Understanding HHC vs. THC

Do you know the difference between HHC and THC? If not, don't worry. Many cannabis users don't know the difference between these two cannabinoids, even though they both come from marijuana or hemp plants. And since they both affect the body differently, finding the right one to suit your needs can be a confusing process.

Let's discuss the differences between HHC and THC so you can decide which one is right for you.

Key Takeaways:

• HHC is a great alternative to THC if you want to experience other cannabinoids in a soothing and gentle way.

• HHC is legal in many places, like other hemp-derived cannabinoids.

• THC and HHC offer a wide range of potential therapeutic benefits that may provide an alternative to prescription medications.

What Are Cannabis Plant Cannabinoids?

Before we dive into the differences between HHC vs. THC, let's first discuss what cannabinoids are.

Cannabinoids are compounds of chemical secreted by cannabis that provide potential therapeutic relief to an array of symptoms, including nausea, pain, inflammation, and anxiety. There are over 100 distinct cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, and each one offers its own set of benefits.

The two most known cannabinoids are CBD and THC. However, other cannabinoids like HHC have gained more attention in recent years due to their potential benefits. Plus, since the hemp plant is no longer federally banned in the United States, cannabinoids like HHC are more accessible than ever.

How THC and HHC Interact with Our Bodies

Cannabinoids intermingle with our bodies in various ways, but the primary way they do so is by binding to receptors in the endocannabinoid system.

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a network of endocannabinoid receptors and enzymes spread throughout the body. Its primary function is maintaining homeostasis, or balance, in the body.

There are two primary cannabinoid receptors in the ECS, CB₁, and CB₂. CB₁ receptors are primarily in the brain and central nervous system (CNS). CB₂ receptors are found throughout the immune system. These receptors play a role in helping our bodies control inflammation and pain relief, as well as other immune system responses.

HHC and THC cannabinoids bind to CB₁ and CB₂ cannabinoid receptors, but they do so in different ways and affect various parts of the body.

What Is HHC?

Hexahydrocannabinol, abbreviated as HHC, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, like THC. It was created in 1944 by Roger Adams after he added hydrogen atoms to delta 9 THC and changed its chemical structure. This process, also known as hydrogenation, creates HHC molecules and is also how butter is made using vegetable oil.

Since Roger Adams originally discovered and created HHC molecules by converting THC, this hydrogenated form has been used in many ways. However, it's most commonly used as an alternative to THC because it offers a delicate and euphoric effect.

What Are the Effects of HHC?

HHC's chemical structure is similar to THC, which is why it offers many of the same potential therapeutic benefits. However, HHC is not as intoxicating as the THC molecule, and it produces more mild effects since THC binds to our cannabinoid receptors differently. Because of this, some people report that the HHC high is more blissful.

Many people use HHC gummies and other products at nighttime because they can offer relaxation and cerebral, calming effects. Anecdotal evidence also suggests it works well as a sleep aid.

HHC is an excellent alternative to THC for people who want to avoid the strong psychoactive effects of THC but still enjoy the potential benefits of cannabinoids.

Potential Therapeutic Benefits of HHC 

Besides producing milder effects than THC, HHC has become a fan favorite for a myriad of reasons. Anecdotal evidence suggests that HHC may provide potential relief from a variety of symptoms, including: 

• Sleep issues

• Chronic pain

• Inflammation

HHC is known for its ability to provide relaxation and anxiety relief. In addition, hydrogenated cannabinoids like HHC produced tumor-shrinking abilities in preliminary animal studies.

HHC vs. Hemp-derived CBD

HHC is also a great alternative to CBD for people who want to try something that provides mood-boosting and soothing effects. And since CBD is not intoxicating, it doesn't deliver the same euphoric feeling as HHC.

CBD research is much more advanced than HHC research because scientists have studied CBD for much longer. However, the potential therapeutic benefits of HHC are promising and warrant further investigation.

Does HHC Have Any Side Effects?

Although HHC is generally considered safe, like any substance, it's possible to experience side effects when taking it.

