Does HHC Contain THC? The Buzz Behind the Cannabinoid

In the evolving cannabis world, new cannabinoids are being discovered and gaining attention for their unique effects and properties. One such cannabinoid is HHC, which gives milder psychoactive effects than traditional THC and can alter mood and perception just like CBD.

Its similar chemical structure to THC cannabinoid makes people think it relates to THC. Some curious minds also wonder, does HHC contain THC? The relation of HHC and THC is just like solving a Rubik’s cube. 

Let’s unravel the mystery behind this question and get you the best logical answer. This article will discuss the HHC cannabinoid in detail from its production to its effects, legal status, and market popularity. 

What is HHC?

HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol) is a psychoactive cannabinoid found naturally in the hemp plant. However, it is present in trace amounts that hardly justify the cost of extraction of this cannabinoid. Therefore, most cannabis manufacturers make it in labs. 

The chemical structure of HHC is similar to that of delta-8 and delta-9 THC except for the hydrogens in HHC that place the double bond. HHC interacts with the body’s Endocannabinoid system and the brain parts that control eating and sleeping. 

The milder effects offered by HHC make it an attractive option for consumers seeking less potent effects than THC. However, the full potential benefits of HHC have not been fully discovered yet, therefore, scientists are still exploring their benefits and potential side effects.

Is HHC Natural or Synthetic?

HHC is considered a minor cannabinoid and is naturally present in the hemp plant, but in very small concentrations. It is often referred to as a semi-synthetic compound. 

The term semi-synthetic is used to distinguish it from other synthetic compounds that are made in the lab without the use of any natural plant component. Though HHC is also produced in labs, it is derived from natural components; therefore, named semi-synthetic.  

Discovered in 1940, HHC cannabinoid was synthetically created by the chemist Roger Adams in 1947. Synthetically, HHC can be manufactured from other cannabinoids, usually CBD, present in the hemp plant.

Most of the HHC products available in the commercial market are produced synthetically by the addition of hydrogen, termed as hydrogenation. 

Effects and Benefits of HHC

Though the HHC isn’t fully explored yet, its effects and benefits are still being discovered. However, as a hydrogenated form of THC, HHC produces effects, including milder euphoria, altered moods, cognitive effects, and aids in nausea, pain, and appetite stimulation. Most users report that HHC has similar but milder effects to THC.

About the potential benefits, this cannabinoid helps reduce the growth of cancerous cells. A study conducted in 2011 revealed the property of HHC as an anti-cancer agent that inhibits tumor growth and breast cancer cell-induced angiogenesis.  

This cannabinoid is also helpful in managing pain, however, there’s still more research needed on the potential effects and benefits of HHC.

HHC vs. THC

HHC and THC are both found in the cannabis plant and have key differences. The chemical structure of HHC is similar to that of delta-8 and delta-9 THC except for the hydrogen atoms in place of the double bond.

HHC is referred to as the hydrogenated form of THC, with the hydrogen atoms making it more stable and less likely to degrade over time. Both THC and HHC produce euphoric and relaxation effects, but HHC’s effects are less potent than THC's. It offers a milder and less potent experience to the users.

HHC  gives long-lasting effects and is supposed to stay longer in the body than THC, with a gradual onset of effects and a slow decline. The legal status of both cannabinoids varies in different regions.

Does HHC contain THC?

HHC is technically not a form of THC but its derivative. Despite having a similar chemical structure, these two cannabinoids are distinct from one another. The key difference is the presence of additional hydrogen double bonds in HHC. 

Despite this difference, HHC can be metabolized into various compounds similar to THC, such as THC-COOH. Though HHC does not inherently contain THC, there is the possibility that it contains traces of THC compounds, based on its formulation method.  

Will HHC Give a High Effect?

Yes, users report that HHC produces a mild high and stimulates mood changes and increased activity compared to traditional THC. Being a psychoactive compound, HHC interacts with CB1 receptors in the brain, influencing the release of neurotransmitters in the brain. 

According to a 2023 research, HHC’s effects are expected to be 50-80% less potent than traditional THC’s. The high effect produced by THC cannabinoid is stronger than that of HHC.

Legal Status and Market Popularity of HHC

The 2018 Farm Bill has legalized the hemp-derived cannabis products with THC content less than 0.3% by dry weight. As HHC is formulated from hemp, it falls under the premises of this Bill. 

As HHC is chemically formulated and not naturally extracted, its legal status is still unclear. However, it is legal in some regions and available in different product forms, including vape carts, edibles, oils, and tinctures. 

In the market, it places itself as an alternative to THC, making it popular among consumers seeking psychoactive effects, especially in regions where THC is restricted. 

Where Can You Buy HHC Products?

Due to the expensive manufacturing process, HHC is manufactured by a handful of companies, like AHDist that offer HHC products at retail. The products offered to retailers include HHC edibles, vape cartridges, tinctures, and oils. 

After sourcing premium quality HHC products from these trusted wholesaler, retailers offer them to their customers with diverse product range meeting the consumer needs. If you are a retailer then source HHC products from a reputable wholesale supplier such as AHDist.

We are committed to provide high-quality, pure, lab-tested products to our retail partners that help them build customer trust and loyalty. You can visit the official website, sign-up, finish your purchase, and congrats you have become our exclusive retail partner. 

Takeaways

HHC is a new and less-known cannabinoid found in small concentration in the cannabis plant, with effects similar to THC. Being a psychoactive compound, it significantly influence the mental and physical wellness of users.

Due to producing same effects to that of THC, people think that HHC contains THC. However, the research says that HHC is a derivative of THC and there are chances of containing small traces of THC due to manufacturing processes, but THC is not inherently present. 

If you are a retailer and wants to introduce HHC products to your customers, AHDist helps you through the process. Explore our HHC collection now to sky rocket in the retail market.