HHC vs. THC

Oct 17th 2024

What is HHC vs. THC? Exploring the similarities, differences, legal status, and why consumers should approach HHC with caution.

In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in cannabinoids beyond the well-known Delta-9-THC and CBD. One such cannabinoid that is gaining popularity is Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). Often compared to THC, particularly Delta-9-THC, HHC offers a unique experience for users, although it also raises some concerns due to its limited research and synthetic nature. In this blog, we will explore HHC vs. THC, their differences, similarities, and legal status, and dive into why consumers should approach HHC with caution.

Spoiler alert: Due to HHC’s synthetic or man-made nature, Rare Cannabinoid Company does not sell products containing HHC. Instead we offer legal hemp-derived Delta-9-THC edibles that can be shipped to all U.S. locations. If you’d like to try them, please take our one-minute Cannabinoid Finder Quiz and you will receive a coupon code for your choice of up to 20 free THC edibles worth $25! Options include Mood Gummies, Mood Mints, THC + THCV Gummies, THC + CBN Gummies, THC + CBG Gummies and more.

What Is HHC?

Hexahydrocannabinol, commonly referred to as HHC or HXC, is a cannabinoid that interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system, much like other cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. When comparing HHC vs. THC, although HHC is a naturally occurring phytocannabinoid, it has only been found in trace amounts in the cannabis plant. Therefore, the HHC products that are available on the market are typically synthesized in a laboratory from hemp-derived CBD.

HHC is produced through a process called hydrogenation, which involves adding hydrogen atoms to CBD molecules to convert them into HHC. This synthetic process makes HHC similar to Delta-8-THC in the sense that it is man-made rather than naturally extracted from cannabis in significant amounts. However, the effects of HHC can be compared to those of THC, with some users reporting a mild high.

How Is HHC Different From THC?

While HHC and THC both interact with the endocannabinoid system, there are several key differences between the two.

Natural vs. Synthetic: Delta-9-THC is naturally present in significant amounts in cannabis and hemp plants, while HHC is typically produced synthetically from CBD. While HHC does occur naturally in cannabis, it is in such small quantities that producing it naturally would be inefficient.
Chemical Structure: The molecular structure of HHC is similar to that of THC, but it has additional hydrogen atoms. This slight chemical difference affects how HHC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the body, and consequently, its effects on the user.
Potency: Some users report that HHC provides an effect similar to THC but with less intensity. However, there is very limited scientific research on HHC, so it is difficult to determine exactly how potent it is compared to Delta-9-THC. Anecdotal reports suggest that the euphoric feeling from HHC may fall somewhere between that of Delta-8-THC and Delta-9-THC.

How is HHC vs. THC Made?

The process of making HHC involves converting CBD into HHC using hydrogenation. During hydrogenation, hydrogen atoms are added to the molecular structure of CBD, resulting in the creation of HHC. This process is not unique to cannabinoids and is also used in the food industry, such as in the creation of margarine from vegetable oil.

Because HHC is created in a lab, its purity and potency can vary depending on the manufacturer. There are currently no standardized methods or regulations for producing HHC, so consumers have little way of knowing how much HHC a product contains or if it was made safely. This lack of regulation makes HHC a somewhat risky option for consumers.

Meanwhile, Delta-9-THC occurs naturally in both cannabis and hemp. It is extracted from the plants, not synthetically converted from CBD like HHC.

HHC vs. THC High?

Will HHC get you high? Yes, HHC can produce psychoactive effects. Many people refer to it as a “light” version of THC, with a milder high that is less intense than Delta-9-THC. However, not enough studies have been conducted to conclusively determine how HHC affects the body, so experiences may vary.

Because HHC binds to the same cannabinoid receptors as THC, it can alter your mood, perception, and mental state. Some users report that the high from HHC is euphoric and relaxing.

HHC vs. Delta-8-THC

HHC and Delta-8-THC are both synthetic cannabinoids, and both have emerged as alternatives to Delta-9-THC in states where Delta-9-THC remains illegal. Like HHC, Delta-8-THC is produced from hemp-derived CBD in a lab. However, the chemical structure of Delta-8-THC is slightly different from that of HHC.

Both HHC and Delta-8-THC are considered less potent than Delta-9-THC. The primary difference between them is how they are synthesized and their chemical structures, but both cannabinoids are understudied, making it difficult to predict their exact effects and safety.

Is HHC Legal? HHC vs. THC legal landscape

The legal status of HHC is murky. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp and hemp-derived products containing 0.3% or less Delta-9-THC. Because HHC is synthesized from hemp-derived CBD, some manufacturers argue that HHC is legal under the same federal law.

However, there is ongoing debate about whether synthetic cannabinoids like HHC should be classified differently. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) considers HHC and other synthetic cannabinoids, like Delta-8-THC, to be illegal under the Federal Analog Act, which classifies any chemical that is “substantially similar” to a Schedule I drug (such as THC) as illegal.

At the state level, the legality of HHC varies. Some states have explicitly banned HHC and other synthetic cannabinoids, while others have not addressed the issue. As a result, the legal status of HHC is unclear in many places, and consumers should check their local laws before purchasing HHC products.

In this respect, when it comes to the legality of HHC vs. THC, the rules around THC are actually more clear. Products containing less than 0.3% Delta-9-THC and derived from hemp can be sold outside of dispensaries and shipped to all U.S. locations. Products containing more than 0.3% THC from cannabis must be sold in cannabis dispensaries.

Safety of HHC vs. THC?

How safe is THC vs. HHC? Because HHC is relatively new and not well-studied, there is little data on its safety or long-term effects. One of the main concerns with HHC is the lack of regulation in its production. Since HHC products are not subject to the same safety standards as THC or CBD products, there is no way to know if a product was made safely or if it contains harmful contaminants.

HHC is often synthesized using heavy metals, such as platinum, which can leave harmful residues if not properly removed during the manufacturing process. This is one reason why consumers should be cautious when purchasing HHC products, as they may contain trace amounts of these harmful substances.

What’s the Verdict?

While HHC is a synthetic version of THC, there is still much we don’t know about its effects, safety, and legality. Delta-9-THC, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that has been extensively studied and is known to produce well-documented effects.

If you’re looking for a reliable and legal source of THC, consider Rare Cannabinoid Company’s THC products, which contain federally legal, hemp-derived Delta-9-THC. Their offerings include Mood Gummies, Mood Mints, and THC gummies with combinations like THC + THCV, THC + CBG, and THC + CBN for various effects. To try any of these products for free, simply take the Rare Cannabinoid Company’s 1-minute Cannabinoid Finder Quiz and receive a coupon code for free gummies or mints.

Conclusion

The comparison of HHC vs. THC highlights that while HHC is gaining popularity as a legal THC alternative, its synthetic nature, lack of regulation, and limited research make it a questionable option for consumers. Delta-9-THC, especially when derived from hemp, is a more reliable and well-studied cannabinoid, offering the psychoactive effects people seek with a clearer understanding of its safety profile.

When choosing between HHC and THC, it’s essential to prioritize safety, regulation, and reliability. Opting for trusted sources like Rare Cannabinoid Company ensures you are getting lab-tested, legal THC products for a consistent and enjoyable experience.