What is HHC?

HHC is the acronym for hexahydrocannabinol, a hemp-derived compound that acts as an analog for THC. Such analogs are common among hemp cannabinoids and include delta-8 and -9 THC. Simply put, THC analogs are molecular compounds that have a similar structure and similar effects to THC.

HHC naturally occurs in the cannabis plant and can technically be derived as such. However, since cannabis holds such small amounts of HHC, most manufacturers must carry out a complicated process to ensure products have proper potencies.

This involves a hydrogenation procedure where hydrogen atoms are added to a chemical structure as a means of stabilizing it. When it comes to HHC, most manufacturers incorporate nickel or palladium and high pressure as a catalyst.

As a result, HHC’s chemical structure breaks down and is restored to hydrogen. This allows the manufacturer to preserve the potency of the cannabinoid and supply it to users in high concentrations. The difficulty is that even though HHC can be effective in inducing psychotropic effects, it’s no match for naturally occurring delta-9 THC. Some estimates claim HHC is 70% to 80% as potent as regular THC.

While HHC is chemically different from THC, both cannabinoids operate similarly. More specifically, they both directly bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors found in the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

Furthermore, HHC products tend to last a little longer than traditional THC products because environmental factors such as sunlight or heat don’t diminish HHC potencies.

Admittedly, the research on HHC is extremely limited –  even more so than for cannabidiol (CBD) or THC.

What we can say with certainty is HHC’s effects are largely similar to those of THC in the sense that it induces psychotropic effects. These effects are less potent than you’ll find in medicinal or recreational marijuana.

In some regards, the intensity of the effects is more akin to delta-8 THC. Still, HHC is believed to have stronger effects than you’ll find in delta-8 products.

On top of this, users report the “high” of HHC to differ slightly from that of delta-8 or -9. In most cases, people feel a reduction in anxiety and pain along with a sense of euphoria and sedation. People claim HHC provides them with more of a “body high,” allowing for more specific effects such as appetitive stimulation, sleep promotion, and pain alleviation.

The effects of HHC usually last longer than those of THC. For example, vaping HHC can produce effects that last 3 to 4 hours. However, vaping THC will only last 1 to 2 hours.

The most notable side effect of HHC is the psychoactivity it induces. While different from a THC high, it will provide users with a similar experience. Therefore, some people may be sensitive to (or simply dislike) the overall effects of HHC.

On top of this, some short-term effects you may experience from HHC include:

• Anxiety
• Appetite changes
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Increased blood pressure
• Insomnia
• Paranoia
• Psychosis
• Rapid heart rate
• Red eyes

Since there’s little research on HHC, it’s difficult to determine all the short- and long-term effects of the cannabinoid. Not to mention, there’s currently no research concerning HHC effects on pregnant (or lactating) women or people who take other medications. For this reason, people of these categories should avoid HHC until further research comes to light.

You may find HHC in certain locations in your area, such as head shops or vape stores. However, when we’re in the market for HHC, we always prefer to purchase our products online.

Through online sales, manufacturers can offer a number of details about the product that doesn’t compare to head or vape shops. The most notable is a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) which details whether or not the product contains contaminants.

To help allocate your search, here are our top 3 recommended HHC products: