HHC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a new cannabinoid that has gained traction among consumers looking for an alternative to delta-8 THC. This psychoactive cannabinoid is derived from hemp and has been made legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, so it’s available for purchase in edible and vape products.

HHC differs from THC’s lack of a double bond in the cyclohexane ring and its lower affinity to CB1 receptors. This makes it less potent than THC.

What is HHC?

Hexahydrocannabinol (better known as HHC) is a phytocannabinoid that is found in the cannabis plant. It is a psychoactive cannabinoid that creates a “high” effect on consumers. HHC is also said to relieve pain and provide a sense of relaxation.

Like all cannabinoids, HHC binds to your CB1 and CB2 receptors, part of a larger endocannabinoid regulation network that includes your brain. It attaches to these receptors and alters your mood, pain perception, appetite, and more.

To produce HHC, companies extract regular THC from the cannabis plant and change its chemical structure by replacing the carbon double bonds with hydrogen atoms. This process is called decarboxylation and is accomplished using nickel or zinc catalysts.

While some research suggests trace amounts of HHC naturally occur in the cannabis plant, the vast majority of HHC you purchase is synthetically derived through industrial processes. This puts HHC in a legal grey area as it’s a lab-made compound that isn’t considered natural. The 2018 Farm Bill, however, makes hemp-derived HHC federally legal as long as it contains 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight.

How is HHC made?

While HHC vs THC hasn’t been the subject of much research, anecdotal reports suggest it produces similar effects to THC. In particular, it may be effective for treating nausea and anxiety. However, it’s important to note that it has side effects like dizziness, lethargy, slow reaction times, and paranoia.

It’s not even found naturally in cannabis plants—it lives in a legal grey area as a synthetic cannabinoid made using a chemical process called hydrogenation. The process changes the molecular structure by replacing one of the carbon double bonds with hydrogen, resulting in a more shelf-stable compound and less prone to breaking down under heat or light.

During the hydrogenation process, manufacturers mix a hemp-derived cannabinoid extract with high pressure and a nickel or zinc catalyst to change the chemical structure into HHC. This makes it easier for the compound to bind to cannabinoid receptors in your body. However, manufacturers have yet to figure out a cost-effective way to separate high-potency HHC from its lower-potency twin, so most commercial products contain a mix.

What are the effects of HHC?

HHC is a relatively new cannabinoid. However, it has generated a lot of buzz in the cannabis community. Many individuals prefer it to Delta 8 THC and cannabis because of its potency, safety, and ability to produce a smooth high.

Like THC, HHC acts on the body’s endocannabinoid receptors to produce psychoactive effects. These effects include changes in perception, euphoria, elevated mood, altered visual and auditory experiences, slowed reaction times, and relaxation.

Unlike delta-9 THC, which has been studied for its anti-nausea and pain-blocking properties, HHC has not yet received much scientific attention. However, some studies have shown that a synthetic form of HHC can reduce animal pain levels.

In the future, HHC may make marijuana and hemp products less expensive and more accessible. It could also be used in gummies and vape products. Because it is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid, users should purchase HHC gummies and vape products from reputable companies to ensure they receive third-party lab-tested, safe products. Many HHC products claim undetectable in urine drug tests, but this has not been proven.

Can HHC show up on a drug test?

Many people are curious about trying HHC products like gummies or vape items, as this cannabinoid is said to be undetectable in standard drug tests. However, this claim is based on anecdotal evidence and is not guaranteed to be true.

Tetrahydrocannabinol is a chemical compound with quite a bit in common with delta-eight and delta-9 THC. The main difference is that it has been hydrogenated, adding hydrogen atoms to the original molecular structure. This makes the molecule more shelf-stable.

The body metabolizes HHC into compounds that resemble delta 9 THC, including 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. These metabolites are the ones that typically show up in drug tests, and they can cause false positive results.

It is also important to remember that various things can interfere with standard drug testing, including over-the-counter medications and foods. It is a good idea to avoid any new substances that can interfere with the effectiveness of your drug test. This is especially important if you plan to use a product that claims to be undetectable in standard drug tests or if you have a job interview.

Can HHC build up resistance?

Tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as HHC, is a cannabinoid recently discovered in hemp plants. Since it produces effects similar to THC, many people are curious about trying this new cannabinoid. But before you try out HHC, it’s important to know some facts about it.

Like other cannabinoids, it can bind with the body’s endocannabinoid receptors to produce a euphoric high. However, HHC is thought to be less psychoactive than THC, which can make it a good choice for first-time users or those with an anxiety disorder.

One of the things that makes HHC different from THC is its chemical structure. THC has two double bonds, but HHC only has one. This difference may contribute to its unique pharmacological properties and effects.

Another thing that sets HHC apart from other cannabinoids is its stability. HHC is more resistant to heat and UV light than THC, which can help preserve its potency. This longer shelf life can make products like edibles or vapes last longer. However, it’s still best to look for third-party lab-tested products from reputable companies when purchasing HHC products.