HHC, hexahydrocannabinol, is THC that has been converted to HHC is hydrogenation.
HHC was first isolated in 1944 by chemist Roger Adams when he added hydrogen molecules of Delta-9 THC.
THC and HHC are very close chemically structure compounds, with HHC having extra hydrogen atoms. In terms of their effects, HHC is considered to be slightly less strong than Delta-9 THC, but stronger than Delta-8 THC.
The length of time that HHC can be detected in a person's system varies depending on several factors such as amount consumed, frequency of use, and the individual's metabolism. On average, HHC can be detected in urine for 2-20 days, in blood for up to 24 hours, and in hair for up to 90 days.
While the 2018 Farm Bill made CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC, the legality of HHC (& THC) is determined by state laws. Checking your local state laws around HHC may be beneficial before purchasing.
While there is limited research into the benefits of HHC compared to other cannabinoids, early studies have reseached how HHC interacts with cancer cells. As well HHC is shown to have relieving properties and can soothe discomfort and tension.
- Relaxation
- Euphoria
- Increased appetite
- Altered perception of time and space
- Increased socialibility
- Paranoia
- Dry mouth
- Dry and red eyes
- Hunger
- Trouble sleeping
HHC will likely cause you to fail a drug test. While everyone's body chemistry is different and the methods of testing, it is suggested that you exercise caustion using hemp products.
Extract Labs offers two HHC vape products in its lineup. With high-quality, lab-tested ingredients, each vape offers a custom blend of minor cannabinoids that has been optimized for effect of our in-house experts.
Hexahydrocannabinol, or “HHC,” is one of over 100 minor cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. HHC is a THC relative long-known to science, but until recently not often discussed by cannabis users. As a minor cannabinoid, it occurs naturally in cannabis, but usually in extremely small amounts. Since extraction techniques for HHC are just getting off the ground, it’s still not widely known.
This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive overview of HHC, covering its history, extraction process, comparison with other THC compounds, effects, side effects, detection time, legality, and benefits.
History of HHC | What is HHC?
HHC was first isolated in 1944 by chemist Roger Adams, when he added hydrogen molecules to Delta-9 THC. This process, called hydrogenation, converts THC to hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). Hydrogenation is not limited to the CBD industry. The food industry uses a similar process is used to convert vegetable oil to margarine. While Adams created HHC from conventional marijuana-derived THC, these days the cannabinoid is typically isolated through a process that begins with hemp, the low-THC cousin of marijuana.
Extraction Process of HHC | Will HHC Be Widely Studied?
Since its discovery, HHC has been the subject of limited research and development, with most of the focus being on other cannabinoids like Delta-9 THC and CBD. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in the minor cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, including HHC. As the industry continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more research and advancements in the isolation and use of HHC in the future.
HHC is typically extracted from cannabis plants using methods similar to those used to extract THC. The two most common methods for HHC extraction are solvent extraction and mechanical separation.
Solvent extraction involves mixing the plant material with a solvent, such as ethanol or carbon dioxide, to separate the desired compounds from the plant material. The mixture is then evaporated to remove the solvent, leaving behind a concentrated extract containing HHC and other cannabinoids.
Mechanical separation uses mechanical force to separate the trichomes (the small, hair-like structures on the surface of cannabis plants that contain the majority of the plant’s cannabinoids) from the plant material. This can be done through dry-sieving, ice-water separation, or rosin press. The resulting extract is then further processed to remove impurities and isolate the HHC.
It is important to note that HHC is a minor component of cannabis, and because of this, the extractions yield will be low.
How Does HHC Compare to Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC?
HHC and Delta-9 THC are chemically similar compounds, with HHC having additional hydrogen atoms. This difference in molecular structure results in HHC’s potency profile to be considered slightly less strong than Delta-9 THC, but stronger than Delta-8 THC. Additionally, the effects of HHC tend to last a longer period of time, typically 10-12 hours, compared to the 6-8 hour duration of Delta-9 THC.
Benefits of HHC
There has been limited research into the benefits of HHC compared to other cannabinoids such as Delta-9 THC or CBD. However, early studies have produced promising research. A 2011 study looked at how hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) may interact with cancer cells. Also, Japanese researchers published a paper in 2007 describing HHC’s impressive relief-enhancing capability in mice. While these early studies suggest that HHC may have calming potential, more research is needed to fully understand its benefits and how it can be used in medical treatment.