The most common side effects of HHC include:

• Dry mouth

• Elevated heart rate

• Increased appetite

• Dizziness

• Dry and red eyes 

It's also possible to experience severe side effects from taking HHC, like anxiety and paranoia, although these are rare. You can typically avoid more severe side effects by regulating your dose. If you're new to HHC, start with small quantities before moving up to high potency HHC.

Is HHC Safe to Consume?

HHC is considered safe to consume, but you should always exercise caution, especially if you have a preexisting medical condition. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or on any medications, speak with your doctor before taking HHC.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't regulate HHC, so it's important to find a trusted source of HHC before purchasing it.

Always look for HHC that's been third-party lab tested to confirm it's of high quality. You don't want a product that's not pure and potentially harmful.

Additionally, psychoactive cannabinoids interact with our bodies in a way that can make driving and operating machinery dangerous. So if you plan on consuming HHC, make sure to do so in a safe environment and avoid putting others or yourself at risk.

Is HHC Legal?

HHC is legal in many places where THC products are not since it doesn't come from the marijuana plant. Currently, HHC is federally legal in the United States, but individual states may have their own laws regarding cannabinoids.

Before purchasing or consuming HHC products, check your local laws to ensure you're not breaking any regulations. Cannabis legislation is constantly changing, so it's crucial to stay up-to-date on the latest laws in your area regarding hemp-derived cannabinoids.

Does HHC Show up on Drug Tests?

Although HHC is THC with added hydrogen atoms, it's still structurally similar to THC. Therefore, HHC can show up on a drug test.

Most drug tests cannot differentiate between an HHC or delta 9 THC molecule, so if you consume HHC products, you may fail a drug test.

If you're taking HHC and are worried about it showing up on a drug test, avoid consuming HHC.

How Do You Shop for HHC Products? 

When shopping for HHC products, look for products that have been third-party lab tested. This safeguards that the product is pure and of high quality.

You also want to confirm the product doesn't contain harmful additives or contaminants. Products should be manufactured by a biotech firm specializing in cannabinoid products. As mentioned before, the FDA doesn't currently regulate hemp-derived cannabinoid products, so it's up to you to research and find a trusted source of HHC.

When looking for HHC products, also keep in mind that the market is currently saturated with low-quality products. If a product seems inexpensive or too good to be true, it may have toxic byproducts.

Always read reviews before purchasing any cannabinoid product to get an idea of what others have experienced. 

Types of HHC Products

Many HHC products are available, including tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals, and more.

HHC vapes can produce noticeable effects within minutes, while other products like HHC edibles may take an hour or two to kick in. The impact of HHC also varies depending on the product you use. For example, vaping HHC will produce different results than consuming it orally.

Find an HHC product meeting all your preferences to get the most out of your HHC experience. If you're unsure where to start, consider talking to a cannabis doctor or budtender for guidance.

What Is THC?

THC is the primary cannabinoid that occurs naturally in cannabis plants. It's the cannabinoid associated with the "high" psychoactive effects of cannabis, such as feelings of euphoria and relaxation. There are a few different types of THC, but the most common are delta 8 and delta 9 THC.

Delta 9 THC is an intoxicating cannabinoid and is the type found in marijuana plants. It's prevalent throughout the cannabis industry and is the type of THC most people are familiar with.

Delta 8 is a hemp-derived THC similar to delta 9 THC, but it's not as psychoactive. This type of THC exists in trace amounts in cannabis plants. It's created using an isomerization process that converts CBD or delta 9 into delta 8 THC. 

Delta 8 THC is becoming increasingly popular because it provides many of the benefits of THC without being as powerful. It's also federally legal in the U.S., so it can be purchased and consumed in many states where marijuana plants and consumption are still illegal. This makes it a great legal alternative for those still looking to enjoy the benefits of the THC molecule.

What Are the Effects of THC? 

Since THC makes you "high," it impacts users in various ways, including: 

• Altered perception

• Changes in mood

• Increased appetite

• Impaired coordination and balance

THC is also known for its medicinal properties and may help relieve pain, nausea, and sleeplessness. In addition, since it offers both cerebral and body effects, it's a popular choice for those looking to boost their creativity or increase their energy.

Does THC Have Any Side Effects?

Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC may increase your heart rate and appetite. In some cases, consuming these cannabinoids can also lead to anxiety or paranoia.

