Discussions on hemp and marijuana usually focus on cannabis cannabinoids THC and CBD. But, every version of the Cannabis Sativa L. plant packs more than 100 cannabinoids that are not CBD. A deeper examination of a handful of particular varieties has identified exciting effects, as well as possible advantages.
In recent years THCs like delta-8 and delta-10 are becoming popular alternatives to delta-9-THC found in marijuana. It comes down to the gray legal areas for these best HHC cannabinoids, which allow retailers to gamble by offering these substances.
Hexahydrocannabinol is another substance that’s in the murky realm. It is, in fact, more complicated because the HHC derived from hemp does not contain, even though it has intoxicating effects. It can come from both THC and HHC!
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HHC Definition & History
In the 1940s, Roger Adams, a chemist who discovered CBD, developed hexahydrocannabinol.
Hydrogenated tetrahydrocannabinol is also known as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Hydrogenation, a process that transforms THC into HHC, is how Adams made delta-9THC from hydrogen compounds. Margarine is also made using the same process.
Although created over seventy years ago, there’s little research on HHC and its consequences. But, they are aware that the use of hydrogen atoms to increase the saturation of the molecule can extend its shelf-life by a significant amount.
HHC does not contain double bonds, unlike THC. Instead, it consists of two hydrogen atoms. It contradicts CBN and produces by the fact that THC increases the number of double bonds while breaking down. Using HHC alters THC’s affinity for the CB1 and CB2 receptors in your body by destroying the double bonds of THC and replacing them with hydrogen.
HHC retains a greater proportion of its potency for a much longer period of time than delta-9-THC. UV light or high temperatures don’t break it down as easily.
How is HHC Produced?
While Adams invented hexahydrocannabinol from THC, manufacturers creating HHC products use hemp. In most cases, it is for legal reasons, which we will discuss next.
Making HHC starts with the cannabidiol (CBD) taken from raw hemp. The CBD is then distilled and isolated. Powder-like in texture, the CBD isolating products are typically sold separately.
The next step is transforming the isolated substance into a concentrated delta-8 with a minimum of 96 percent effectiveness. After that, you will hydrocarbon the D8 by using HHC and a pair of active catalysts, typically heavy metals.
The rest depends on the maker. Many brands claim that they have an HHC manufacturing process that results from a “proprietary procedure” without divulging much. We’re aware that companies have to undergo various methods of filtration to get rid of the metals before they can bring the product on the market.
In addition to the legalities, one could make HHC from THC in a lab. Making hydrogen from THC involves exposing the concentrated THC to hydrogen at high pressure as well as a catalyst made of metal such as platinum, palladium, or nickel. This catalyst will be removed from the mix after it has finished its work.
A study in 2007 discussed the possibility of making CBD into various HHC forms through gastric juice. But, there’s no additional information regarding this method of creating HHC. In addition, there’s an idea that it’s possible to make HHC from a terpene dubbed citronellol.
What companies do to create HHC can leave the question of legality open for discussion.
Is HHC Legal?
According to the manufacturers of HHC cannabinoid-based products, the chemical is legal.
Sellers of HHC make use of hemp and CBD in the production of their products with great care. CBD can be legalized under the new 2018 Farm Bill because it occurs naturally in the hemp plant. The hemp plant is legally permitted to cultivate throughout the United States as long as the highest delta-9-THC concentration is 0.3 percent.
While hemp is most famous for its large quantities of CBD but it’s also a source of different cannabinoids. Technically, any products containing other hemp-derived cannabinoids are legal if they don’t exceed the 0.3 THC threshold of 0.3 percent. The manufacturers of hemp-based products insist that everything is permitted.
Is HHC Stronger Than Delta-9-THC?
It is hard to determine the exact potency of HHC because of the absence of research. Even the manufacturers of HHC products admit to the inconsistent nature. The proportions of inactive to active HHC molecules may differ from a batch. While companies do their best to boost the number of active ingredients in their products, they aren’t in complete control over the number of active compounds.
Based on their chemical structures, it appears probable that HHC is more potent than Delta-8 but not as powerful as delta-9. There are many theories in the field, but it believes that hexahydrocannabinol is about eighty percent as potent as D9.
Generally, any THC form with at least four carbons in its side chain can produce intoxicating effects. For instance, delta-8, delta-9, and delta-10 THC have five carbons. The same is true for HHC. THCP, the most potent type of THC, comprises seven carbons.
Does HHC Give You a high?
Yes. HHC is a stimulant that can induce intoxication but not in the same way as delta-9 THC that you can find in marijuana.
People who have tried the product say HHC effects are like THC, such as euphoria, changes in visual and auditory perception, and changes in the way we think. In general, expect results similar to delta-8-THC in the sense of relaxing. But, some users say they feel more energetic and have clearer minds.
What benefits does HHC Have to Offer?
Lack of evidence from a scientific perspective suggests that the apparent benefits of this HHC cannabinoid are mostly only anecdotal.
An earlier study in 1977 examined HHC in rats. Researchers discovered that cannabinoids might have properties similar to opioid painkillers; however, distinct differences observes.
In 2007, the study previously mentioned was a study that tested HU211 along with HU243 in mice. It concluded that HHC increased sleep duration between 80% and 700 percent. Researchers also noted that the substance showed delta-9-THC-like effects in mice but was less potent in its pharmacological effects.
How do you choose the best brand?
On the market today, there are many HHC products. Various brands are available to customers. Do your research before buying.
Reviews of a brand can reveal its reputation. If many people have had positive experiences with a brand like iDELT∆8, it is likely safe to use.