Posted on November 15, 2022 by Munchies

As more people explore alternative ways to consume cannabinoids, HHC vapes are gaining admiration for their effectiveness and ease of use. Offering a middle ground between the potency of Delta 9 THC and the mildness of CBD, HHC vapes deliver an exceptional experience. 

But what goes into making these vapes, and why are they becoming a preferred choice for many? This article will explore all the details about HHC vapes, how it works, and more. 

Key Takeaways

  • There are three ways to extract HHC for vape production, but hydrogenation is a popular choice due to its effectiveness in terms of quality and yield. 
  • HHC vapes are custom-made gears that allow users to inhale the vaporized liquid, including terpenes and flavonoids. 
  • Users usually prefer vaping over smoking because it doesn’t produce harmful byproducts from combustion. 
  • Vapes come in different names. Some of these are “e-cigs” or “ENDS” which highly depend on the cultural or industry-specific context. 

What is a Vape? 

​A vape, commonly called an e-cigarette, is a battery-operated device that heats a liquid (known as e-liquid or vape juice) to produce an aerosol the user inhales.​ These devices can deliver nicotine, flavorings, and other substances, often serving as an alternative to traditional smoking. While vaping is generally considered less harmful than smoking, it is not without risks and contains various chemicals that may be detrimental to health.

Vapes are commonly referred to by several names, reflecting their different forms, functions, and the substances they may contain.​ These terms include “e-cigarettes,” “vape pens,” “e-hookahs,” and “mods,” among others. Another set of similar terminologies for vapes includes “electronic nicotine delivery systems” (ENDS), “Alternative nicotine delivery systems” (ANDS), and “vape bars.” These synonyms emerged from different cultural, demographic, and industry-specific contexts. 

What are HHC Vapes? 

HHC vape pens are specifically engineered devices that enable users to vaporize and inhale hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) extracts. HHC is a cannabinoid chemically similar to THC but is noted for potentially having fewer psychoactive effects. To be exact, HHC’s potency is around 70% to 80% of Delta 9’s strength. 

​These pens operate by heating HHC oil, allowing users to inhale the vapor produced to provide a unique vaping experience. In addition to HHC, the extract can optionally contain terpenes and flavonoids that provide a personalized feeling. Also, vaping offers a streamlined method for consuming cannabinoids without the combustion associated with traditional smoking.

There are two main types of HHC vape pens: disposable vape pens and reusable pens with interchangeable cartridges. Disposable vape pens contain everything needed for vaping within a single unit, whereas reusable pens offer the flexibility to swap out cartridges, allowing for various HHC formulations. HHC vape pens provide effects that are typically mild and euphoric, making them a popular choice among cannabis enthusiasts.

Get to learn everything about HHC, its potential benefits to users, the risks involved, and more.

Are HHC Vapes Safe? 

The safety of HHC vapes is heavily contingent on their source and quality. Legitimate HHC vapes from reputable brands that comply with industry standards are generally considered safe. These manufacturers typically provide transparent information about their extraction processes, materials sourcing, and third-party testing results. 

Providing a Certificate of Analysis or CoA is one good indicator that a source can be trusted when supplying HHC vape products. It’s crucial to purchase HHC vapes from trusted retailers and avoid products from unknown sources, as some unreliable sellers may cut HHC oil with dangerous additives like vitamin E oil. 

For more information about the safety of consuming HHC products, click here.

Vaping Benefits 

Vaping offers several potential benefits compared to traditional smoking, which include: 

  • Reduced Exposure to Harmful Chemicals – It produces an aerosol that contains fewer toxic chemicals than cigarette smoke. Vaping doesn’t involve combustion, which is responsible for many of the harmful effects of smoking.
  • Potential Aid in Smoking Cessation – Vaping can be an effective tool for quitting smoking. Some smokers find vaping helpful as it mimics the hand-to-mouth action of smoking. A 2019 randomized control research found that using e-cigarettes daily led to an almost doubled rate of smoking abstinence versus other nicotine-replacement products after one year.
  • Cost-Effectiveness – While there are direct costs for e-cigarette devices, ongoing expenses are generally lower than buying cigarettes regularly. Estimates show that smoking 20 cigarettes a day costs about £3000 per year, while vaping can be considerably cheaper.
  • Odor Control – Unlike traditional smoking, vaping produces less lingering odor. The vapor doesn’t sink into furnishings and fabrics like cigarette smoke does. According to users, the smell from vaping is often described as more pleasant and dissipates quickly.
  • Customizable Experience – Users can control their substance intake, gradually reducing it if desired. There’s a wide variety of flavors to choose from, making the experience more exciting for some users.
  • Potential Health Improvements – Users aiming to switch from smoking to vaping may experience improved breathing and immune function. Also, vaping is estimated to be 95% safer for health than smoking, according to some sources.
  • Social and Environmental Considerations – Vaping poses no risk of passive or secondhand smoking as observed with cigarettes. Due to this observation, some places may allow vaping where smoking is prohibited, though policies vary per territory. 

