Key Takeaways
- Comparing HHC and THCO, it's clear to see that they differ in potency and reliability.
- The THCO high is intense and psychedelic, while HHC offers a smoother, clearer-headed experience, similar to Delta-9 THC.
- HHC occurs naturally in trace amounts and is legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, while THCO is synthetic and federally illegal.
The world of cannabis grows more complex the deeper you dive into it.
What began with THC and CBD has evolved into dozens of variations from Delta-11 and Delta-9 to Delta-8 and THCP. Now, we have two cannabinoids causing a stir: HHC and THCO. But how do they compare? Let’s explore these two compounds, including their effects, potency, safety, legal status, and more.
What is HHC?
Hexahydrocannabinol, or HHC, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in trace amounts of hemp and cannabis plants. First discovered back in the 1940s, HHC stayed under the radar until recent advances in extraction and synthesis made it commercially viable.
Because it’s so rare, most HHC is made in labs by hydrogenating hemp-derived CBD. This process involves adding hydrogen molecules to the cannabinoid structure, creating a stable, shelf-friendly compound.
The HHC high feels pretty similar to Delta-9 THC but with a lighter, smoother profile. Our customers often refer to the high as relaxed, mildly euphoric, and clear-headed. It’s popular among those looking for the benefits of cannabis but who don’t want to feel overwhelmed.
What is THCO?
Tetrahydrocannabinol-O-acetate, or THCO, is a synthetic cannabinoid. Unlike HHC, it doesn't occur naturally in cannabis. It's made by converting hemp-derived CBD into Delta-8 THC, then adding acetic anhydride, a reactive chemical that creates THCO acetate.
The THCO high is known for its intense, sometimes psychedelic effects. Some users note that it can be up to three times stronger than Delta-9 THC, which can be a good or bad thing depending on what you’re looking for.
Unlike natural cannabinoids, THCO must be metabolized by your body before it becomes active, which means the effects are delayed. We don’t recommend it for beginners looking for a casual, functional buzz.
Comparing HHC and THCO
At first glance, both seem pretty similar. They're both lab-created cannabinoids. However, their effects, legality, and safety concerns are worlds apart.
|
Feature |
HHC |
THCO |
|
Type |
Naturally occurring (semi-synthetic) |
Fully synthetic |
|
Potency |
About 70-80% as strong as Delta-9 THC |
Up to three times stronger than Delta-9 THC |
|
High Type |
Smooth and relaxing with mild euphoria |
Heavy, long-lasting, and psychedelic |
|
Onset Time |
10-20 minutes |
30-60 minutes |
|
Duration of High |
2-4 hours |
6-8 hours |
|
Legality |
Federally legal (hemp-derived) |
Federally illegal (synthetic) |
|
Common Forms |
Edibles, vapes, tinctures |
Vapes and edibles (limited availability) |
Safety Considerations
While both HHC and THCO appear safe when made in controlled lab environments, it's important to assess their quality. Because HHC is hydrogenated, it's relatively stable and easier to purify. It's also available from more reputable, third-party lab-tested brands.
On the other hand, THCO involves acetic anhydride, a highly corrosive chemical, so it must be handled with extreme care. Poorly made THCO products can contain harmful residues. With limited regulation, contamination risks can be very real.
Legality and Accessibility
Legally, HHC products have the advantage. They’re compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill in most states, as long as they’re derived from hemp and contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight.
THCO is a different story. The DEA classified it as a Schedule 1 substance back in 2023, making it federally illegal. That means if you ever find THCO products online, the legality is murky, and the risk is yours.
What are the Best Ways to Use HHC and THCO
You'll find HHC in many familiar forms, including vapes, edibles, gummies, and tinctures. THCO is typically available as edibles or vapes, but due to its legal restrictions, it's much less common.
Overall, for most cannabis users, HHC offers a safer, more predictable experience.
Bringing Our Comparison to a Close
If you're looking for an experience that's powerful, long-lasting, and similar to psychedelics, it’s hard to beat the THCO high.
- THCO offers intense effects, often referred to as triple the strength of Delta-9 THC.
- As a synthetic cannabinoid, it’s currently considered illegal on the federal level making it hard to come by safely.
However, for a safer, more accessible high that's more suited for regular use, HHC is the way to go.
- HHC still offers a decent high with about 75% the strength of Delta-9 THC.
- Since it’s a naturally occurring cannabinoid derived from hemp, it’s considered legal so you can purchase it from reputable brands.
FAQs
1. Is THCO Stronger Than HHC?
Yes, THCO is significantly stronger than HHC, both in psychoactive impact and duration. However, its strength often makes it unpredictable and potentially uncomfortable for casual or first-time users.
2. What Does the High Feel Like?
When comparing the THCO effects vs those of HHC, potency is only part of the picture. What we really like to look at is the quality of the high.
HHC produces a mild, relatively balanced high that's great for unwinding at night, socializing with friends, or doing creative work. It's mood-enhancing with a subtle feeling of euphoria, a relaxed body sensation, and clear, calm mental focus.
By contrast, the THCO high is intense and cerebral. Many users say the experience is a slow build, followed by a strong, dreamlike experience. You may feel a heaviness or full-body euphoria with mild visuals, a deep introspection, or detachment.
In many cases, THCO is often compared to low-dose psychedelics rather than traditional THC or cannabis. While it can be fascinating for experienced users, it can be equally overwhelming for beginners.
3. Which High Lasts Longer?
The duration of the high is another key factor to look at when comparing these two compounds.
THCO is metabolized slowly by your liver, so the effects can last anywhere from 6-8 hours (twice as long as the Delta-9 high). The HHC high typically lasts 2-4 hours, depending on how you consume it and how much you take.
For pain relief and relaxation, the THCO high can be incredibly appealing. However, it can also feel uncomfortably heavy if you use too much.
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