Key Takeaways
- Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a psychoactive cannabinoid, similar to THC, that interacts with the brain’s receptors to create a high.
- HHC is popular in cannabis markets for vaping and edible products and is promoted as an alternative to traditional THC products.
- The legal status and long-term health effects of HHC remain unclear, making it essential to understand the risks involved.
Introduction
HHC, or Hexahydrocannabinol, is a cannabinoid that’s recently gained attention in the cannabis market. Known for being similar to THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, HHC produces a high with effects that feel much like traditional THC. But unlike CBD, which does not have psychoactive effects, HHC can alter mood and perception.
For people seeking alternatives to THC, HHC is marketed as a legal substitute. But with its rise in popularity, questions are emerging about HHC’s safety, how it works in the body, and what its long-term health impacts might be. Let’s look at HHC, how it affects the body, and the potential risks and concerns.
What is HHC, and How Is It Different from THC?
Hexahydrocannabinol, or HHC, is a cannabinoid found in small amounts within the hemp plant. While HHC is naturally present in hemp, it is usually manufactured in laboratories by chemically altering other cannabinoids, making it a synthetic cannabinoid. HHC has a structure similar to delta-8 and delta-9 THC, which are the compounds in marijuana known for creating a high.
Unlike THC, HHC is only available in trace amounts in the cannabis plant, so it is often synthesized to increase its availability. The result is a compound that delivers effects similar to THC but is slightly milder. HHC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, just as THC does, producing a high and altering perception, mood, and relaxation levels. Due to its similarities to THC, it is often used in vape cartridges, oils, and edibles.
HHC’s milder effects make it an attractive option for those looking for a less intense experience compared to THC. However, because it is not as well-studied, its effects are not fully understood, leading to questions about its safety for long-term use.
How Does HHC Affect the Body?
Like other psychoactive cannabinoids, HHC affects the brain’s endocannabinoid system by binding to CB1 receptors responsible for mood, appetite, and sleep. When HHC binds to these receptors, it stimulates dopamine release, causing feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and a change in perception. This experience is why HHC is often sought for recreational use.
However, HHC’s effects come with potential risks. Common side effects of HHC use can include dry mouth, dizziness, anxiety, and increased heart rate. Because HHC is similar to THC, it may also cause anxiety in some users, especially at higher doses. HHC’s effects on sleep and appetite are also similar to those of THC, often resulting in drowsiness or increased appetite (the “munchies”).
While these short-term effects may seem mild, the long-term health effects of HHC use remain unclear. With limited research available, scientists and health professionals caution users about relying too heavily on HHC, as its impact on mental and physical health over time is not yet known.
Legal Status and Market Popularity of HHC
The 2018 Farm Bill changed the cannabis market by legalizing hemp-derived cannabinoids with less than 0.3% THC content. Since HHC can be synthesized from hemp, it technically falls under this bill’s definition, making it legal in some regions. However, because HHC is chemically altered and not naturally abundant in cannabis, its legal status is still somewhat unclear.
As of now, HHC products are widely available in states where hemp is legal, and it is frequently sold in vape pens, edible products, and oils. It is marketed as a legal alternative to THC, making it popular among consumers who want a psychoactive effect without legal restrictions. However, because HHC has psychoactive properties similar to THC, there is a possibility that future regulations may restrict its availability. For now, HHC occupies a gray area in the legal market, leading some to question whether it is worth the risk.
Should Users Be Cautious with HHC?
Although HHC is legal in some areas and available in various forms, users should be cautious when considering it for recreational or medicinal use. Because long-term studies on HHC are limited, its full health impact is unknown. Like other synthetic cannabinoids, HHC may have risks that are not immediately obvious. Its similarity to THC means it may have an addictive potential, especially when used frequently.
HHC may also complicate drug testing. Since HHC is structurally similar to THC, it may or may not show up on drug tests. This uncertainty can concern people who regularly test for work or other reasons. Users should also be aware of potential side effects, including anxiety, increased heart rate, and mood swings. For those with a history of substance abuse, it’s best to consult a professional before trying HHC or similar cannabinoids.
Seeking guidance from medical professionals can be essential for anyone considering HHC, particularly for individuals with mental health concerns or a substance use history. Until more research is conducted on HHC, users should exercise caution and know the risks involved.
Conclusion
HHC, or Hexahydrocannabinol, is a relatively new and lesser-known cannabinoid with effects similar to THC. Though it is legal in some areas and marketed as a “legal THC,” there are still many unknowns regarding its safety, long-term health effects, and legality. Because HHC is psychoactive, its use can impact mental health and physical well-being, and its potential to show up on drug tests raises concerns for some users.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use related to cannabis products, call Virtue Recovery Killeen at 866-843-0545 for help and guidance. Our team provides support for those navigating substance use and looking to regain control of their health and well-being.
FAQs About HHC
What is HHC, and how is it different from THC?
HHC, or Hexahydrocannabinol, is a psychoactive cannabinoid similar to THC but is typically derived synthetically from hemp. It has milder effects but still produces a high.
Is HHC safe to use?
The safety of HHC isn’t fully understood. Potential side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, and increased heart rate, so users should approach it cautiously.
Will HHC show up on a drug test?
HHC may or may not show up on a drug test, as it is chemically similar to THC but not identical, which could vary depending on the test.
Is HHC legal in the United States?
HHC’s legal status is unclear. It is derived from hemp and falls under the 2018 Farm Bill in some regions, but it may be subject to further regulation.
What products contain HHC?
HHC can be found in edibles, vape cartridges, and oils, often marketed as a legal alternative to THC products.
Is buying HHC products safe?
Buying HHC products can be risky, as their safety and quality are not well-regulated. Since HHC is a newer compound, it lacks the extensive testing and oversight applied to more established cannabinoids, so it’s crucial to buy from reputable sources that provide lab testing to ensure purity and safety.
What’s the difference between HHC and THC?
HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are both cannabinoids, but HHC is a hydrogenated form of THC and is typically less potent. While THC is well-known for its psychoactive effects, HHC produces a milder high and is still being studied for its full effects and benefits.
What are the effects of HHC high on the mind?
An HHC high tends to be less intense than THC, often producing mild euphoria, relaxation, and slight mental fog. Users report a more subdued experience with less anxiety and paranoia than high-THC products, though individual responses may vary.
Resources
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357519/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10510108/
https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/what-is-hhc
- About the Author
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Gigi Price holds licenses as a Master Social Worker and Clinical Drug Counselor. She completed her master’s degree in Social Work at Texas State University. Over the last decade, Gigi has been dedicated to utilizing evidence-based practices to enhance patient care and treatment planning, resulting in positive, long-term outcomes for patients and their families. Her passion lies in creating a treatment environment where professionals collaborate to bring about positive change and provide a safe, trustworthy therapeutic experience. Patients can be confident in receiving top-quality care under her leadership.
In her role as the Clinical Director of Virtue Recovery Houston, Gigi conducted research to identify the most effective approaches for treating patients with acute mental health diagnoses, PTSD, and Substance Use Disorder. She then assembled a team of skilled clinicians who could offer various therapeutic modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
(DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Exposure, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Gigi takes pride in overseeing the development and implementation of Virtue Houston’s Treatment Program, which includes two specialized therapeutic curricula tailored to the unique needs of individuals struggling with mental health issues, addiction, and PTSD.