Reusable vs. Disposable Vapes

Reusable vapes generally offer more long-term benefits compared to disposable vapes. Primarily, its refillable nature gives it several advantages including cost-effectiveness, environmental sustainability, and customization choices. 

However, disposable vapes provide convenience and simplicity, making them attractive to beginners or occasional users. While they have a lower upfront cost, disposables are not economical in the long term because users must constantly buy new devices. In effect, they also degrade the environment, as used vape pens go to landfills after use. 

HHC Vapes: How Are They Made? 

Initial Cannabinoid Extraction

The process of extracting HHC begins with obtaining CBD from hemp plants. This is typically accomplished through CO2 extraction or solvent extraction, which allows for isolating cannabinoids from the plant material. The extracted CBD forms the base for further conversion into HHC.

Initial extraction will vary depending on the intended cannabinoid used to make HHC. Since HHC in its natural form is in minute amounts, producers can use not only CBD but also THC to synthesize HHC. Manufacturers can use different routes when commercially producing HHC, and  it can be from: 

  • THC to Delta 8 to HHC 
  • THC to HHC 
  • CBD to Delta 8 to HHC

This initial phase is possible in three ways, but only the first two extraction processes are widely used because of their efficiency, safety, and productivity. 

Hydrogenation Process

Once CBD is extracted, it undergoes a chemical reaction known as hydrogenation. This involves introducing hydrogen gas to the CBD or THC molecule in a controlled environment, often in the presence of a catalyst such as palladium or platinum. This step transforms CBD or THC into HHC by modifying its chemical structure, enhancing its stability, and making it suitable for consumption through vaping. 

Solvent Extraction Process

The solvent extraction, another widely-used process, involves the following steps:

  • Soaking – The plant material is immersed in the chosen solvent, often with agitation.
  • Maceration—The coarse or powdered hemp plant is submerged in water, oil, or alcohol to direct bioactives into the liquid component. This process can last for several hours or days, usually at room temperature or colder.
  • Filtration – The liquid extract is separated from the plant material.
  • Solvent Removal – The solvent is evaporated, ideally at temperatures below 60°C, to produce a concentrated extract. 

Mechanical Separation 

Mechanical separation is not typically used as the primary method, but it can be applied during the initial cannabinoid extraction process. 

Standard mechanical separation methods include:

  • Dry-sieving – This involves shaking or rubbing dried cannabis over a fine mesh screen to separate trichomes.
  • Ice-water separation – Also known as bubble hash extraction, this method uses ice water to freeze and bring out trichomes from plant material.
  • Rosin press – This stage involves applying heat and pressure to cannabis material to extract cannabinoids and terpenes. 

While mechanical separation can be effective for isolating cannabinoids, it has limitations in HHC production primarily because of low yields, and its product requires further processing. 

Use of Chemical Reactors

The hydrogenation of CBD or THC occurs within specialized chemical reactors, allowing precise control over the reaction conditions, including temperature and pressure. This method enables the efficient conversion of cannabinoids and can result in varying concentrations of HHC depending on the specific reaction parameters used. The process yields both high and low-potency forms of HHC, though commercial products often contain a mix of both variants.

Purification and Quality Control

After hydrogenation, the obtained HHC mixture must be purified to eliminate residual solvents, catalysts, and unwanted byproducts. This purification may involve additional filtration or distillation techniques, ensuring that the final HHC product is of high quality and suitable for use in vape pens. Rigorous quality control measures, including third-party lab testing, are employed to validate the safety and potency of the extracted HHC.

Formulation for Vape Products

Once purified, HHC is typically formulated into vape-ready oils, which may include carrier substances to enhance absorption and ensure optimal vaporization. In addition, the formulation also raises bioavailability and ensures the product remains stable and effective during use. 

These carefully calibrated formulations are then packaged into vape cartridges or disposable pens for consumer use. The final products are designed to deliver an enjoyable vaping experience while meeting regulatory standards for safety and efficacy.

Manufacturing Components

HHC vape pens comprise several critical components, including a heating element, a reservoir for the HHC oil, and a battery to power the device. These components work together to vaporize the oil, allowing users to inhale it. The design and size can vary, with options for disposable pens or reusable models with interchangeable cartridges.

How Does An HHC Vape Work?

Similar to other vaping methods used for cannabinoids, this is how users enjoy the effects of HHC quickly and efficiently: 

Heating Mechanism

HHC vapes utilize a battery-powered heating element to warm the HHC extract within the device. When the extract reaches its boiling point, it vaporizes, creating a mist that users can inhale.

Vapor Production

Vaping differs from traditional smoking in the sense that it does not involve combustion. Instead, the heating element vaporizes the low-boiling point extracts without burning them, producing a cleaner, inhalable vapor.

Inhalation Process

Once the vapor is produced, users inhale it through the mouthpiece of the vape device. The inhaled vapor travels directly to the lungs, where it is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to a quicker onset of effects than other consumption methods like edibles or tinctures.

Device Types

Various devices are available for vaping HHC, including disposable vape pens and reusable cartridges attached to batteries. Disposable pens come pre-filled with HHC oil, while cartridges offer more customization on temperature control and choice of strains.

