Maybe you’ve noticed that there is a new federally legal (2018 Farm Bill) cannabinoid on the market called hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), that is starting to pop up in the catalogs of your favorite hemp retailers. HHC is one of about 150 individual cannabinoids in the hemp plant, and the more advanced our cannabinoid research capabilities get, the more we are able to understand the unique value that each cannabinoid in the plant has to offer. HHC shows a lot of promise in terms of its properties and usefulness, and demand for the cannabinoid is growing as more and more hemp enthusiasts are getting acquainted with its effects.
How Was HHC Discovered?
Like many of the cannabinoids that we are developing a strong interest in, hexahydrocannabinol is a minor cannabinoid in the hemp plant, existing naturally only in very trace levels. Because of this, only recently has the compound been thoroughly isolated so that researchers could analyze its characteristics and properties independently from the rest of the plant’s chemical composition.
HHC was discovered sometime in the 1960s or 70s, when a wave of interest in cannabinoids led to researchers looking more closely at the chemical structure of cannabis. It was discovered when scientists were specifically seeking out other cannabinoids that behave similarly to delta-9 THC, an illegal cannabinoid banned for its psychoactive effects.
Will HHC Get Me High?
Yes, hexahydrocannabinol will get you high. It’s an intoxicating cannabinoid that, interestingly, seems to behave almost identically to delta-9 THC. Therefore, although the topic needs more research, you can expect the high of HHC to be similar to that of marijuana, meaning that it’s likely more potent in its ability to intoxicate than delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC. So, if you’re going to take it, best to go slowly so as to not find yourself getting “too high” as a beginner with a low tolerance to these effects.
What are the Properties of HHC?
Although hexahydrocannabinol was discovered decades ago, there really isn’t a lot of research available on its effects as interest in the compound on a commercial level is quite new, and so most research has gone toward studying other cannabinoids. But, we do know that the compound binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, better known as “cannabinoid receptors”.
- CB1 receptors are located in the body’s nervous system, which may regulate functions like mood, pain tolerance, neurological processes, etc.
- CB2 receptors exist in the immune system and digestive system, and can have a role in regulating inflammation, digestive processes, and other functions managed by these systems of the body.
Because HHC binds to both types of receptors, its effects are likely quite widespread.
Like we mentioned, hexahydrocannabinol seems to have the unique ability to behave very similarly to delta-9 THC – so much so that many people say that they don’t really notice a difference in how they feel when comparing the two cannabinoids. Not surprising then that HHC has been found to have potential effects on appetite, nausea, mood, and pain levels, quite like delta 9.
HHC Product Types
Hexahydrocannabinol is still very new to the market, and it’s only been available for purchase for a couple of months. As it becomes more popular in the coming months, we’ll see it more widely accessible for purchase in various forms and product types. But, in the meantime, you can purchase HHC from certain brands that do carry it.
In fact, the HHC products you’ll find on the market contain a hexahydrocannabinol isolate that is concentrated so that its effects can be pronounced.
- Vape Cartridges: Currently the most popular delivery method, which isn’t surprising considering the fact that most people prefer to vape their favorite cannabinoids. These 510-threaded cartridges are disposable and contain HHC extract combined with the terpene profiles of specific strains, with many strain options from which you can select from.
- Disposable Vape Pens: An alternative to vape cartridges, these devices can be used right out of the box as they never require any charging, refilling of vape oil, or assembly of any kind. Also come in a rich strain variety.
- Tinctures: Only a few manufacturers have come out with them, but we do expect to see this delivery method increase in popularity. HHC tinctures will come in lots of different milligram strengths, and offer a sublingual means for administering the cannabinoid.
- Edibles: Are likely to be a big hit, as cannabinoid-infused gummies are extremely popular in general. Will primarily be popular because they can offer many hours of effects while introducing a body high into the experience.
- Capsules: As a lot of people enjoy taking their favorite cannabinoids in the form of capsules, HHC capsules will likely emerge on the market in the near future.
- Flower: Raw hemp flower buds infused with HHC extract, will appeal to anyone who prefers the rawest and purest form of hemp that there is. It should come in lots of strains, and be found in both loose bud and pre-roll forms.
- Dabs: These are concentrates that have extremely high HHC potency levels and are made for dabbing with a dabbing device. They are not for beginners due to how strong the effects can be.