Iftikhar Alam
Author
Reviewed by Cannabis Experts
Published on: November 18, 2024 | Updated on: November 21, 2024
The cannabis plant contains over 100 cannabinoids, which impart different properties to weed. While THC and CBD are the two most popular cannabinoids, others have also become known due to their therapeutic effects.
The cannabis industry is continuously discovering more and more therapeutic cannabinoids. One such cannabinoid is hexa-hydrocannabinol or HHC. What is HHC weed, and how does it affect the human body?
This naturally occurring cannabinoid is extracted from the plant in minute quantities. The semi-synthetic HHC weed requires a hydrogenation process.
The question is, is it legal? Let’s discover more about this semi-synthetic HHC weed and its properties, legal status, and more.
What Is HHC Weed?
The legal cannabis market promotes diverse formulas with different cannabinoids. High-potency cannabis sativa plants have one such cannabinoid called hexa-hydrocannabinol or HHC.
HHC is a minor cannabinoid that is present in the cannabis plant but only in minute quantities. The semi-synthetic HHC derived from hemp is very similar to THC, the active compound responsible for producing the high we associate with using weed.
HHC is structurally and functionally similar to THC. However, it is created by adding hydrogen atoms to THC. This hydrogenation process converts the abundant molecule CBD or THC into HHC.
How Does HHC Differ From Other Cannabinoids?
Hexa-hydrocannabinol, or HHC, binds to the cannabinoid receptors in the body. These receptors are a part of the endocannabinoid system that controls many physiological functions such as appetite, mood, sleep, etc.
HHC is a different compound. It may work through the same mechanism of action as other cannabinoids, but it produces milder effects. HHC weed also contains more hydrogen atoms, which extends its shelf life.
This compound differs from THC in the sense that it has a less intense high, while CBD does not produce psychoactive effects at all.
As there is ongoing research regarding HHC weed, we might eventually discover the unique benefits it offers that aren’t found in other cannabinoids.
Potential Benefits of HHC Weed
As we discover more and more therapeutic uses of weed, specific cannabinoids make their way into the cannabis industry.
Both natural and synthetic HHC weed reduce the growth of cancer cells. It also has many other potential benefits due to the way it affects the body.
- Pain Management: HHC interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which provides pain relief.
- Reduces Anxiety: HHC has a milder and calmer high than THC, which helps reduce anxiety.
- Improves Sleep: HHC promotes better sleep, helps with insomnia, and regulates the sleep cycle.
- Reduces Inflammation: Like other cannabinoids, HHC also has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Longer Shelf Life: HHC can retain potency for longer due to hydrogenation. Therefore, it has a longer shelf life than THC.
- Regulates Mood: The high level of relaxation from HHC regulates mood.
- Cancer Treatment: HHC manages the side effects of cancer treatment.
Does HHC Weed Make You High?
Some cannabis users call HHC the ‘lite’ version of cannabis because it doesn’t get you as high as THC. However, it does produce mild psychoactive effects.
The high from HHC weed is also similar to THC. This could be linked to one research that proves that HHC has two isomers, one of which binds to the body’s cannabinoid receptors and the other being THC isomers.
Federal authorities do not regulate HHC. Therefore, if you buy the products, you have to test them for yourself to know what potency gives you an intense high.
Is HHC Legal?
Just like the many other cannabinoids, HHC weed is legal in the states where cannabis is legal because hemp naturally contains weed. However, some states ban semi-synthetic drugs, due to which HHC may fall under a controlled substance category.
HHC products have to follow the cannabis laws. If cannabis is legal in a city, the chances are that federal regulators will also legalize HHC. However, many places may choose to ban it as there isn’t sufficient research on its therapeutic uses.
As long as HHC remains hemp-derived cannabinoid with 0.3% THC, federal regulators can classify it as a natural product and legalize it.
In areas with strict cannabis laws and prohibitions, HHC may not be legalized anytime soon, especially if it falls under the synthetic drug category.
With more research, HHC might get legal status, which can make it easier to get your hands on this semi-synthetic version of THC.
What Are the Side Effects of HHC?
There is limited research on the side effects and safety of HHC weed. However, some potential side effects are found through consumer reports. HHC weed’s safety profile is close to THC.
Here are the most common side effects of HH weed.
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Increased appetite
- Red eyes
- Dry mouth
- Paranoia
- Altered senses
- Impaired movement
How to Use HHC Weed?
You can use HHC weed like other cannabis sativa weed strains. You can also use the semi-synthetic HHC in the form of oils, tinctures, capsules, and edibles.
Smoking HHC weed in a joint, bong, or pipe also delivers it directly to the bloodstream through the lungs.
Vaporizers can help you heat HHC to concentrate it without combustion for a smoother smoking experience. Pre-made HHC edibles have a slower and longer-lasting effect.
When you use HHC for the first time, you should start with a small dose.
You can always take more cannabis products once you understand how your body responds to it. Therefore, it’s best to start slow and low. Look for low-potency HHC weed to stay wary of side effects.
Final Words
To fully understand the extent of HHC’s effect on the body, we need more research. However, preliminary reports suggest it does offer a range of benefits. HHC is a naturally occurring potent cannabinoid that provides numerous therapeutic benefits.
The semi-synthetic version is made through hydrogenation. This cannabinoid also produces a high similar to THC but much milder, which proves ideal for people looking for a calming high.
The current research regarding HHC indicates that it is not dangerous. Therefore, safe dosing can give you optimal therapeutic benefits. Most HHC products are not regulated; hence, it’s best to do your research and learn what is HHC weed before you use it.
Sources
Footnotes
- Durydivka O, Palivec P, Gazdarica M, Mackie K, Blahos J, Kuchar M. Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) driven activation of cannabinoid receptor 1 results in biased intracellular signaling. Sci Rep. 2024;14:9181.
- Docampo-Palacios ML, Ramirez GA, Tesfatsion TT, Okhovat A, Pittiglio M, Ray KP, Cruces W. Saturated Cannabinoids: Update on Synthesis Strategies and Biological Studies of These Emerging Cannabinoid Analogs. Molecules. 2023;28(17):6434.
- Graziano S, Varì MR, Pichini S, Busardò FP, Cassano T, Di Trana A. Hexahydrocannabinol Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Analysis: The First Evidence for a Recent New Psychoactive Substance. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2023;21(12):2424–2430.
- Nasrallah DJ, Garg NK. Studies Pertaining to the Emerging Cannabinoid Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). ACS Chem Biol. 2023;18(9):2023–2029.
- Ferretti ML, Gournay LR, Bingaman MG, Leen-Feldner EW. A Survey Study of Individuals Using Hexahydrocannabinol Cannabis Products: Use Patterns and Perceived Effects. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2023 Nov 7.
References
- What Is HHC? WebMD. Accessed 09/29/2024.
- Cannabis (marijuana): What are the effects? Medical News Today. Accessed 09/29/2024.
- Does HHC Get You High? Healthline. Accessed 09/29/2024.
- The Endocannabinoid System: Essential and Mysterious. Harvard Health. Accessed 09/29/2024.
- FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD). U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Accessed 09/29/2024.
The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Cannabis use is subject to local laws and regulations, which vary widely by jurisdiction. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or altering an existing treatment regimen. The authors and publishers of this blog are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided herein. Use cannabis responsibly and in accordance with applicable laws. This blog is intended for adults aged 21 and over. The Sanctuary Dispensaries D186, D187.