The chemical structure and properties of the cannabis plant were first identified and isolated in the 1960s by the late Israeli researcher Raphael Mechoulam. His early work focused on two main cannabinoids, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These days, cannabis research has expanded to identify over 100 cannabinoids, including hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). If you are not acquainted with HHC, this Doobie blog is here to fill you in on this interesting substance.
What is HHC?
Not all cannabinoids are psychoactive; the popular CBD, for example, does not cause the euphoric effects that THC is widely known for. Hexahydrocannabinol has psychoactive properties similar to THC, albeit milder and less overwhelming to new users.
Essentially, HHC is extracted from cannabis flower through the hydrogenation of cannabinoid molecules to make it a stable substance. In the United States, you can get HHC flower, vaporizing devices, and edibles such as gummies.
What are the HHC effects?
As with all cannabinoids – including THC – HHC effects depend on dosage, bioavailability, setting, and individual physiology. The “calibration” of your endocannabinoid system ultimately determines how you will feel and react to the HHC cannabinoid.
The reported effects include:
- Euphoric feelings
- Stimulation of creativity
- Relaxation
- Increased appetite
- Pleasant sleepiness
Seasoned cannabis smokers describe the effects as being milder, less intense, and more manageable than THC. Most new users enjoy it because regular doses do not cause the unpleasant side effects of anxiety and paranoia often associated with heavy cannabis intake.
Is HHC safe?
In and of itself, adding hydrogen molecules to other cannabinoids extracted from hemp flower is safe. The 2018 Farm Bill, which opened the door to HHC production, does not regulate it directly; therefore, it is up to the hemp industry to self-regulate. To this effect, you should always source all hemp and cannabis products from reputable sources that promote health and safety in their manufacturing and distribution processes.
What is HHC weed?
The HHC you can get from your local or online dispensary is extracted and synthesized from federally legal hemp plants. HHC weed is a catch-all term for products made with this specific cannabinoid; however, it is more commonly used in reference to HHC flower.
Hemp flower is the botanical base of HHC weed. The buds are not psychoactive until HHC is added through distillate coating or spraying. The result is a pleasant smoking experience, particularly with premium or top-shelf buds that have been carefully cultivated and cured to maximize their terpene and flavor profiles.
HHC vs. Delta 8
Unlike Delta 8, which is an isomer of Delta-9 THC, hexahydrocannabinol is more stable and closer to CBD in its chemical structure. When Delta 8 is compared to “regular weed,” many seasoned smokers report feeling milder effects. The comparison is similar to HHC; however, the effects are often described as feeling more cerebral and uplifting.
Smokers who prefer sativa-dominant strains are more likely to enjoy hexahydrocannabinol because of the faster onset and longer-lasting effects. As mentioned above, the experience may vary according to bioavailability, which is often higher when vaporizing cannabinoid distillates.
As with all cannabis products, quality sourcing and informed decisions are crucial to the overall experience. When evaluating HHC products from online dispensaries, weed delivery companies, or online marketplaces, you should read all available information. If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to contact the business.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only. Please consume cannabis responsibly and follow all local laws and regulations.