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HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol) Explained & How to Shop HHC Products

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With the rise of cannabinoids and their benefits, researchers have been looking for new cannabinoids to put on the market. As cannabis has become more widely available, studies have been able to learn more about the amazing hemp plant. One cannabinoid that has been discovered is HHC. HHC, or Hexahydrocannabinol, is one of many historically unsung cannabinoids on a meteoric rise. 

Over the last few years, CBD, CBG, Delta 8, and Delta 10 experienced a whirlwind rise in popularity, finding their way into millions of homes across America. Cannabis products can now be purchased in stores and even online in many states around the country. Now, HHC is poised to become the next cannabinoid that captures the attention of cannabis plant connoisseurs around the globe. However, concerns regarding the safety, federally legal, and cultivation process of HHC make this particular cannabinoid worth digging into before adding it to your daily routine.  

But, what is HHC? How does it work? Is HHC legal, and is it safe?

We’ll answer all those questions and more in this hexahydrocannabinol breakdown.

What is HHC Cannabinoid (Hexahydrocannabinol)?

Though HHC naturally occurs in very low concentrations in hemp plants (within the seeds, pollen, and stalks) in order to create HHC molecules at scale scientists have had to learn to convert the cannabinoid from CBD. That said, HHC was first synthesized in 1944 by Roger Adams, an organic chemist who became the first to isolate and identify the ultra-popular CBD compound on its own.

Adams created HHC using a chemical process called hydrogenation. Hydrogenation is the process of adding hydrogen molecules to alter the chemical structure and effects of a compound. 

While it may sound impressive, hydrogenation is extremely common. In fact, you’ve likely already enjoyed a few products made possible by hydrogenation, like margarine, frozen pizzas, and baked goods like cookies and cakes.

In this particular case of hydrogenation, Adams added two hydrogen molecules to Delta 9 THC oil to create hexahydrocannabinol. 

This new cannabinoid was found to possess absolutely zero THC yet retained a host of benefits commonly associated with cannabis-based compounds, making it an exciting discovery at the time.

How is HHC Made?

HHC production has evolved dramatically since 1944. Now, high-quality HHC vendors begin cultivating HHC in a manner that may surprise you: growing high-quality CBD flower. 

Because HHC is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid, the creation process requires a hand from both nature and science. HHC vendors cultivate high-quality CBD flower then extracted from the hemp plant, distill, and powder the popular compound before processing it into pure HHC. 

Additionally, the complete processing technique typically involves unique methods that HHC vendors are wary of discussing due to fierce competition. However, we can say that HHC should only be created in professional laboratories that are properly equipped to handle the chemical byproducts and potential dangers that may arise during production (in the case of HHC, these potential dangers include massive chemical explosions!)

And while HHC is an extremely safe compound when created by skilled professionals under strict laboratory conditions, home-made and black market HHC can pose significant health and safety risks to users. 

That’s why it is crucial that individuals interested in HHC only purchase from a trusted retailer or vendor. These companies, like the San Diego-based VIIA Hemp, use professional chemists and third-party labs to test the safety, efficacy, and quality of every product before it ships to customers. 

Is HHC Legal?

With the rise of the cannabis industry, hemp products are starting to become more widely available medically and socially. The 2018 Farm Bill made hemp and all of the plant derivatives federally legal, which has been a game changer for the industry. In order for hemp products to be sold under the rules of the 2018 Farm Bill, all hemp products must contain less than 0.3% of Delta 9 THC. However, HHC is technically not THC. This raises the question, is HHC legal?

HHC is found in the cannabis plant, however the cannabinoid is produced in a lab through hydrogenating. Hydrogenating is adding hydrogen to a cannabis compound. Since HHC is technically not THC, as of 2022 HHC is federally legal. 

HHC vs. THC

Before we start with the difference between HHC and THC, let’s dive into what is THC? THC is a major cannabinoid found in larger concentrations in the cannabis plant. THC is the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana varieties of cannabis plants that create intoxicating effects. Cannabinoid chemicals are actually made naturally in the body, meaning our bodies are very receptive to cannabinoids such as THC. When THC is consumed, it interacts with our brain receptors and in turn dopamine is released. THC also interferes with how information is processed in the part of the brain responsible for forming new memories.

HHC is a minor cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant and a cousin of THC. Similar to THC, HHC is made through chemical processes from CBD. What makes HHC unique from Delta 8 and Delta 9 is that it is not referred to as THC, which gives HHC a leg up legally. While HHC is different than THC, the cannabinoid does create similar effects that THC does. Users of HHC and THC have reported very similar effects between the two. Both HHC and THC have similar structures and levels of potency.

While these two cannabinoids are very similar, there are a few differences that set them apart. HHC is very expensive to extract since it is found in such low concentrations in CBD. Another difference would be HHC and THC do not have the same plant derivations. 

If you want to learn more about the difference between HHC and THC, check out VIIA’s blog – What’s the Difference Between HHC and THC?

Will HHC show up on a drug test?

Since HHC is different from THC, it raises the question as to whether or not the HHC cannabinoid will show up positive on a marijuana drug test. Since HHC is still a new discovery, it is hard to say for certain whether HHC will show up on a drug test. While most marijuana drug tests are only looking for THC, more research is needed to determine a definitive answer. 

Is the HHC Cannabinoid Safe?

Despite being created in 1944, there have been little to no long-term clinical studies regarding the safety of HHC. That said, research has indicated that cannabinoids as a class are generally safe for human consumption and may be helpful in the fight against issues like chronic and acute pain, nausea, epilepsy, obesity, wasting disease, addiction, autoimmune disorders, and other conditions. 

