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As the cannabis market continues to expand, more cannabinoids (or unique compounds within the cannabis plant) are being identified and isolated to explore their potential uses. Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is one of these compounds, and it is found naturally in the cannabis plant or can be synthesized from hemp.
Below, we’ll explore what makes HHC unique and outline how it compares to some of the most common cannabinoids on the market.
- HHC undergoes hydrogenation, making it more resistant to heat, UV exposure, and oxidation compared to THC, which degrades into CBN over time.
- HHC provides a less intense high than Delta-9 THC, often described as more relaxing and with a lower risk of anxiety and paranoia. It is stronger than Delta-8 THC but weaker than THCP and THC-O.
- HHC is often marketed as a federally legal hemp-derived cannabinoid, but some states have restricted its sale. Unlike Delta-9 THC, which is illegal federally but legal in some states, HHC exists in a legal gray area.
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What is HHC?
Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a hydrogenated derivative of THC. It occurs naturally in trace amounts in cannabis, but it is typically synthesized for consumption from hemp-derived cannabinoids. [1]
Unlike THC, HHC’s stability is enhanced due to the “hydrogenation process” that it goes through to be created. This makes HHC more resistant to heat and UV exposure. [2] This increased stability gives HHC a longer shelf life and makes it less susceptible to degradation, as compared to other cannabinoids like Delta-9 THC, which oxidizes into cannabinol (CBN) over time.
HHC interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system in a way similar to THC, specifically binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain. However, due to its altered structure, HHC is believed to provide a less intense psychoactive experience with fewer instances of anxiety and paranoia.
While research on HHC is still in its early stages, 2024 research suggests it offers a more relaxing high with mild euphoria and pain-relieving properties. [3] Additionally, some users report that HHC produces a more clear-headed and functional experience compared to traditional THC products.
How is HHC different from other cannabinoids?
HHC stands out due to its unique chemical structure, which affects its interaction with the endocannabinoid system. [2] The primary distinction between HHC and other cannabinoids lies in its hydrogenation process, which adds hydrogen atoms to the THC molecule, stabilizing it and making it less prone to oxidation and breakdown.
This structural difference not only extends HHC's shelf life but also alters its psychoactive effects, making it slightly less potent than Delta-9 THC, but more potent than Delta-8 THC. [2]
Additionally, while cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and CBG are derived directly from cannabis plants, HHC is typically synthesized in laboratories using hemp-derived compounds like CBD.
This synthetic production method allows manufacturers to legally produce HHC under the 2018 Farm Bill, as long as it is derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. However, this legal status remains a gray area, as some states have begun restricting HHC alongside other hemp-derived cannabinoids, deeming them class I controlled substances. [4] Currently, HHC is not legal in CO, ID, MS, MT, ND, NV, NY, UT, and WA.
The lack of comprehensive regulation also can impact the purity and safety of products containing HHC, as unregulated HHC products may contain residual solvents or unknown byproducts from the synthesis process, such as heavy metals which can be dangerous to consume.
HHC vs. THC
HHC and THC are both cannabinoids found in cannabis, but they differ in structure, effects, and legal status. This section explores their chemical composition, psychoactive properties, benefits, negative effects, consumption methods, and legality. HHC is a hydrogenated derivative of THC, making it more stable and resistant to degradation.
Chemical composition
| HHC | THC | |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Hydrogenated THC derivative | Naturally occurring in cannabis |
| Stability | More resistant to oxidation | Degrades into CBN over time |
| Production | Typically synthesized from hemp-derived cannabinoids | Extracted from cannabis plants |
Psychoactive properties
HHC is known to produce a milder high compared to THC, often described as more relaxing and less anxiety-inducing. While THC strongly binds to CB1 receptors, HHC’s binding affinity is slightly lower, leading to a less intense, more controlled experience. [5]
Benefits & negative effects
| HHC | THC | |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Relaxation, reduced anxiety, clear-headed, high, increased stability. | Stronger psychoactive effects, appetite stimulation, pain relief, and medicinal applications. |
| Negative effects | Less likely to cause anxiety and paranoia, mild cognitive impairment, and drowsiness is possible | Anxiety and paranoia are likely, especially at higher doses, moderate to high levels of cognitive impairment, and commonly cause drowsiness |
Consumption methods
- HHC: Available in vape cartridges, tinctures, edibles, and capsules.
- THC: Consumed through smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures, and topicals.
Legal status
HHC remains in a legal gray area under U.S. federal law, often marketed as a hemp-derived cannabinoid. THC, specifically Delta-9 THC, is federally illegal, but it is legal in certain states for medicinal or recreational use.
HHC vs. Delta-9
HHC is a hydrogenated form of THC, making it more stable and resistant to degradation, while Delta-9 THC is naturally occurring in cannabis and is known for its potent psychoactive effects. HHC tends to produce a milder high, whereas Delta-9 THC is more intense and widely used for medicinal applications. Additionally, HHC is often marketed as federally legal when derived from hemp, whereas Delta-9 THC remains illegal at the federal level but is permitted in some states.
Chemical composition & conversion
- HHC: As a hydrogenated form of THC, HHC is produced synthetically for stability.
