HHCP Legality in the European Union (EU)
The EU has complex and fragmented cannabis laws, with each country interpreting regulations differently. However, two key frameworks affect HHCP’s legality:
A. EU Novel Food Regulations
· The EU Novel Food Catalogue requires approval for any new food or supplement not consumed before 1997.
· HHCP is not listed, meaning it cannot be legally sold as a consumable product without authorization.
· Many hemp-derived cannabinoids (like CBD isolates, Delta-8, and HHC) have faced bans under this rule.
B. Psychoactive Substances Laws
· Some EU countries ban all psychoactive cannabinoids unless explicitly approved (e.g., medical THC).
· Since HHCP is intoxicating, it could be classified as an illegal narcotic in stricter nations.
Country-by-Country Breakdown
✅ Germany
· Current Status: Unclear, but likely restricted
· Germany allows CBD and some hemp-derived cannabinoids, but THC analogs (like HHCP) may fall under narcotics laws.
· After the 2024 cannabis partial legalization, rules may shift, but synthetic/semi-synthetic cannabinoids remain risky.
✅ France
· Current Status: Likely illegal
· France has strict anti-cannabis laws, banning all psychoactive hemp derivatives (including HHC, THCP).
· HHCP would almost certainly be treated the same.
✅ Spain
· Current Status: Gray area, but high risk
· Spain tolerates private cannabis use, but synthetic cannabinoids are often banned.
· THC analogs (HHCP, THCP) could be considered illegal.
✅ Italy
· Current Status: Likely illegal
· Italy bans all synthetic cannabinoids (including HHC), so HHCP would likely be prohibited.
✅ Netherlands
· Current Status: Gray area, but not explicitly banned
· The Netherlands is lenient with cannabis, but new synthetic cannabinoids may be restricted.
· HHCP could be sold in smartshops, but future crackdowns are possible.
✅ Switzerland
· Current Status: Possibly legal (for now)
· Switzerland allows <1% THC in hemp products, and HHC is currently legal.
· HHCP may be tolerated, but authorities could reclassify it.
Verdict:
HHCP is mostly illegal or in a gray area across the EU, with Switzerland and the Netherlands being possible exceptions.
C. HHCP Legality in the United Kingdom (UK)
The UK has some of the strictest drug laws in Europe, making HHCP’s status clear:
Psychoactive Substances Act (2016):
· This law bans all psychoactive substances unless explicitly exempt (e.g., alcohol, nicotine, caffeine).
· HHCP is psychoactive, meaning it’s automatically illegal unless approved (which it isn’t).
Enforcement & Risks:
· UK authorities have cracked down on HHC, THCP, and similar synthetics.
· Selling or possessing HHCP could lead to fines or criminal charges.
7. How to Use HHCP
A. Different Ways to Consume HHCP
HHCP comes in various forms, each with different onset times, duration, and intensity.
✅HHCP Vapes & Disposables
· Best for: Fast-acting effects
· Onset: 1-5 minutes
· Duration: 2-4 hours
· Pros: Easy to dose, portable, discreet
· Cons: Effects don’t last as long as edibles
How to Use:
· Start with 1-2 small puffs.
· Wait 10-15 minutes before taking more.
· Avoid chain-vaping—HHCP can creep up and become overwhelming.
✅HHCP Edibles (Gummies, Chocolates, Capsules)
· Best for: Long-lasting, intense effects
· Onset: 30-90 minutes (slower digestion)
· Duration: 6-12 hours
· Pros: Strong body high, great for pain/sleep
· Cons: Harder to dose; delayed effects can lead to overconsumption
How to Use:
· Start with 1-2mg (beginners) or 5mg (experienced users).
· Wait at least 2 hours before redosing.
· Take with food for better absorption.
✅HHCP Tinctures & Oils
· Best for: Precise dosing, sublingual absorption
· Onset: 15-45 minutes (under the tongue)
· Duration: 4-8 hours
· Pros: Easy to adjust dosage, discreet
· Cons: Taste may be strong
How to Use:
· Place 1-2 drops (or 0.5mL) under the tongue.
· Hold for 30-60 seconds before swallowing.
· Start low—effects can be stronger than expected.
✅HHCP Flower & Pre-Rolls
· Best for: Smokers who want a traditional experience
· Onset: 1-5 minutes
· Duration: 2-5 hours
· Pros: Familiar method, fast-acting
· Cons: Harsh on lungs, dosing is less precise
How to Use:
· Take 1-2 small puffs and wait.
· HHCP flower is sprayed or infused, so potency varies.
✅HHCP Dabs & Concentrates
· Best for: Experienced users seeking extreme potency
· Onset: Instant (1-3 minutes)
· Duration: 3-6 hours
· Pros: Strongest effects, fast relief
· Cons: Requires a dab rig, easy to overdo
How to Use:
· Use a rice-grain-sized amount.
