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With more than 100 cannabinoids discovered, it’s not always easy to pick the one that delivers potential benefits while fitting your vibe. While two of the most popular categories we sell here at Delta Munchies are our delta 9 products and delta 8 products, they’re not for everyone.
Some people find delta 8 to be too underwhelming and delta 9 to be too much. If only there was a middle ground option! There is – it’s known as HHC. So what is HHC, and why should you take a chance on this mysterious, lesser known cannabinoid?
We’ll cover everything you need to know in this beginner’s guide, but just know you can experience firsthand what makes this cannabinoid so special with our world-class selection of HHC products online today!
What is HHC?
So what is HHC? Hexahydrocannabinol, or HHC in short, is one of the hundreds of compounds found in the cannabis plant. A better question is, what HHC going to do for you?
This naturally occurring compound binds to the body’s endocannaninoid system (ECS) a network of receptors responsible for everyday functions such as learning, eating, and sleeping. This is how you feel cannabis – both in terms of the classic high and its therapeutic effects.
The HHC potency is said to be 70% to 80% that of delta 9 THC, the compound most people think of when marijuana or cannabis comes to mind.
The Chemical formula for HHC is C21H32O2. It represents the molecular composition of HHC, indicating that each molecule of HHC contains:
- 21 carbon atoms (C)
- 32 hydrogen atoms (H)
- 2 oxygen atoms (O)
Now, you probably don’t need to worry about any of that for the sake of enjoying HHC. But you might be curious about how HHC is made.
How is HHC Made?
First, know that HHC is found naturally in cannabis – but in too small amounts to make extracting it and manufacturing products economical or practical. So instead, companies will use one of two methods – either hydrogenation of THC or conversion from CBD.
Hydrogenation of THC
This process introduces hydrogen atoms to THC in an effort to stabilize the molecule by replacing its double bonds with single bonds. It typically requires a catalyst like palladium or platinum and is conducted under high pressure for peak efficiency.
Conversion from CBD
HHC can also be produced by synthesizing CBD using hydrogenation techniques or even through specialized processes like artificial gastric juice.
Converting from CBD eliminates some of the legal restrictions associated with THC, but it’s also seen as a more controlled approach to creating HHC.
Alternative Production Methods
Some companies are experimenting with other ways to synthesize HHC, like using terpenes such as citronellal or L-carvone. But, the results and efficiency of this approach are still unknown – so for the time being, hydrogenation of THC or conversion from CBD remains the go-to method.
Will HHC Get You High?
This is what most people are interested in finding out – and the short answer is yes, you’ll get high by consuming HHC. The question is, what is HHC going to feel like? It’s more subtle and nuanced than a delta 9 high, but more powerful than a delta 8 high.
We’ve seen experienced users who have tried both say that HHC’s potency is only 70% to 80% as strong as that of Delta 9 THC. This is perfect for anyone trying to find a middle ground between delta 8 and delta 9. You can expect:
- Elevated mood
- Altered visual and auditory perception
- Changes in body temperature and heart rate
- Slowed reaction times
- A sense of relaxation without feeling overly sedated
HHC tends to bring out a more clear-headed and energizing experience compared to traditional THC, with some considering it a “sativa-like high” that’s awesome for stirring up creativity or boosting focus during the day.
However, HHC derived from indica-dominant strains may still provide a relaxing, euphoric experience to help you wind down after a long, stressful day. It’s a really versatile cannabinoid.
Embracing this high feels like you’re living in a dream. Everything is funny, and you feel closer to those around you. You’re more laid back, colors are more vivid, and food tastes more delicious. It’s nice to just sit back and not think for a while, or when you do think, just think about the pleasant things.
Your exact experience will be dictated by your consumption method to some extent. Using an HCC vape pen or smoking HHC flower will produce effects in as little as 5 minutes post-inhalation. They’ll be shorter-lived, though, easing away within a few hours.
On the other hand, HCC gummies take as long as 30-60 minutes to take hold – but the wait is worth it since effects can linger for up to 6 hours after consumption! We encourage you to try both methods and see which you prefer.
Are There Any Side Effects of HHC?
It sounds too good to be true – HHC can get you high, legally? What’s the catch? Is HCC safe? Yes! Since it’s milder than delta 9 THC you won’t have to worry about getting “too high” and the anxiety and paranoia that come with that.
That being said, there are a few rare but noteworthy effects to be aware of:
- Dry mouth and red eyes
- Increased appetite
- Sleep disturbances
- Dizziness and disorientation
- Accelerated heart rate
- Impaired motor skills
- Potential for cannabis dependence or addiction
- Increased anxiety or mood disorders
Avoiding these is as simple as enjoying HHC products from a trusted brand (like us!) and using them in moderation to avoid overdoing it and building up a tolerance. But beyond just getting high, let’s take a look at some of the reasons you might try adding HHC to your self-care routine.
HHC’s Potential Therapeutic Benefits
Since HHC is a relatively new cannabinoid in the market, we don’t have a ton of research proving its benefits – but we’ve seen plenty of potential for this cannabinoid in anecdotal evidence. So, what is HHC going to do for you? Some of its possible uses therapeuticly include:
- Chronic Pain Relief
- Anxiety and Stress Relief
- Sleep Aid
- Appetite Stimulation
- Neuroprotective Properties to combat Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s
- Mood Elevation and Euphoria
- Anti-inflammatory Effects
- Nausea and Vomiting Prevention
Is HHC Legal?
So how is HHC legal? It’s all thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill and the legal loophole it left open. Now, hemp-derived cannabis products are federally legal provided they contain no more than 0.3% Delta 9 THC on a dry-weight basis.
HHC is not listed as a controlled substance at the federal level even though it behaves fairly similarly to THC. Of course, the legal landscape is constantly evolving so you need to stay up to date – but as of now, HHC products are 50-state legal.
Is HHC Going to Show Up On a Drug Test?
Will you need to worry about drug testing if you only use HHC products? If so, how long does HCC stay in your system? Unfortunately, yes – HHC will show up on a shrug test.
Initial research suggested that HHC might not metabolize the same way as Delta-9 THC – but it lookd like that evidence was false. It makes sense when you think about it. Drug tests look for THC metabolites (THC-COOH) in the body, and HHC breaks down into similar compounds.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for how long it would take you to pass a drug test if you’ve been using HHC. Frequency of use, dosage, metabolism, body fat percentage, and test sensitivity are all factors to consider.
It could take you a few days to get the cannabinoid’s presence out of your system or over a month if you’re a heavy user. The earlier you can stop and give your body a chance to work the metabolites out, the better.
Wrapping Up Our Beginner’s Guide to HHC
That does it for our beginner’s guide to one of the lesser-known cannabinoids you have at your disposal here at Delta Munchies. So, what is HHC? It’s a nice middle ground between the milder delta 8 THC and the more intense delta 9 THC.
Our blog has additional resources if you want to learn more about HHC:
But with premium-grade HHC products just a few clicks away, why not try it yourself today and see what the buzz is all about? Shop Delta Munchies for lab-tested, legal cannabis products shipped straight to your doorstep.
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