- Delta-9 THC: Naturally occurring in cannabis, delta-9 THC oxidizes into CBN over time. [2]
Psychoactive properties
HHC and delta-9 THC exert their effects primarily through activation of the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R). Studies indicate that (9R)-HHC has a higher binding affinity to CB1R compared to (9S)-HHC, with the former producing effects more akin to delta-9 THC. However, the activation of CB1R by HHC ligands is only broadly comparable to that mediated by delta-9 THC, suggesting unique pharmacological properties for each compound. [2]
Benefits & negative effects
| HHC | Delta-9 THC | |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Provides relaxation without as much paranoia and may be preferable for those who find traditional THC too overwhelming | Has extensive medicinal applications, including pain relief and appetite stimulation |
| Negative effects | Potential drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth | Higher risk of anxiety, paranoia, and increased heart rate |
Consumption methods & legal status
| HHC | Delta-9 THC | |
|---|---|---|
| Consumption method |
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| Legal status |
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HHC vs. Delta-8
HHC and Delta-8 THC are both hemp-derived cannabinoids with mild psychoactive effects, but they differ in potency and stability. HHC is slightly stronger and more resistant to degradation, while Delta-8 is known for its calming effects and appetite stimulation.
Chemical composition & conversion
- Delta-8 is another THC isomer, but it occurs naturally in smaller amounts.
- HHC is hydrogenated, making it more stable and slightly more potent than Delta-8. [6]
Psychoactive properties
HHC is slightly more potent than Delta-8 but less than Delta-9 THC, making it a middle ground for users seeking a mild but noticeable high.
Benefits & negative effects
| HHC | Delta-8 THC | |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Mild euphoria, relaxation | Calming effects, appetite stimulation |
| Negative effects | Dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth | Less potent, but still causes drowsiness and brain fog |
Legal status
Both cannabinoids are in a legal gray area, but Delta-8 is more widely restricted in various states.
HHC vs. CBN
HHC provides mild euphoria and relaxation, while CBN is primarily known for its sedative properties and use as a sleep aid.
Chemical composition & conversion
HHC is a THC derivative, whereas CBN is a breakdown product of THC. [7]
Psychoactive properties
- HHC: Mildly psychoactive, producing a relaxed but functional high
- CBN: Primarily sedative with little to no psychoactive effects
Benefits & negative effects
| HHC | CBN | |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Relaxation, mild euphoria | Sleep aid, sedative properties |
| Negative effects | Dizziness | Drowsiness, grogginess |
Legal status
CBN is considered legal under the U.S. Farm Bill, while HHC is in a gray area.
HHC vs. THCa
HHC and THCa differ in both effects and activation. THCa is a non-psychoactive precursor to THC with potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits, while HHC is already active and primarily used for relaxation and stress relief.
Chemical composition & conversion
- THCa is the raw, non-psychoactive form of THC and only becomes psychoactive when heated. [8]
- HHC is already active upon consumption.
Benefits & negative effects
- THCa has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. [8]
- HHC is used more for recreational relaxation and stress relief.
Legal status
THCa is federally legal if derived from hemp, but legality changes once it’s converted into THC.
HHC vs. THCP
HHC and THCP differ significantly in potency and effects. While HHC offers a mild, relaxing high, THCP is far more potent due to its stronger binding to CB1 receptors, leading to intense psychoactive effects.
Chemical composition & conversion
- THCP has a longer alkyl side chain, making it more potent than traditional THC. [9]
- HHC is structurally similar to THC but significantly less potent than THCP.
Psychoactive properties
- THCP may be up to 30x more potent than THC.
- HHC provides a less intense, more manageable high.
Benefits & negative effects
| HHC | THCP | |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Relaxation, stability | Stronger binding to CB1 receptors, intense effects |
| Negative effects | Mild cognitive impairment | Extreme sedation, potential anxiety |
Legal status
THCP is made from hemp products, and it is therefore protected under the U.S. Farm Bill, while HHC is in more of a gray area.
HHC vs. THC-O
HHC and THC-O differ in potency and activation. While HHC provides a mild, relaxing high, THC-O is significantly stronger and requires metabolism before becoming active, often leading to more intense and psychedelic effects.
Chemical composition & conversion
- THC-O is a synthetic cannabinoid and a prodrug of THC, meaning it needs to be metabolized to become active. [10]
- HHC is already psychoactive upon consumption.
Psychoactive properties
- THC-O is considered 2-3x stronger than Delta-9 THC, making it much more potent than HHC. It has also been reported to cause psychedelic experiences for some users. [10]
- HHC offers a milder, more manageable high.
Benefits & negative effects
| HHC | THC-O | |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Relaxation, mild euphoria | Intense psychoactive effects, spiritual experiences |
| Negative effects | Drowsiness, dizziness | Delayed onset, overwhelming intensity |
Risk vs. Reward: How to stay safe with THC substances
While HHC and other THC derivatives may offer some unique health benefits, responsible consumption is crucial. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Start low, go slow: If you're new to HHC, start with a low dose and wait to see how your body reacts. This is the best advice to recommend for any THC substance, as individual effects may vary from person to person.
- Know your source: Buy from reputable brands to avoid contaminated or synthetic knockoffs.
- Be mindful of legal status: HHC exists in a legal gray area, so check your local laws before purchasing. Stay up-to-date on the legal status of other THC substances, as legislation often changes.
- Avoid mixing with alcohol or other substances: This can enhance unwanted side effects, like dizziness and nausea.
- Listen to your body: If you experience anxiety or discomfort, stop use.
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