What is HHC? Effects and safety

"HHC - a cutting-edge cannabinoid, still under research, yet promising"

HHC - a novel entrant in the evolving cannabinoid arena. Numerous brands, including newcomers to the market, are racing to offer reliable, safe, and flavorful HHC-infused products.

The European scene is now crowded with HHC vape cartridges with terpenes, HHC jellies, HHC cookies, HHC oils, and various other products that have followed CBD's successful path, emerging rapidly to introduce this new cannabinoid to the public. They include Indica, Sativa, and balanced hybrids - but THC-free, how is this possible?

Let's delve into this promising new compound, potentially a missing piece in unlocking the full potential of the cannabis plant. Continue reading for more insight on HHC, what it is, and its effects.

What is HHC?

HHC, short for hexahydrocannabinol, is a semi-synthetic 'psychoactive' cannabinoid. It is a hydrogenated form of THC, meaning they are similar, but HHC contains two additional hydrogen atoms compared to it.

This difference gives HHC a longer shelf life than its famous counterpart. Additionally, HHC stands out for its higher bioavailability compared to natural cannabinoids like THC and CBD.

Therefore, scientists believe (though not yet certain) that your body may absorb more cannabinoids. Your endocannabinoid system might fully utilize this compound in ways we have not seen before.

How is HHC created?

Expert chemists and extraction specialists produce HHC in a lab setting, by adding a specific amount of hydrogen to a cannabis compound, altering its chemical makeup.

They employ a metallic catalyst to make the chemical reaction faster and more efficient, without clinging to other cannabinoids or darkening the product. Common catalysts include nickel, palladium, or platinum, which are then removed from the mixture once their job is done.

This chemical reaction imparts HHC with unique properties not typically found in nature, altering the molecule and how your body processes it.

Effects of HHC

Among all known cannabinoids to date, HHC is most akin to Delta 9 THC in terms of bodily impact. Its close chemical makeup may explain why users report effects such as:

• Pain relief
• Heightened mind and body sensations
• Anxiety reduction
• Elevated mood
Relaxation Benefits

While extensive research on HHC is still underway, some studies have linked HHC and other natural and synthetic cannabis compounds to a reduction in cancer tumors. This is promising news for the potential medical benefits of HHC in the future. 

HHC vs THC

THC and HHC have nearly identical structures. The primary difference is that THC has a double bond in its upper ring structure, which HHC lacks.

In terms of potency, HHC is roughly 20% less potent than THC. However, user reports suggest that it may be slightly more psychoactive and aromatic than THC.

Otherwise, both cannabinoids share similar characteristics.

Is HHC Safe?

To date, no study has definitively determined HHC's impact on long-term users. However, there have been no reports of dangerous side effects from those who have used HHC products.

Fortunately, reputable brands only sell products after third-party laboratory testing, ensuring they are free from harmful ingredients.

Regarding legal safety in Europe, since HHC is derived from hemp, retailers can ship HHC products nationwide as long as they contain no more than 0.3% Delta 9 THC.

Nevertheless, you should check the laws in your area to ensure you are not violating any regulations by ordering HHC.

In Ukraine, HHC lacks legal status, essentially being THC-free but its classification is still uncertain, so while local stores highlight the absence of THC, it's important to be aware of other legislative aspects that could be scrutinized.

As we continue to closely monitor the situation and research, we suggest you explore the new compound H4CBD, which is significantly stronger than its direct relative (CBD).

Will HHC Show Up on a Drug Test?

HHC is an isomer of Delta 9 THC. This means they are chemically similar, and during a drug test, they will show up similarly to regular THC. So yes, HHC will be detected in a drug test, and you should avoid it if you have one upcoming.

Does Cannabis Contain HHC?

HHC originates from Delta 9 THC in hemp. However, HHC is only produced in laboratories. Producers isolate HHC molecules from the rest of the plant and mix them with a catalyst to form a new compound with properties similar to natural hemp.

That's why HHC is found only in distillate form, not in hemp flowers as a natural cannabinoid.