Additionally, HHC has been enjoyed by thousands of people around the globe and has received countless glowing recommendations and reviews that praise the benefits of this rare cannabinoid. 

However, until cannabis industry and cannabinoids gain full FDA approval and regulation, it is vital that individuals only source their cannabis-derived products from reputable sources. But how can you separate the reputable sources from the less upstanding?

A simple way to start is by examining the laboratory testing practices and standards of the companies that draw your interest. 

The best HHC vendors are committed to the health and safety of their customers and have stepped up to fill the gap left by the government to ensure the safest and highest quality of products possible.

VIIA Hemp partners with KCA Labs in Kentucky, a very reputable laboratory –– and in fact the only facility in the country that can process HHC. Consequently, its products are held to the highest standards possible and leading the charge in terms of what HHC products may come to be.

What Are the Effects of HHC? 

Users of HHC have reported the effects to be very similar to its cannabinoid relative, THC. Like most cannabinoids, HHC cannabinoid effects can involve both the mind and body. While noticeable effects vary from individual to individual (especially with non-psychoactive hemp derived cannabinoid), the recent boom in HHC popularity and widespread use has begun to establish an unofficial record of HHC effects. Below, we’ve broken down a list of the most popular HHC effects by mind and body.

What Are the Effects of HHC on Your Body?

High-quality HHC products, like Mojito HHC carts by VIIA, have been reported to provide smooth, relaxing physical experiences, as well as potential relief from aches and pains. A verified purchaser of VIIA’s HHC carts shared this about their experience:

“This is phenomenal. I’ve never heard of HHC but I had to try it. Always looking for pain relief. This sure does take you away from the pain. Makes my mind change, but everyone is different…This works well.”

What Are the Effects of HHC on Your Mind?

HHC has also been celebrated for the uplifting cerebral effect many individuals experience during use. Despite containing zero THC, many users report the effects of HHC are similar to an enhanced Delta-8 THC experience. 

This makes HHC perfect for taking the edge off a long day or stealing a quiet moment of mental relaxation between tasks.

What to Look For in HHC Cannabinoid Products

With more options than ever before, it can be challenging to identify the ideal HHC product for you. Whether you’re looking for discreet use or convenient HHC on the go, there are a variety of high-quality hemp products (like HHC gummies, HHC oil or HHC flower) to explore for your next cannabinoid adventure.

For example, the popularity of using HHC to custom tailor experiences with other cannabinoids, like CBD, and hemp derived THC, has led many HHC vendors to create proprietary blends to boost the effects of HHC. 

These blends typically contain a heavy concentration of HHC, with varying amounts of CBD, CBG, and CBC included for enhanced effects and experiences. Some companies also add tasty terpenes to the mix, boosting the aroma and flavor profile of HHC products to new highs. 

HHC carts are the most consistently popular of all HHC products because they pack a smooth, powerful punch in an ultra-portable, low-key package. Moreover, HHC carts allow individuals to rapidly fine-tune their cannabis experiences with ease and enjoy the effects with minimal waiting time.

When searching for the perfect HHC cannabinoid product, it is important to shop from brands that only use the cleanest and highest quality ingredients in their products. At VIIA, all HHC vaporizer products are pure and uncut, meaning there are not any unnecessary added chemicals or contaminants. In addition, all of VIIA Hemp Company’s products go through vigorous lab testing through every step of the production process. From seed to finish, all VIIA HHC products are formulated to ensure quality, potency, and free of contaminants. Brands that also provide their lab analysis of their products are also great to look for. By looking at a lab analysis of a product, you can be absolutely sure of what ingredients and chemicals are in the product. While some companies may use fillers or cutting agents, VIIA is dedicated to producing cannabis products that contain organic and clean ingredients 

Can I Mix HHC Cannabinoid Products with CBD or CBN Products?

This is a question that ultimately boils down to personal preference. HHC cannabinoid products are fantastic for enhancing or potentiating the effects of CBD and CBN products, but that doesn’t mean you must mix them. 

Like all things, the importance of mixing HHC with hemp derived CBD or CBN depends on the individual’s goals when using the products. 

While many customers have found that including HHC in their cannabinoid routine provides a much-needed boost to potency, others still enjoy the solo experience offered by all three compounds, including the HHC cannabinoid.

It’s also important to remember that individuals can purchase mixed HHC cannabinoid products directly from trustworthy vendors. For example, the Tropic Thunder HHC Vape combines premium HHC with hemp derived cannabinoids extracted from the infamous Tropic Thunder cannabis strain.

That said, the best method to guarantee a safe experience is always to be sure to consult a medical professional before using or mixing any cannabinoid products. 

Shop HHC Now

FAQ

HHC occurs naturally at very low concentrations in cannabis plants, but in order to create HHC on a large scale, scientists had to learn how to convert the cannabinoid from CBD. This new cannabinoid has absolutely zero THC but retains many of the benefits associated with cannabis-based compounds.

Since HHC is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid, the creation process requires the involvement of both nature and science. HHC suppliers grow a high-quality CBD flower, then extract, distill and grind before processing it into pure HHC. The complete processing method usually includes unique methods.

Research has shown that cannabinoids are generally safe for human consumption and may be helpful in combating problems such as chronic ache, nausea, obesity, exhaustion, and other conditions. HHC is enjoyed by thousands of people around the world.

HHC cannabinoid products are great for boosting or boosting the effects of CBD and CBN products, but that doesn’t mean you should mix them. But the best way to ensure a safe experience is to always be sure to check with your doctor before using or mixing any cannabinoid products.

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