Is HHC Psychoactive?
If you’re curious about HHC, you might be wondering how it will stack up to other cannabinoids you’ve tried in the past. Is HHC psychoactive? Will it get you high the way THC does? Keep reading to learn all about HHC, and what you can expect from consuming it.
In the meantime, if you want to find out if HHC is psychoactive by doing field research of your own, check out our selection of HHC blunts and prerolls.
What is HHC?
HHC is only now having its moment in the limelight, but it’s far from new. Hexahydrocannabinol, or HHC, was initially discovered in the 1940s by American chemist Roger Adams. Adams added hydrogen to cannabis-derived THC, and synthesized HHC. Adams’ discovery was way ahead of its time; however, many decades later, HHC would become mainstream thanks to the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill.
Is HHC legal?
The farm 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, due to the verbiage of the bill, suddenly, tons of cannabinoids became federally legal as long as they could be derived from hemp. This includes HHC. Most, if not all, of the HHC on the market is derived from hemp. Through the process of hydrogenation, which is also used to make things like margarine, hemp-derived delta 8 can be used to make HHC.
Since the passing of the farm bill, however, individual states have responded with legislation of their own. Some states have imposed restrictions and regulations regarding hemp-derived cannabinoids, while others have banned them altogether. Definitely stay current with what’s going on in your state before indulging.
Is HHC psychoactive?
Despite being less potent than THC, HHC is still psychoactive enough to produce a high. Its potency is estimated to lie somewhere between delta 8 and traditional delta 9 THC. That being said, less potency than THC might not be a bad thing. For some, less potency can mean less potential for anxiety or paranoia. For others, a less intense high can offer opportunities to enjoy a creative buzz while staying on task. HHC is an excellent cannabinoid to enjoy without slowing down completely. And, for those that want to enjoy THC-levels of high, they can simply use more HHC to experience a higher high.
HHC vs THC?
The addition of hydrogen to THC has two main effects. The first, is increased shelf stability. This means that HHC is less susceptible to damage from light, heat, and oxygen. If you’re someone who likes to be prepared without having to worry about your product going stale, then HHC is definitely the cannabinoid for you.
The second effect of the addition of hydrogen is decreased potency. HHC is psychoactive; however, the hydrogen changes the molecular structure and makes it less able to bind with our CB1 receptors. A cannabinoid’s bond with these receptors determines the high we will feel after consumption. THC molecules are a perfect match for these receptors; they fit like a key into a lock, which produces a strong high. While HHC still attaches to these receptors, the attachment isn’t as secure as with THC.
HHC vs delta 8
HHC is regarded as being more potent than delta 8. Unfortunately, more research is needed about both cannabinoids, but anecdotally, I can say that this has been true in my experience. I also find the HHC high to be more stimulating and alert than both delta 8 and delta 9 THC.
HHC vs CBD
Unlike HHC, CBD is not psychoactive. Though it interacts with both sets of receptors in our endocannabinoid system, this interaction happens in a more periphery way than with HHC. This interaction is not fully understood, however, many believe CBD to be a promising cannabinoid for people looking for relief without experiencing a high.
The bottom line
HHC is psychoactive. Though it is not as psychoactive as THC, you will definitely still feel high after consuming HHC. HHC still attaches to our CB1 receptors, just not as securely as THC does. If you’re looking to experience a more stimulating high, then HHC may be the cannabinoid for you. Plus, you don’t have to worry about your supply going stale thanks to its superior shelf life. Check out our online store to have lab tested HHC products shipped directly to your door.