Effects and Potency

HHC vape users typically report effects of the compound that are between those of Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC. The effects may include relaxation, mood elevation, and enhanced sensory experiences similar to those experienced with other cannabinoid vapes. 

Woman smoking a vape inside of a car.

Pexels Photo by Brian Jiz

Effects of Using HHC Vapes

User experience reports that HHC vapes produce a euphoric high that is both calming and uplifting. This effect has been described as less intense than that from Delta 9 THC but more stimulating than Delta 8 THC vapes, making HHC an attractive choice for those seeking a balanced experience. 

Potential Therapeutic Benefits 

Vaping HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) may offer potential therapeutic benefits, although the existing research is still limited.​ Anecdotal evidence and preliminary studies suggest that HHC could have pain-relieving, anti-anxiety, and mood-enhancing properties. However, more comprehensive research is necessary to understand its effects and safety profile fully. 

Potential Recreational Benefits 

Many users find that vaping HHC can help elevate their mood. The energetic feeling associated with an HHC high can uplift the mind and body, which is perfect for users seeking a mood boost or an invigorating experience. In addition, users claim to experience a clearer-headed high compared to traditional THC. 

Another notable potential benefit is relaxation, which can be useful for unwinding after a long day. Many users have reported using HHC vapes to help with stress relief and anxiety management, providing a calming effect without heavy sedation. 

Duration of Effects 

The effects of HHC vapes typically last between 1 to 3 hours, with users usually feeling the onset within 20 minutes of consumption. This duration is generally faster than other consumption methods like HHC edibles, which can take 1-3 hours to take effect. The quick onset is attributed to the rapid absorption of the compound through the lungs and into the bloodstream.

Shared Side Effects

While HHC vapes offer distinct benefits, they share some common side effects with other cannabis-derived products. Users may experience dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, and altered coordination when using HHC vapes, similar to what they might encounter with Delta 8 and Delta 9 vapes. Additionally, some users report anxiety and dizziness, particularly with higher doses of HHC or when using products of uncertain quality.

It is essential to recognize that experiences can vary widely among individuals due to tolerance, metabolism, and individual body chemistry. For those new to the compound or cannabinoid products in general, starting with a low dose is advisable to gauge individual reactions and avoid unwanted side HHC effects. This caution is particularly important, considering that the long-term safety of HHC remains largely unknown, with users encouraged to select reputable products to mitigate potential risks.

For beginners, 1-2 small puffs are recommended, while more experienced users may take 2-3 regular puffs. It’s crucial to start low and go slow due to THC-P’s high potency, which is estimated to be 30 times stronger than regular THC.

Essential Factors When Choosing High-Quality HHC Vapes

Why compromise when it comes to your vaping experience? Learn the five factors that set the best HHC vapes apart from the rest, ensuring you get the quality you deserve. ​By prioritizing these elements, users can ensure a safe and effective vaping experience with HHC products.​

Brand Reputation and Reliability

When choosing an HHC vape, it’s crucial to select products from reputable manufacturers with a track record of producing high-quality cannabinoid products. Research the brand’s history, customer reviews, and industry reputation to ensure you’re purchasing from a trustworthy source.

Product Purity and Quality

High-quality HHC vapes should contain pure HHC extract without harmful additives or contaminants. Look for products that use natural ingredients and avoid those with artificial flavors or cutting agents that could compromise safety and efficacy.

Potency and Concentration

The potency of HHC vapes can vary significantly between products and brands. Consider your tolerance level and desired effects when selecting an HHC vape. Experts often recommend starting with lower potency options for new users to adjust individual reactions.

Third-Party Lab Testing

Ensure that the HHC vape you choose has undergone thorough third-party lab testing. These tests verify the product’s purity, potency, and safety by checking for dangerous contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and residual solvents. Reputable brands typically make these test results readily available to consumers.

Type of Vape Device

HHC vapes come in various forms, including disposable pens and refillable cartridges. When selecting the type of vape device that best suits your needs, consider factors such as battery life, durability, and ease of use. Some users may prefer the convenience of disposable pens, while others might opt for the flexibility of refillable systems.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can decide when to choose a high-quality HHC vape that provides a safe and enjoyable experience.

Where To Buy HHC Online

At MUNCHIES!, we offer various HHC vape products that deliver smooth, flavorful, and satisfying hits. Experience a balanced puff of relaxation and euphoria whenever you need to wind down after a long day or refuel your creative spark. Sniff in the leisure by trying our vape selections now. 

Our Selection of High-Quality HHC Vapes

Final Thoughts 

HHC vapes offer a unique and customizable vaping experience, blending the benefits of HHC with the convenience of modern vape technology. As with any cannabis-related product, choosing a high-quality HHC vape from a reputable brand is crucial to ensure satisfaction without compromising your safety.

The future of HHC vapes holds promising potential as more research unfolds and technology advances, potentially leading to even more refined and effective products. As the market continues to grow, HHC vapes may become a staple for those seeking a balanced and controlled vaping 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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