Effects of HHC
Users of HHC have reported feelings of relaxation, euphoria, increased appetite, altered perception of time and space, increased sociability, and more. Some consumers describe experiencing HHC as a half-measure between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC, although individual results will vary.
HHC molecules bind to the body’s natural endocannabinoid receptors in a way similar to that of CBG, CBN, and other cannabinoids. This binding is what produces the effects that users experience.
What are the Side Effects of HHC?
Most of our knowledge about the side effects of HHC is based on limited research and anecdotal reports from users. However, users have reported similar side effects as those commonly associated with Delta-9 THC, such as paranoia, dry mouth, dry and red eyes, hunger, and trouble sleeping.
Like Delta-9 THC, the use of HHC can have a wide range of short-term side effects, including increased appetite, dry mouth, bloodshot eyes, slower reaction times, impaired memory and concentration, and increased heart rate. Long-term, excessive use of THC can lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation, and there may be an association with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
It’s important to approach HHC with caution, as with any new cannabinoid, as these compounds can be unpredictable and their effects on humans are not well understood. The use of HHC, especially in high doses, can have a negative impact on cognitive function, especially in young adults, which can be a concern for those who use it recreationally.
As with any new cannabinoid, it is important to approach it with some caution, as these compounds can be unpredictable, and their effects on humans is not well understood.
Detection Time of HHC | How Long Does HHC Stay in Your Body?
The length of time that HHC can be detected in a person’s system varies depending on several factors such as the amount consumed, frequency of use, and the individual’s metabolism. On average, HHC can be detected in urine for 2-30 days after last use, in blood for up to 24 hours, and in hair for up to 90 days. However, heavy or chronic use can prolong the detection time.
Factors affecting detection time include the amount of HHC consumed, frequency of use, and individual metabolism. Other factors, such as age, body mass, and overall health, can also play a role in how long HHC stays in the system.
HHC and Drug Tests
The likelihood of HHC showing up on a drug test can vary greatly due to differences in personal body chemistry and the method of testing. As a result, it is not possible to guarantee that using a hemp-derived product will not result in a positive test for HHC. To be safe, it is recommended to exercise caution when using hemp products, particularly when undergoing regular drug tests.
Is HHC Legal? | Legality of HHC
The regulation of HHC in the United States is complex and often considered a controlled substance. Synthetic cannabinoids, including HHC, are often considered controlled substances and possession, sale, or use can lead to legal penalties. However, the future regulation of HHC is expected to resemble that of THC.
The legal status of THC is subject to variations across countries and regions. While in some locations it is completely legal for both medicinal and recreational use, in others it is strictly prohibited. In the United States, the legality of THC is determined by state laws. Some states have legalized marijuana, including THC, for medical and/or recreational purposes, while others maintain a prohibition on its use.
Where Can I Find HHC Products?
Extract Labs offers two HHC vapes in its lineup and we are hoping to extend our HHC product line. Each vape, one tank and one disposable, offers a custom blend of minor cannabinoids that has been optimized for effect by our team of in-house experts. The blend consists of only cannabis-derived terpenes and hemp extracts, with no PG, VG, or other common fillers.
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Conclusion
HHC, or hexahydrocannabinol, is a minor component of cannabis that is typically extracted using methods similar to those used to extract THC. It is considered to have a potency profile between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC and is reported to have relaxing and euphoric effects that last for 10-12 hours.
While the side effects of HHC are similar to those of Delta-9 THC, including anxiety and paranoia, dry mouth, and increased appetite, its effects on humans are not well understood and more research is needed. HHC can stay in a person’s system for varying amounts of time, with an average detection time of 2-30 days in urine, up to 24 hours in blood, and up to 90 days in hair.
The legality of HHC varies by country and region, and in the United States it is often considered a controlled substance. Extract Labs offers HHC vape cartridges with a custom blend of minor cannabinoids and no fillers.
The benefits of HHC are still being explored, but early studies have produced promising results.However, more research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential of HHC.
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