Posted on July 14, 2023 by Munchies

They say the beauty of living lies in learning something new every day. And for cannabis enthusiasts, the journey is endless. You may have explored Delta 8 THC and its effects, but have you dived into the world of HXC? 

HXC is another intriguing cannabinoid that’s catching the attention of those seeking a unique experience. Though it’s derived from hemp like Delta 8 THC, its effects and benefits differ, offering a smoother, more subtle high with potential wellness applications. Let’s explore how these cannabinoids compare, what sets them apart, and why HXC could be your next go-to choice!

Key Takeaways

  • HXC and Delta 8 Similarities – Both HXC (HHC) and Delta 8 are cannabinoids derived from hemp, offering milder psychoactive effects compared to Delta 9.
  • Potency Comparison – HXC is slightly more potent than Delta 8 but not as strong as Delta 9. Both offer a less intense high compared to Delta 9, making them appealing to users seeking a more manageable experience.
  • Effects – HXC and Delta 8 provide mild euphoria, relaxation, and mental clarity. Users report less anxiety and paranoia compared to Delta 9.
  • Best Consumption Methods – HXC and Delta 8 can be consumed through vaping, smoking-infused flower, or edibles, with vaping and smoking providing quicker effects while edibles have longer-lasting effects.

What is HXC?

HXC, commonly called hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), is a rising star of novel cannabinoids. It occurs naturally in cannabis but in such small amounts that it must be synthesized to make it more accessible. This makes HXC a semi-synthetic cannabinoid (SSC), as it’s derived from hemp but requires a chemical process to create usable quantities.

Its increasing popularity stems from its effects, which are often compared to Delta 8 THC. HXC provides a potent but still manageable high, offering consumers a milder experience than Delta 9 THC while still being a bit more intense than Delta 8 THC.

How is HXC Made?

HXC is typically created from hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta 8 THC. Due to the legal limitations surrounding Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 THC serves as the base for producing HXC. The process begins with converting CBD from hemp into Delta 8 THC, which is then hydrogenated in the presence of metal catalysts to form HXC. This hydrogenation process alters the chemical structure, making HXC a unique but closely related cannabinoid to Delta 8 THC.

What is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in the cannabis plant, closely resembling Delta 9, the compound commonly associated with the psychoactive effects of marijuana. The primary difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 is the location of a double bond in their molecular structures. Delta 8’s double bond is on the 8th carbon, whereas Delta 9’s is on the 9th carbon. This small difference impacts their potency and effects. Delta 8 is about half as potent as Delta 9, resulting in a milder, more controlled high with fewer side effects like anxiety or paranoia.

Due to its subtle effects, Delta 8 has become quite popular, especially among those looking for a lighter psychoactive experience compared to Delta 9. After CBD, it is one of the most sought-after cannabinoids.

How is Delta 8 THC Made?

Delta 8 is present in the cannabis plant but only in small quantities. Most of the Delta 8 products on the market are produced synthetically. The process begins with extracting CBD from hemp, which is then converted into Delta 8 using solvents like heptane, toluene, and an acid catalyst such as p-toluenesulfonic acid. This chemical process creates Delta 8 alongside other cannabinoids, including trace amounts of Delta 9.

Given the synthetic production process, it is crucial to check for third-party lab testing or a certificate of analysis (CoA) when purchasing Delta 8 products to ensure purity and safety.

HXC Vs. Delta 8 THC: Effects

What are the Effects of HXC?

HXC is known for delivering a smooth, moderate-high—similar to Delta 8 THC but with a little extra kick. It’s more potent than Delta 8 THC yet milder than Delta 9 THC, providing a clear-headed experience with enhanced creativity and mood without intense side effects like paranoia or anxiety.

Many users appreciate its longer-lasting effects, particularly for potential pain relief. HXC’s stability as a cannabinoid may contribute to this prolonged impact, making it an appealing choice for those seeking both mental and physical benefits. However, most of the information about HXC’s effects remains anecdotal, as research is still in its early stages.

In summary, HXC strikes a balance for those looking for a mild, uplifting high with potential therapeutic effects, making it a popular alternative to other cannabinoids like Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC.

What are the Effects of Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC offers a mild psychoactive experience that many users describe as clear-headed and relaxing, without the intense high associated with Delta 9 THC. Its effects include mild euphoria, relaxation, mental clarity, and slight sedation. These effects make it ideal for those seeking a calmer experience or relief without feeling overwhelmed.

While scientific research on cannabinoids like HXC and Delta 8 THC is limited, anecdotal reports suggest that both produce mild effects. Users experience a relaxed, euphoric state, but the high from both is less intense than Delta 9 THC, with fewer reports of paranoia or anxiety. However, both can still induce typical side effects such as dry mouth, red eyes, and drowsiness.

HXC Vs. Delta 8 THC: Benefits 

Benefits of HXC

Like other cannabinoids, HXC has potential health benefits, but further study is required to confirm their effectiveness. Based on user reports and its close relationship with Delta 8 THC, HXC may offer a range of effects similar to other cannabinoids.

HXC produces THC-like psychoactive effects, leading to feelings of happiness (euphoria) and mental stimulation. Its most attractive feature is the clear-headed buzz, making it ideal for relaxing and letting thoughts flow freely. This effect may be appealing for activities like introspection or creative brainstorming.

HXC’s potential anti-inflammatory properties could also make it useful for alleviating pain and discomfort, as it interacts with the CB1 receptors in the brain, which are involved in processing pain signals. Its potency, being stronger than Delta 8 but less intense than Delta 9, makes it enjoyable for many users, particularly those looking for a balanced psychoactive experience without the anxiety or paranoia that Delta 9 can sometimes induce.

