A Discovery Of HHC
HHC has become a popular cannabinoid within the last several years. But, prior to the surge in popularity of hemp-derived cannabinoids, HHC was virtually unheard of. Is it new? Why is it suddenly popular now? Read on to learn more about the discovery of HHC, and what has led to its rise today.
In the meantime, you can do some HHC discovery of your own by enjoying our HHC prerolls.
The discovery of HHC
HHC is not a recent discovery. In fact, it was discovered approximately 80 years ago, by an American chemist named Roger Adams. In 1939, Adams had been given a Treasury Department license to work with cannabis in his lab. Adams was ahead of his time, criticized by his superiors for noting the “pleasant effects” of cannabis. In the 1940s, Adams succeeded in identifying and synthesizing CBD, CBN, and THC.
He was also the first to synthesize HHC. He did this by adding hydrogen to THC. This process of hydrogenation is also used to make margarine from vegetable oil.
What is HHC?
Adam’s hydrogenation of THC was responsible for the discovery of HHC. This process of hydrogenation has two main effects on HHC. The first is an increase in stability. HHC has a longer shelf life than THC. This means it is less susceptible to degradation from light, heat, and oxygen.
The second result of hydrogenation is a decrease in potency. The addition of hydrogen changes HHC’s molecular structure. The shape doesn’t attach to our CB1 receptors as securely as THC does. This is what makes HHC less potent.
Why now?
If HHC was discovered so long ago, why is it only having its moment in the limelight now? HHC’s popularity is due to the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill. This bill legalized hemp on a federal level. Legally, hemp is defined as cannabis containing .3% or less delta 9 THC. The intent of this bill was to increase hemp production for goods like clothing, rope, and food. However, the law had also technically legalized hemp-derived cannabinoids. Suddenly, a whole slew of cannabinoids became legal to sell as long as they were derived from hemp. This is why delta 8, HHC, THCO, and others have popped up seemingly out of nowhere these past several years.
In terms of legality, HHC lies on the opposite side of cannabis. Cannabis is still illegal federally, while some states have legalized it on their own for recreational or medical use. HHC and other hemp derived cannabinoids are legal federally, but since the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, some states have implemented legislation of their own. Certain states have affirmed the federal law, keeping HHC legal. Others have adopted regulations on the hemp market. And still others have banned HHC entirely.
HHC effects
Plenty of people across the country have done a little discovery of HHC on their own. And users love it as an alternative to THC. In terms of effects, HHC is not as potent as THC, as mentioned above. However, this difference in potency can actually be a good thing. Less potency can mean less potential for anxiety and paranoia. If these are issues you have with THC, then HHC might be for you. If you’re trying to enjoy a nice buzz without completely losing track of your day, then HHC can be an excellent option. Personally, I find the HHC high to be more stimulating than a THC high. I also find that if I want to feel a THC-like high, I can simply smoke more HHC and I’ll be there in no time.
The bottom line
While HHC has only gained popularity recently, it’s not a new discovery. Adams’ innovation from the 1940s has been especially relevant recently thanks to the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill. Thanks to this legislation, HHC and other cannabinoids that can be derived from hemp are legal on a federal level. HHC presents an excellent alternative to THC for those looking for the joys of THC, without the intensity. DVNT has you covered for reliable, lab tested HHC products.