The world of hemp is always evolving, as researchers come up with new analysis methods that let us take a closer look at the function of each individual compound in the plant. In terms of the hemp market, this allows us to enjoy a wider array of cannabinoids, as new discoveries lead to new hemp-derived products, each with their own unique value that can introduce an exciting variety of useful properties into the bodily system. Two cannabinoids that have been getting a lot of attention lately are THCV and HHC, and they both popped up on the market around the same time. Each compound is associated with specific effects, including psychoactive properties that are quite different from one another.
Where THCV and HHC Come From
Both THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) and HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) are naturally occurring cannabinoids in the hemp plant. This means that they are organic cannabinoids that are not synthesized in any way, but rather extracted directly from the plant material. While THCV is a homologue of delta 9, meaning that it is a close relative genetically, HHC is a hydrogenated form of HHC which almost identically mimics delta 9 THC in terms of its structure.
THCV was first discovered by chemists in 1973, while HHC was discovered somewhere around the same time. Both cannabinoids exist in only minor levels within the chemical composition of the hemp plant. While THCV is found in the flowering buds of the hemp plant, HHC exists in the plant’s seeds and pollen.
Their Psychoactive Properties
THCV and HHC are both psychoactive cannabinoids, but their psychoactive properties are extremely different from one another. HHC. Being so structurally similar to delta 9 THC, seems to behave almost exactly like delta 9 when it comes to its psychoactive properties, as well as its other properties. Many people who have used HHC have reported that the high is almost exactly the same. For those unfamiliar, HHC is more intoxicating than delta 8 or delta 9 – about 30% more – while offering feelings of euphoria and mellowing of the mood, although the more specific aspects of the high are strain-dependent. The high can make a person feel groggy and lose some clarity of mind, so be mindful of this when deciding to take it.
THCV’s psychoactive properties are a lot more complicated. At lower doses, it’s a CB1 antagonist, meaning that it doesn’t get the user high, and taking low doses of THCV with psychoactive cannabinoids can actually inhibit the other cannabinoids’ ability to get you high. But, at higher doses, it’s a CB1 agonist, meaning that it produces its own psychoactive effects. The exact number of milligrams required to be intoxicated by THCV are unknown and could very well vary from person to person. Further, the high is only possible when THCV is consumed or decarboxylated at a boiling point of 428 degrees, compared to the 315 degrees for delta 9 THC. And, the high associated with THCV seems to last for about half as long as that of delta 9. With both cannabinoids, the exact high has a lot to do with the amount taken, the strain and the person’s tolerance.
Non-Psychoactive Properties
THCV and HHC are both cannabinoids, so naturally, they offer properties beyond being psychoactive by attaching to cannabinoid receptors that make up the endocannabinoid system. While neither has been studied as intensively as CBD or delta 9 THC, we are able to make a good number of conclusions about their properties, and refer to the literature that is available.
THCV in particular has been studied to a surprising extent over the last several decades, as it seems to offer a lot of promising value that makes it worth exploring for more reasons than its potential to get you high. THCV works with the body’s CB2 receptors primarily, which regulate functions of the immune and digestive systems. Studies have shown a lot of promise in THCV’s potential to regulate both blood sugar and insulin levels in the body, in a way that could be critical to future diabetes applications. Further, the cannabinoid may play a role in managing obesity and food cravings. Studies show potential anti-seizure activity as well due to its role as a neuroprotectant.
HHC has not been studied as much as THCV, but we have a good idea of its potential effects regardless. Because HHC is a cannabinoid that seems to mimic delta 9 in a surprising number of ways, and because we know that it attaches to both CB2 receptors like THCV does, along with CB1 receptors in the nervous system, we can feel confident that its regulatory properties are widespread. HHC may play a role in managing mood, pain, nausea, appetite and neurological function, among other things that have yet to be shown in research.
Purpose for Taking Them
Many people seek out THCV in order to explore its potential psychoactive effects, but hopefully, these individuals know that using THCV to get high is a lot more complex due to its temperamental psychoactive nature discussed earlier. Because THCV has long-established properties pertaining to blood sugar and other functions of the body, it’s also sought-after to address needs that go beyond its intoxicating qualities.
Many people who seek out HHC do so because they are hoping to enjoy a federally legal alternative to delta 9 THC. If the cannabinoid behaves as similarly to delta 9 as we so far believe that it does, it could be a great choice for anyone who enjoys the properties of delta 9.
Whether or Not They are Legal
THCV and HHC are both considered federally legal cannabinoids due to the passing of the Farm Bill in 2018. However, in recent years, 12 states have banned delta 8 THC, and the legislation is confusing, but it’s likely that these same states have banned THCV and HHC as well:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Idaho
- Iowa
- Mississippi
- Montana
- Rhode Island
- Utah
THCV is broken down by an enzyme called THC-COOH, which also metabolizes delta 9 THC. Urine-based drug tests identify the THC-COOH enzyme rather than THC itself, which means that taking THCV could result in a failed drug test. HHC is not metabolized by THC-COOH, and therefore likely has no impact on a urine test. Lastly, remember that both THCV and HHC are substances that are intoxicating, and can therefore impair driving. You should not drive while under the influence of either cannabinoid.
Products That They Come in
THCV and HHC come in the same general product forms, because they are both turned into oil-based extracts that can easily be combined with different ingredients to make different types of formulas.
- Vape Carts: Vape cartridges are pre-filled with vape oil, available in all kinds of strains. They attach to standard 510-threaded vape pens.
- Disposable Vapes: Disposable vapes can be used right out of the box, and never require any assembly, recharging or refilling.
- Tinctures: Tinctures are oil formulas that absorb under the tongue (sublingual tissue) and come in a variety of milligram strengths.
- Edibles: Edibles absorb through the process of digestion, offering long-lasting effects and a distinctive body high.
- Flower: Raw hemp flower can be infused with pure THCV or HHC, in any strain that exists in nature.
- Dabs: Dabs are concentrates that yield very high potency levels, which is why they’re best for experienced users. They’re vaporized with a dabbing device.
- Capsules: Capsules refer to THCV and HHC oils that are encapsulated.
THCV and HHC: Two Different Cannabinoids to Consider for Your Hemp Regimen
THCV and HHC are both great options for anyone looking to explore new cannabinoids outside of CBD and delta 8. Each one can serve a specific, desirable purpose, and offer a specific type of high that’s enjoyable in its own way.
At The Calm Leaf, you can find a plethora of both THCV and HHC products, each made with lab-tested, hemp-derived extracts and clean, carefully sourced ingredients. Our collection of premium-quality HHC and THCV products allow you to experiment with these cannabinoids while feeling confident that you’re getting the absolute best on today’s market.