WHICH IS STRONGER, HHC OR THC?

WHICH IS STRONGER, HHC OR THC?

HHC is a hydrogenated derivative of tetrahydrocannabinol. A scientist added hydrogen molecules into delta 9 THC in a process known as hydrogenation, which converts THC into HHC. Despite the product being created over 70 years ago, the research into HHC and its effects is minimal research into HHC and its effects.

However, using hydrogen atoms to saturate the molecule increases its shelf-life significantly. There are over ten versions of HHC. Unlike THC, HHC does not have double bonds, but it has two extra atoms. It is the direct opposite of CBN. It is created when THC gains more double bonds as it breaks down. In HHC, the double bonds in the THC are broken and replaced with oxygen, which then changes the molecule’s binding affinity for the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body. Once you purchase HHC, you will find out that it retains a high percentage of its potency for a longer time than Delta 9 THC. This article will help the user understand what HHC  products are, how they are made, their legality, availability, and benefits.

How to Make HHC

The process of making HHC starts with cannabidiol extraction from raw hemp. Fathollahi-Fard et al. (2020) provided a simple method of making hemp. After extraction, CBD is then distilled and isolated. The final product has a powdery texture and is usually sold as a separate CBD isolate product. After that, a lot now depends on the manufacturer. For example, they say that the HHC manufacturing procedure is a proprietary process without giving out a great deal. You can also create HHC from THC in the laboratory. Hydrogenating THC involves exposing concentrated THC to hydrogen at high pressure and metal catalysts like palladium or nickel. Once the task is complete, you can now remove the catalyst.

Nahler et al. (2007) outlined the possibility of converting CBD into different forms of HHC by using gastric juice. However, there is not much information on this method of using HHC. Another suggestion shows that creating HHC from a terpene called citronellol is possible.

Is HHC Legal?

According to the producers of HHC cannabinoid products such as Bearly legal, the compound is federally legal as it occurs naturally in the hemp plant. Industrial hemp is now legalized to be grown in the United States, Provided that the maximum delta 9 THC content is less than 0.3%. The hemp plant is best known for producing large amounts of CBD. It also has many other cannabinoids. Many products that contain other hemp products are legal as long as they don’t exceed the 0.3% THC threshold. The manufacturers of HHC are keen to ensure that everything is above board.

In comparing HHC to THC, Somparn et al. (2007) commented that HHC is different from THC; it is potentially illegal if deemed synthetic. FDA’s interim final rule states that synthetic cannabinoids in hemp plants are illegal, while those that occur naturally are permitted. It is a fact that HHC occurs naturally in hemp and cannabis but tiny amounts. HHC manufacturers produce it in the lab using a chemical process designed to create much of it. There is also a small matter of the Federal Analog Act; it makes any analog of a schedule 1 drug. Like delta 9 THC, an illegal substance.

Is HHC Stronger Than Delta 9 THC?

It’s difficult to ascertain the exact potency of HHC because of a lack of research into it. Indeed, the manufacturers of HHC products acknowledge a lack of consistency. The active to inactive HHC molecule ratio may vary from one batch to another. As these companies do their best to increase inactive compounds in the products, they also don’t have full control. According to its chemical structure, it is likely to find that HHC is stronger than delta 8 but less potent than delta 9. Delta et al. (2021) confirmed those sentiments. As a rule, any THC form with four or more carbons in the inside chain produces intoxicating effects. For example, delta 8, 9, and 10 THC have five carbons. The most potent THC form has seven carbons.

HHC Benefits and Effects

Due to the lack of enough scientific evidence, the apparent benefits and effects of the HHC cannabinoid are primarily anecdotal. The users say HHC effects are similar to THC’s, including altered auditory, euphoria, and visual perception. In general, you may expect effects similar to delta 8 THC in relaxation. Other users claim that they feel more energetic with a sharper mind. Järbe et al (2021) tested HHC on rats. The findings were that the cannabinoid could share properties with narcotic painkillers. However, significant differences existed.

Is HHC Safe?

HHC producers suggest that it is perfectly safe because it comes from the hemp plant. Despite the lack of research, there are no existing reports on side effects, which does not necessarily mean that THC is safe. HHC products are still new to the market, so there is little information on short to medium-term effects. With its similarities to THC and its almost intoxicating effects, the following side effects may appear based on what we know about delta 9: dry mouth, dizziness, insomnia, increased appetite, red eyes, elevated heart rate, and heightened anxiety and paranoia. Lack of regulation is also another problem. As many companies sell HHC products, only a handful are well known. Again, most HHC items come in the form of Vape cartridges. With the link between vaping and possible lung illness, one must practice caution when buying HHC products.

Where Can I Get the Best HHC products?

Currently, there are some reputable HHC sellers of useful products. Bearly legal has developed a reputation for selling high-quality niche cannabinoids like delta 8, THC-O, Delta 10, and HHC. Its range is limited to HHC vape cartridges and gummies. HHC carts contain up to 99% cannabinoid in 1 ml of liquid. HHC gummies contain up to 20mg of HHC per piece. For the new users or those with a low tolerance. It’s recommended not to consume more than a gummy.

Conclusion

Ultimately, as an HHC product may seem new and exciting, remember that claims as to its efficacy and safety are not yet backed by scientific research. It seems that the effects of HHC and THC are alike, including intoxication. The users of this cannabinoid report feeling calm, relaxed, and happy after using it. Because it is slightly milder than delta 9 THC, It can prove useful for individuals who find cannabis too strong as the long-term effects of HHC remain unknown. There is massive confusion regarding its legality at present. It can also come from industrial hemp; products with less than 0.3% delta 9 THC could be legal throughout the United States.

References

Delta, D., Ages, T. C. V. C., & So Inaccurate, W. A. C. (2021). CBD Oracle Lab Study Shows Some Delta-8 Products Are 7700% Over The Legal Delta-9 THC Limit. We Got 51 Hemp-Derived Delta-8 THC Products Tested By An Independent Lab, And Found High Levels Of Delta-9 THC In Most Of Them. And That Was Just The Beginning. Delta.

Fathollahi-Fard, A. M., Hajiaghaei-Keshteli, M., & Mirjalili, S. (2020). A Set Of Efficient Heuristics For A Home Healthcare Problem. Neural Computing And Applications, 32(10), 6185-6205.

Järbe, T. U., Tai, S., Lemay, B. J., Nikas, S. P., Shukla, V. G., Zvonok, A., & Makriyannis, A. (2012). AM2389, A High-Affinity, In Vivo Potent CB1-Receptor-Selective Cannabinergic Ligand As Evidenced By Drug Discrimination In Rats And Hypothermia Testing In Mice. Psychopharmacology, 220(2), 417-426.

Nahler, G., Grotenhermen, F., Zuardi, A. W., & Crippa, J. A. (2017). A Conversion Of Oral Cannabidiol To Delta9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Seems Not To Occur In Humans. Cannabis And Cannabinoid Research, 2(1), 81-86.

Somparn, P., Phisalaphong, C., Nakornchai, S., Unchern, S., & Morales, N. P. (2007). Comparative Antioxidant Activities Of Curcumin And Its Demethoxy And Hydrogenated Derivatives. Biological And Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 30(1), 74-78.

Julia Davis

Mental health expert
MS, University of Latvia

I am deeply convinced that each patient needs a unique, individual approach. Therefore, I use different psychotherapy methods in my work. During my studies, I discovered an in-depth interest in people as a whole and the belief in the inseparability of mind and body, and the importance of emotional health in physical health. In my spare time, I enjoy reading (a big fan of thrillers) and going on hikes.

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