HHC

HHC, scientifically known as hexahydrocannabinol, is simply a hydrogenated form of the THC naturally occurring in a variety of cannabis and hemp plants. HHC is roughly 70-80% the strength of THC, meaning it's more potent than the other hemp-derived cannabinoids Delta-8 and Delta-10.

How is HHC different from THC or delta-8?

Chemically speaking, HHC includes a hydrogen molecule that THC does not.

Consumers and scientists alike observe that HHC induces less potent and psychoactive effects than conventional delta-9 THC.

Manufacturers often equate the HHC high with a delta-8 THC high.

What are the effects of HHC on the body and mind?

There are two different kinds of HHC molecules:  9R HHC actively binds to the body’s natural endocannabinoid receptors, while 9S HHC, because of its slightly different molecular structure, doesn’t do so nearly as well.

HHC can have THC-like effects on the body and mind, but HHC is less potent, milligram-per-milligram, than delta-8 THC. Delta-8 THC is generally regarded as about half as potent as the standard delta-9 THC.

Does HHC show up on a drug test?

Some of HHC’s appeal stems from evidence suggesting that it can evade drug tests. But—and this is important— scientists acknowledge the evidence is only anecdotal.

James Stephens, vice-president of innovation at Creo, a biotech firm specializing in cannabinoids, has seen similar arguments made about HHC. “I’ve also seen it advertised that [HHC] doesn’t convert into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is a common drug test metabolite,”. “It could possibly be used to evade drug testing regimes if this proves to be true,” he added.

Word to the wise: There is no hard evidence that HHC does not show up on a drug test for marijuana. Don’t bet your job or career on anecdotal evidence.

Is HHC safe to consume?

Like any of the new hemp-derived cannabinoids, there is no standard dose and little to no research on the immediate or long-term effects of HHC ingestion.

Because hemp-derived cannabinoids (including HHC) are not subject to cannabis regulations in legal adult-use states, HHC product makers and retailers are not required to test their products for potency and purity.