HHC vs. THC: What’s the Difference?
- Education
- Cannabutter Digest
The cannabis plant contains over 100 different cannabinoids, which are the active compounds responsible for the plant’s psychoactive and therapeutic effects. The two we will explore in this article are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and hexahydrocannabinol (HHC).
Both of these compounds have psychoactive properties. They are also both effective treatments for various conditions. However, most people are probably more familiar with THC than HHC. What is the difference between these two cannabinoids?
What Is THC?
THC is the primary cannabinoid responsible for marijuana’s psychoactive effects. THC affects the mind and body by binding to an individual’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system is a network of receptors throughout the body that plays a role in regulating phenomena such as:
- Mood
- Appetite
- Pain
- Memory
When THC binds to ECS receptors, it can change their functions. The changes you experience give you the high you feel after using cannabis.
What Is HHC?
Hexahydrocannabinol is a “minor” cannabinoid. This term means that the cannabis plant contains lower levels of HHC than THC or CBD. Nevertheless, HHC is more potent than THC. Furthermore, while people associate CBD with relaxation, HHC is more of a stimulant. It is also more psychoactive than CBD.
Although the cannabis plant contains lower levels of HHC than THC, a process called hydrogenation can transform THC into HHC. Hydrogenation is the same process that turns vegetable oil into margarine. This change increases the binding affinity for certain endocannabinoid receptors, as well as some pain receptors. HHC’s chemical structure also makes it less susceptible to oxidation, meaning that HHC will not lose its potency as quickly as THC.
Legal Differences
The United States classifies THC as a Schedule I drug. As a result, shipping THC across state lines or bringing it onto federal property is illegal. However, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) does not have any classification for HHC. As a result, HHC is not subject to the same restrictions.
Some state laws restrict all cannabinoids, which include HHC, so you should check for any local restrictions before you decide to buy, sell, or ship HHC products.
Potency Differences
Most people describe the HHC high as comparable to that of THC but slightly stronger. Some also claim that HHC provides them with a “cleaner” high and that any next morning drowsiness that some may experience with THC are minimal or nonexistent.
Side Effects
The most commonly reported side effects of THC include:
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Increased appetite
More severe side effects for some users include:
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Drowsiness
HHC is not as well-researched as THC, but preliminary reports suggest that both the safety profile and the side effects of the two compounds are similar.
Contact Us for More Information about Home Infusion Machines
If you would like to know more about LĒVO infusion machines including how you can use LĒVO II, LĒVO C, and LĒVO Lux infusion machines to incorporate HHC into your homemade edibles, a Cannabutter Digest representative would be happy to answer your questions.
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