What is HHC? – The Health and Wellness industry is on a surge in the USA. According to the Global Wellness Institute, the industry is set to grow to seven trillion dollars by 2025. There has been a growth in interest surrounding cannabinoids derived from hemp and the potential benefits. One of the compounds that have been getting the attention of many people is HHC or tetrahydrocannabinol.
HHC is among the fastest-growing products in the cannabis market. This is because federal and state agencies continue to ban delta-8 THC, the most famous cannabinoid derived from hemp. HHC offers a legal promise that other hemp-derived compounds seem to lack since it is not a THC compound. This piece will look into all you need to know about HHC and why it is becoming more popular with each passing moment.
What Is HHC?
HHC or hexa hydrocannabinol may sound like a sophisticated name, but it carries an easy explanation. In simple terms, HHC is THC with more hydrogen molecules. It is delta-9 THC without the double bonds. Instead of the bonds, HHC molecules contain more hydrogen compounds. The increase in hydrogen gives the HHC a much firmer structure which might explain its higher shelf life than other THC compounds.
The compound is not very new as many people would presume. Evidence indicates that scientists were trying experiments with HHC before the legalization of hemp. Some reports suggest scientists were making HHC from THC back in the 1940s.
Most HHC products are currently made with legal hemp cannabinoids. The products are primarily in the form of best CBD Genesis products. Although delta-8’s structure is unique, the resulting HHC can’t be distinguished from HHC derived from delta-9. Since hydrogenation enhances the lifespan of a product, it is believed extracts from HHC are more stable than THC molecules derived from plants. If the assumption is proven, HHC will be helpful in different fields.
How Is HHC Made?
Hexahydrocannabinol is mainly obtained from cannabis. Scientists extract cannabidiol from cannabis before distilling and isolating it to powder form. They then conduct chemical processes to make HHC through hydrogenation, discovered by Adams in 1947. The compound can also be derived from citronellal, olivetol, and delta-8 THC.
Hemp plants are extracted and distilled to separate THC or CBD during hydrogenation. Hydrogen atoms are saturated, breaking the double bond open and replacing it with two hydrogen atoms, thus making the powder the base. Zinc or nickel is used as a catalyst to convert THC into HHC.
The Legality of HHC
In reality, there is no federal guidance on viewing hemp cannabinoids. Moreover, many lawmakers believe that HHC should be subjected to the same standards as delta-9. Local districts have introduced bans on delta-8 as it continued to become famous. HHC risks facing the same scenario if it continues to get the attention of the masses and legislatures.
Generally, if you live in an area with relaxed recreational weed laws, there is a chance there will be legislation banning HHC. On the other hand, states with strict standards for cannabis may impose laws restricting the use of HHC in the future.
Benefits of HHC
Most of the benefits of HHC are anecdotal and not backed by concrete scientific proof. Some of the potential benefits of the compound include:
- May offer improved restorative sleep
- May alleviate vomiting and nausea
- May decrease inflammation
- May potentially alleviate anxiety
Effects of HHC
HHC has shown similar effects to THC. It produces stimulation and feelings of euphoria, auditory perception, altered vision, altered cognition, and changes in body temperature and heart rate.
HHC users claim its effects are similar to delta-8 THC in terms of weighing more on relaxation than stimulation. HHC is more potent than delta-8 but slightly less potent when compared to delta-9.
The compound is still new, and studies evaluating its potential therapeutic effects are currently scarce. However, it appears that HHC has a similar therapeutic profile to other THC forms. Moreover, daily THC users are presently not showing any adverse effects.
Who Should Take HHC?
There are many uncertainties when it comes to HHC effects and uses. However, anecdotal evidence shows that the cannabinoid is best for those seeking an ultra-mild high. It might not be as potent to delta-8 users, but it will give a pleasant head buzz sensation.
If you have never used hemp THC before, it might be prudent to start with HHC before trying delta-8 and delta-10. Also, individuals into microdosing hemp will enjoy the subtle effects of HHC. However, since the compound is psychoactive, it is not best suited if you are a newbie in hemp.
Wrapping Up
HHC has a unique chemical composition and great potential for the legal market. It offers a longer shelf life, and a drug test may not detect its psychoactive effects. There is still a lot to learn about the compound, but it is expected to become more popular as studies continue to be conducted.
HHC products are increasingly becoming popular as supplements to traditional therapies. Many new cannabis users are content with its effects and plan to get more. You can check the different brands online and get the HHC experience you are yearning for.