· Heat dab rig, inhale slowly.
· Have a sober sitter if trying for the first time.
C. HHCP Dosage Guide (Beginner to Advanced)
Because HHCP is so strong, starting with a tiny dose is crucial.
HHCP Dosage Chart:
Experience Level |
Dosage (Edibles/Tinctures) |
Vaping/Dabbing |
First-Time User |
0.5-1mg |
1 small puff |
Beginner |
1-2mg |
1-2 puffs |
Intermediate |
2-5mg |
2-3 puffs |
Advanced User |
5-10mg+ |
3+ puffs (caution!) |
⚠ Warning:
· Edibles can take 2+ hours to peak—do NOT redose too soon!
· Dabbing/vaping hits faster—wait 10+ minutes between puffs.
D. How Long Do HHCP Effects Last?
Method |
Onset Time |
Peak Effects |
Total Duration |
Vaping |
1-5 min |
10-30 min |
2-4 hours |
Edibles |
30-90 min |
2-3 hours |
6-12 hours |
Tinctures |
15-45 min |
1-2 hours |
4-8 hours |
Dabs |
1-3 min |
5-20 min |
3-6 hours |
Tip: HHCP’s effects last longer than most cannabinoids, so plan accordingly.
E. Safety Tips & Potential Side Effects
✅Possible Side Effects (If Overconsumed)
❌ Extreme drowsiness
❌ Dry mouth & red eyes
❌ Anxiety or paranoia
❌ Increased heart rate
✅How to Avoid a Bad Experience
✔ Start with a microdose (1mg or less if new).
✔ Use in a safe, comfortable environment.
✔ Avoid mixing with alcohol or other drugs.
✔ Stay hydrated and have CBD on hand (can counteract too much HHCP).
✅What to Do If You Take Too Much HHCP
· Stay calm—the effects will pass.
· Drink water & eat snacks (helps metabolize THC).
· Take CBD (reduces THC’s intensity).
· Rest in a quiet place until it wears off.
8. Future Research and Developments
Given the rapid rise of HHCP, what does the future hold for this cannabinoid?
✅More Clinical Studies Needed
· Current knowledge is based on anecdotal reports and chemical predictions—not clinical trials.
· Future research should explore:
o Exact potency and binding affinity
o Long-term safety profile
o Therapeutic potential (pain, anxiety, sleep)
✅Pharmaceutical Applications
· If proven effective, HHCP could be developed into prescription medications for pain or neurological disorders.
· Pharmaceutical companies may explore patented synthetic versions.
✅Improved Extraction and Synthesis
· As demand grows, manufacturers will refine more efficient and purer production methods.
· This could lead to better-tested, higher-quality HHCP products.
✅Regulatory Changes
· The DEA or FDA may reclassify HHCP if it becomes widely abused.
· Clearer guidelines on hemp-derived cannabinoids are expected in the coming years.
✅Consumer Product Innovation
· Expect to see HHCP vapes, edibles, and tinctures hitting the market.
· Companies may blend HHCP with other cannabinoids (CBD, CBG) for balanced effects.
9. Conclusion
HHCP (Hexahydrocannabiphorol) is one of the most potent cannabinoids discovered so far, offering intense psychoactive effects and potential therapeutic benefits. As a hydrogenated derivative of THCP, it boasts a unique chemical structure that enhances its binding affinity to CB1 and CB2 receptors, making it significantly stronger than traditional THC.
✅Key Takeaways:
✅ Extremely Potent – HHCP may be 10-30x stronger than Delta-9-THC, with longer-lasting effects.
✅ Potential Benefits – Early reports suggest it may help with chronic pain, insomnia, and appetite stimulation.
✅ Legal Gray Area – HHCP’s legality varies by region, with most EU countries and the UK likely banning it under synthetic cannabinoid laws.
✅ Risks & Side Effects – Due to its strength, overconsumption can lead to anxiety, sedation, and long-lasting impairment.
✅ Future Potential – More research is needed, but HHCP could become a key player in medical and recreational cannabis markets.
While HHCP shows promise, users should exercise caution—starting with low doses (1-2mg) and avoiding it if inexperienced with strong cannabinoids. As regulations and research evolve, we may see HHCP refined into a valuable therapeutic option. For now, it remains a powerful but high-risk cannabinoid best suited for experienced consumers.
Here you can find cannabis products available in Europe.
References:
1. Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: Potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology.
2. Pertwee, R. G. (2008). The diverse CB1 and CB2 receptor pharmacology of three plant cannabinoids: Δ9-THC, CBD, and CBN. British Journal of Pharmacology.
3. European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA). Synthetic cannabinoids in Europe.
4. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Controlled Substances Act – THC Analogues.
5. Anecdotal user reports from Reddit (r/altcannabinoids) and cannabis forums.
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