HHC vs Delta 9

With the explosion of hemp-derived cannabinoids in recent years, each cannabinoid faces the scrutiny of one essential question: how does it compare to traditional delta 9 THC?  Delta 9 is the cannabinoid that most consumers are familiar with, and likely what piqued their interest in hemp and cannabis in the first place.  For years it was the star of the show, but thanks to the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, there are lots of new players on the scene.  One of these new players is HHC, or hexahydrocannabinol.  Read on to learn everything there is to know about HHC vs delta 9.  In the meantime, if you’re ready to try HHC for yourself, be sure to check out our online store.  Choose from prerolls, disposable vapes, and gummies.

Origins

Both HHC and delta 9 owe their discovery to American chemist Roger Adams.  Way ahead of his time, Adams identified THC in cannabis in the 1940s.  Though he was unable to isolate it directly from the plant, he did manage to synthesize it.  From here, Adams used delta 9 to create HHC.  He did so by adding two hydrogen molecules to the THC.  This process is known as hydrogenation, and is actually used to make margarine as well.  

In the 1960s, Israeli chemist Raphael Mechoulam (aka the Grandfather of Cannabis) picked up where Adams left off.  He was able to isolate THC directly from the plant.  This move was responsible for an onslaught of further research into the cannabinoid.  Mechoulam remained dedicated to cannabis research right up until his recent death in March of this year.  

Due to its natural abundance, delta 9 seemed to be the only psychoactive cannabinoid worth pursuing for years.  While levels of THC vary depending on strain, it can account for up to 20% of a sample’s weight.  After the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, however, it suddenly became worthwhile to promote other cannabinoids.  The Farm Bill legalized hemp on a federal level, so other psychoactive cannabinoids, such as HHC, technically became legal as long as they were derived from hemp.

Hemp is legally defined as cannabis containing .3% or less delta 9 THC by weight.  Luckily, HHC can be made from delta 8 THC, which is where most, if not all, of the HHC currently on the market comes from.

Effects and stability

HHC vs delta 9 is not quite as potent.  That still doesn’t mean you should snooze on this cannabinoid.  If delta 8 is considered to be about 50% as potent as delta 9, HHC lies somewhere in between deltas 8 and 9.   When hydrogen is added, the change makes HHC have a lesser affinity for our bodies CB1 receptors.  These are the components of our endocannabinoid system that, when they interact with certain cannabinoids, are responsible for the high.

A less intense high is not all bad news.  Effects from HHC still include elevated mood, euphoria, changed visual and auditory perception, changes in heart rate, delayed reaction time, and slowed perception of time.  All this to say, you’re definitely still experiencing a high.  Since it’s not as potent, there’s not as much of a risk of anxiety and paranoia as there is with delta 9.

I personally find the high from HHC vs delta 9 to be a little more mentally stimulating.  I feel less lethargic, and I don’t experience the burnout that I typically get with delta 9.  HHC is ideal for a daytime smoke, yielding a relaxing, enjoyable high that doesn’t bring my productivity to a halt. 

Another thing that happens during hydrogenation is increased stability.  HHC is more shelf stable than delta 9.  This means that it is less vulnerable to factors like oxygen, light, and temperature that degrade the potency of delta 9 THC.

Legality

Odds are, you know if delta 9 is legal in your state or not!  Delta 9 is legal either medicinally or recreationally in the majority of the country, though it still remains illegal on a federal level.  HHC vs delta 9 in terms of legality is unfortunately not so straightforward.  While, yes, HHC is legal on a federal level due to the 2018 Farm Bill, certain states have been passing laws of their own.  Some states seem to regulate the cannabinoid industry, while others are out to ban psychoactive cannabinoids altogether.  Though most laws have not mentioned HHC by name, some have explicitly banned hemp-derived cannabinoids, which would include HHC.  Check out this map for a general overview, but be sure to specifically look into the laws of your state if you’re unsure.

So if you’re looking for a euphoric, productive high, you’re in good hands here at DVNT.  Our products are organic and lab tested, and we boast a 98% customer service rating.  Since HHC is so shelf-stable, you can stock up on essentials without the fear of prompt expiration.  Whether you opt for a vape, gummy, or preroll, we have what it takes to keep you lit.