Hemp plants presented in a rowWith the incredible popularity of hemp, CBD, and THC-infused products, many of you might have heard of delta-8 and delta-9, but not the newest THC to hit the market - HHC, or hexahydrocannabinol.

In this post, we’ll take a deep look into HHC, which is a type of cannabinoid rather than a type of THC. You’ll learn why HHC is growing in popularity, and we’ll break down the differences between delta 8, delta 9, and HHC. 

Keep reading to learn more about the legality of HHC and to see if it may assist with passing your next drug test.

What Is HHC?

First created in 1944 by the chemist Roger Adams, HHC is a process where hydrogen molecules are added to delta-9 THC. Known as hydrogenation, this process essentially converts THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) into HHC (hexahydrocannabinol).

Hydrogenation improves the structural integrity of THC - making it last longer and protecting it from harmful UV rays and exposure. The hydrogenation process is also used in other industries to improve shelf life, such as converting vegetable oil to margarine.

THC VS HHC

hydrogen atom moleculeWhile hydrogenation “creates” HHC from THC, you can also find it occurring naturally in the lower-THC cannabis variety known as hemp. In fact, HHC, like THC, is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in hemp.

THC is the psychedelic component most often associated with marijuana. Thanks to the legalization of hemp, the low-THC cannabis variety, users can enjoy its effects throughout the U.S. Some of the main differences between HHC and THC include the following:

  • HHC (hexahydrocannabinol)
  • It can be created with cannabis.
  • It also occurs naturally in hemp.
  • Legal in most states.
  • Minor cannabinoid
  • THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)
  • Its chemistry can be altered to form delta-8 and delta-10 THC.
  • It occurs naturally in cannabis and hemp.
  • Usually legal in small doses (0.3%).
  • One of two primary cannabinoids, along with CBD.

What Are Some Of The Benefits Of HHC?

Research on HHC is minimal. However, we know that cannabinoids sometimes work with your body to produce therapeutic effects. For example, in 2015, researchers found that cannabidiol helped relieve several anxiety disorders.

Two promising studies showed that HHC might positively impact your health. The first study, published in 2007, demonstrated that HHC provided pain relief to test mice. The second study, published in 2011, showed that HHC slowed the spread of tumors in breast cancer patients.

HHC Vape and hemp budsTHC and HHC, while both cannabinoids are not the same thing. Because HHC is derived from cannabis, however, it may produce similar effects to THC, including:

What Are Side Effects of HHC?

Even though THC and HHC are not technically the same thing, they share an almost identical molecular foundation. The main difference is that THC has a missing carbon double bond and ester atom compared to HHC, making it less stable for shelf-life.

Because of their everyday structural makeup, it may be assumed the side effects are very similar, including the following:

  • Cottonmouth
  • Food cravings
  • General anxiety or paranoia
  • Increased heart rate
  • Insomnia
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Nausea

Will HHC Show Up on Drug Tests?

HHC vape cartridge getting filled properly in labThis is where it gets a little hazy. We’re still so new to HHC and its effects that it’s unclear whether or not it shows up on drug tests. The Department of Transportation, for example, tests CDL drivers for marijuana, but they typically look for THC.

We’re still not 100% sure if HHC is metabolized into THC after consumption. Earlier studies demonstrated that HHC is broken down into 8beta-hydroxy-HHC and 8alpha-hydroxy-HHC, similar to THC.

In addition, manufacturers might have residual forms of THC in an HHC-labeled product. This can cause a spike in THC levels come drug testing time. We recommend avoiding HHC products before taking that next drug test to be safe.

Will HHC Get Me High?

Although not as intense as traditional THC, like that found in marijuana, HHC will get you high. Most high THC cannabis strains contain ample amounts of delta-9, whereas lower-THC products fall into the delta-8 category. 

HHC users typically report a high of between delta-8 and delta-9. Besides the benefits most see from CBD usage, like a feeling of calmness and well-being, HHC also produces a euphoric feeling. If you’re looking for a milder high but still want the benefits cannabinoids provide, HHC is a good fit.

Is HHC Legal?

In 2022, the U.S. Court of Appeals ruled that delta-8 THC was federally legal, according to the Farm Bill hemp definition.

So, what is the 2018 Farm Bill Act?

The Farm Bill Act, passed by Congress in 2018, stipulates that hemp is legal to be sold and consumed as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. Because hemp contains all the major and minor cannabinoids, like HHC, the Farm Bill Act, held up by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, ensures its legality as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC.

Stay tuned for this development. Some states may shortly argue to overturn the Court of Appeals 2022 decision, especially as HHC grows in popularity.

Key Points To Remember

Person holding bottle of HHC oilSo far, there are no known reports of adverse effects when taking HHC. CBD, by far the most popular legal option for many cannabis users, is considered safe and well tolerated by the World Health Organization (WHO).

When choosing a CBD, and you want to receive all cannabinoid compounds present in the hemp plant, shoot for a Full-Spectrum CBD Tincture.

Eden’s Herbals 1000 MG Full Spectrum Cinnamon CBD Oil provides the entire array of cannabinoids that provide you with the following:

  • 0.3% THC.
  • All 100 plus active cannabinoids present in the hemp plant.
  • Provides your ECS with the entourage effect, thought to promote healing.
  • It contains valuable terpenes and flavonoids. 
  • Great Cinnamon flavor and MCT oil for max absorption.

In addition, we source all our hemp from American organic farms. That means our full-spectrum products are free of pesticides. We also use a CO2 extraction method that leaves a purer, more high-quality finish that’s free of chemicals and harmful solvents. Lastly, we’re lab-certified - guaranteeing potency and legality!

If you want to learn more about HHC, contact Eden’s Herbals at [email protected] today!

*These statements have not been evaluated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any illness. Medical advice should be taken from a medical professional.

All of the articles on this site are written by 3rd party content providers, expert bloggers or doctors not directly affiliated with Eden’s Herbals.

Individuals should learn the risks and side effects prior to taking CBD. Make sure to always check with a medical professional before starting any new CBD treatment or medication that is not FDA approved.