Benefits of Delta 8 THC

The potential benefits of Delta 8 are largely anecdotal but promising. Some of the reported benefits include:

  • Appetite Stimulation – Like Delta 9, Delta 8 may increase appetite by activating the CB1 receptor in the brain.
  • Anti-Anxiety – Delta 8 may help alleviate anxiety without the intense psychoactive effects of Delta 9, providing a more relaxed and balanced experience.
  • Mood Improvement – Many users feel uplifted and mentally stimulated after using Delta 8.
  • Nausea Relief – Delta 8 is thought to have antiemetic properties, making it useful for managing nausea.
  • Pain Relief – Some users find Delta 8 helps with chronic pain due to its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

However, while user experiences are encouraging, there is limited scientific research to back these claims, so more studies are needed.

HXC Vs. Delta 8 THC: Potential Side Effects 

Potential Side Effects of HXC

Like most psychoactive cannabinoids, HXC and Delta 8 can have some undesirable side effects, especially at higher doses. 

Although no specific studies have focused on HXC’s side effects, users may experience reactions similar to those associated with Delta 8 and Delta 9, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Dry mouth
  • Increased appetite (the munchies)
  • Red eyes
  • Increased heart rate
  • Paranoia

The likelihood of experiencing these effects increases with larger doses, so it is advisable to start with small amounts and gradually increase as needed.

Psychoactive cannabinoids like Delta 8 tend to have what is called an “inverted dose-effect relationship,” where lower doses can be beneficial. Still, higher doses may lead to negative effects such as anxiety and paranoia. To avoid these side effects, starting with low doses and gradually increasing is best.

The milder profiles of Delta 8 and HXC make them popular options for those who want the therapeutic benefits of THC without an overwhelming high.

HXC Vs. Delta 8 THC: Best Ways To Take 

Best Way to Take HXC

HXC is commonly available in concentrate forms such as dabs, wax, shatter, batter, oils, and distillates, making vaping one of the most popular methods. Vaporizers, which can be found at cannabis dispensaries or online, are perfect for these concentrates.

Alternatively, HXC can be infused into hemp flower for smoking. Some companies produce HXC-infused flower, which can be enjoyed in joints, blunts, bongs, or pipes.

Edibles are another convenient and discreet way to take HXC. Products such as gummies, candies, capsules, oils, and tinctures are easy to use and require no additional equipment. However, it’s important to note that while edibles take longer to take effect compared to vaping or sublingual methods, their effects last longer. This delayed onset can sometimes lead to accidental overconsumption, so patience is key when consuming HXC in edible form.

Best Way to Take Delta 8 THC

Delta 8 doesn’t occur naturally in large amounts, so Delta 8-rich hemp flower isn’t a thing. However, if smoking is your preferred method, you can buy Delta 8-infused flower. This is typically made by spraying hemp flower with Delta 8 distillate, enhancing the cannabinoid content. This flower often also contains CBD, which balances the effects for a smooth, mellow experience.

Vaping is another increasingly popular way to consume Delta 8. Vaping devices allow users to inhale Delta 8 concentrates in the form of vapor, offering a fast-acting method without the harshness of smoke. Since vaping involves heating, not burning, it’s considered less irritating to the lungs compared to smoking joints or blunts.

HXC vs. Delta 8 THC: Potency

Regarding potency, HXC is reported to be slightly stronger than Delta 8 but milder than Delta 9. Stronger cannabinoids like Delta 9 typically deliver more intense effects, but both HXC and Delta 8 offer a gentler high. If you’re new to either, starting with low doses and increasing gradually as you learn how they affect you is best.

HXC vs. Delta 8 THC: Legality

Delta 8 and HXC’s legal status continues to be ambiguous. Although the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived products, the DEA has indicated that synthetic cannabinoids—like those created through chemical processes—may not be considered legal. Consequently, Delta 8 and HXC face legal challenges in various states. Always check your local regulations before purchasing.

HXC vs. Delta 8 THC: Cost

HXC products are typically more expensive than Delta 8 because they are newer and require more complex manufacturing processes. Delta 8, being more widely available and familiar, is usually more budget-friendly. That said, prices for both vary based on potency, quality, and demand.

In conclusion, Delta 8 and HXC have unique properties and benefits, but which is best depends on your personal preferences, budget, and legal considerations in your area.

Final Thoughts

When choosing between HXC (HHC) and Delta 8, the decision depends on what you’re looking for in a cannabinoid experience. Both offer milder alternatives to Delta 9, with HXC slightly more potent than Delta 8. 

If you’re new to cannabinoids or prefer a gentler high, Delta 8 may be your ideal choice, whereas HXC offers a bit more intensity without the overwhelming effects of Delta 9. Consider factors such as legality, cost, and tolerance when deciding. Whether you choose HXC or Delta 8, always prioritize high-quality products from trusted sources to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

(Disclaimer reminder: This article is not medical advice. It is based on anecdotal user experience alone. If you are thinking about incorporating cannabis (Delta-8 THC, Delta-9 THC, CBD, etc) into your medicinal routine, please consult a healthcare professional. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.)

Disclaimer: This article reflects the laws of the United States at the time it was written. Because cannabis laws in the United States are subject to change at any time, please make sure that you are always staying up to date on your federal, state, and local county’s cannabis laws. Additionally, we are NOT encouraging anyone to break the law––we are simply showing people ways to legally and discreetly bring their cannabis products along with them on their travels so that they may have access to those products when they reach their intended destination.

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