What is HHC - The New Cannabinoid on the Market
Like THC analogs Delta-8 and Delta-10, HHC is derived from hemp. HHC stands for hydroxyhexahydrocannabinol and is a hydrogenated form of THC. Hydrogenation is used to add extra hydrogen. This process is used in other products like margarine that has hydrogenated vegetable oil. While HHC is naturally occurring, it must be made in a lab in order to make it at high enough concentrations to create products. HHC usually has very low concentrations in the plant.
Anecdotally, there is evidence that HHC won’t show up on a drug test. However, there is no hard evidence to support this claim, so it's best not to trust it if you are required to pass a test.
The Effects and Benefits of HHC
In regards to effects, HHC is said to be THC-like. Experiences from HHC will vary between products and sometimes even between batches. Due to the manufacturing process, two different HHC molecules occur, one that actively binds to our endocannabinoid receptors, and one that does not. With that being said, it is important proper product testing is completed on all manufactured goods for consumption. Finding a safe and reliable product source is imperative to consumer safety - companies that use a third-party lab to test their products to ensure the appropriate amount of active and inactive HHC molecules are present.
HHC is said to be less potent than Delta-9 THC but more potent than Delta-8. You can learn more about the differences of HHC and Delta 9 THC in our blog post, The Deltas: Delta 8 THC, Delta 10 THC, THC-O and HHC.
Potential benefits may include:
- Managing chronic pain
- Reducing inflammation
- Promoting deeper, more restorative sleep
- Alleviate Nausea/Vomiting
- May help alleviate anxiousness, however, may also increase anxiousness.
Negative reported side effects include (and are comparable to D9 profile)
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Rapid heart rate
- Dizziness/confusion
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Paranoia
In order to get more insight to the effects of HHC, I had a conversation with Nathan who started using HHC a couple months ago. Below, you will find that conversation where he describes his experience with HHC products; including those by MediDrip, which you can find in our stores now.
- Q: How long have you been using HHC?
- A: “I have been using HHC carts for a couple months now.”
- Q: What do you use it for?
- A: “I use it for relaxation, and anxiety relief.”
- Q: How does HHC compare to other cannabinoids?
- A: “HHC is very similar to THC. The differences aren’t very distinct, it seems to be the closest thing to THC without being the real thing. Comparing it to Delta-8 THC carts, I would say that HHC carts taste pretty similar. However, the HHC is smoother than Delta-8 THC, hits smoother, and doesn't get clogged in the cartridge. I also cough less with the HHC in comparison.”
- Q: How did you like the MediDrip (Girl Scout Cookies) cart you tried regarding effect, taste, quality etc?
- A: “I have tried three brands, including MediDrip. I would rate the MediDrip the highest, because the flavor was good and the effects were decent. Some others were stronger but had a very unpleasant taste.
- Q: Would you recommend that other people try HHC?
- A: “For people more experienced with THC use, I would definitely recommend that they give it a try.”
To conclude, HHC is a psychoactive component that is very similar to THC in its effects. It is naturally occurring, but to have enough of it to make products, it must be lab created. If you are experienced with THC use and are interested in giving alternative cannabinoids a try, HHC may be a great option for you!
References
Daily CBD. (2021, September 3). What is HHC? hydrogenated cannabinoids & apocalypse-ready THC. Daily CBD. Retrieved October 19, 2021, from https://dailycbd.com/en/hhc/.
Levenson, M. S. (2021, October 12). What is HHC? Leafly. Retrieved October 19, 2021, from https://www.leafly.com/news/strains-products/what-is-hhc.