Common side effects include:

• Red eyes

• Dry mouth

• Increased heart rate

• Dizziness

• Paranoia

Certain medications can also affect how THC affects you, so it's important to talk to your doctor before using any THC products. 

THC in Different Strains

With so many different cannabis strains available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. THC levels in each strain can vary significantly, so do your research or ask for a recommendation before trying a new one.

Additionally, different people prefer different strains. For example, some people like indica strains because they offer more relaxing effects, while others prefer sativa strains for their uplifting and energizing effects.

Hybrid strains offer a combination of both indica and sativa effects, so they can be a good option for those who want the best of both worlds.

It's important to note that even if one strain has higher THC levels than another, that doesn't necessarily mean it will be more potent. The effects of each strain can vary depending on the person, so try different ones to see what works best for you.

Delta 8 THC vs. Delta 9 THC 

The biggest difference between delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC is their potency and legal status.

As mentioned before, delta 9 THC is not legal in many states because it's the type of THC found in marijuana plants. Delta 8 THC, on the other hand, comes from the hemp plant and is federally legal but is banned in some states. 

Generally speaking, delta 9 will provide more potent psychoactive effects than delta 8 THC. This is because delta 9 THC has a higher affinity for the body's endocannabinoid receptors.

However, although delta 8 typically has much milder effects than delta 9, how your body responds will depend on how much you consume. For example, if you consume twice as much delta 8, you may not feel twice as high, but you will likely feel more effects than if you only ingest half as much delta 9 THC.

Plus, since delta 8 undergoes a manufacturing process, its potency and effects can vary.

Does Delta 8 Show up on a Drug Test?

To put it simply, yes. Although delta 8 is a great alternative for those wanting the benefits of THC without the robust psychoactive effects of delta 9, it can still show up on a drug test.

Drug tests cannot tell the difference between types of THC, and even though delta 8 is federally legal, it's still possible to test positive if you consume delta 8. So if you're trying to avoid testing positive and evade drug testing regimes, avoid using delta 8 and delta 9.

Is THC Safe to Consume?

Both delta 8 and delta 9 are safe for most people when consumed in moderation. Some people may experience side effects like anxiety or paranoia, but these go away once the THC wears off.

Everyone responds to THC differently, so starting with a low dose is always best. This will help you prevent adverse side effects and find the perfect amount. 

If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, it's best to avoid delta 8 and delta 9 THC altogether. Additionally, those with mental health conditions or a history of substance abuse should use caution when consuming most cannabinoids. 

How Do You Shop for THC Products? 

Not all THC products are created equal. When shopping for THC products, always search for high-quality products from reputable sources.

There are a few things to consider when shopping for THC, HHC, and products with other related cannabinoids.

• Check the THC levels: The THC levels in each product can vary significantly, so check the levels before making a purchase.

• Read the reviews: Checking online comments and reviews is a helpful way to see what other people have experienced with a particular product.

• Research the source: Is the seller willing to answer your questions and provide information about their products? Are they transparent about their source and manufacturing process? If not, it's best to look for another seller.

• The type of THC: Besides delta 8 and delta 9, there are many other types of THC, such as delta 10 THC-O, THCA, THC, and THCV. Each of these products can have different effects, so know which one you're looking for before making a purchase.

• The price: Generally, higher-quality products will cost more than lower-quality ones. However, there is a wide range of prices for these products, so find something that fits your budget.

Types of THC or HHC Products

Now that you know more about THC, let's look at some of the different types of THC and HHC products that are available.

Flower

Flower is the traditional form of cannabis and is what most people think of when they think of marijuana. You can smoke, vaporize, or use flower to make edibles.

Concentrates

Concentrates are a powerful form of cannabis made by extracting the THC from cannabis sativa plant matter. These products typically have a much higher THC content and should be used if you want to separate high potency HHC from products with a lower cannabinoid content.

Vapes

Vapes are a popular way to consume conventional cannabis-derived THC. They offer a convenient and discreet way to enjoy cannabis without the smell or smoke associated with flower. Plus, HHC disposable vapes and vape cartridges provide an easy and mess-free way to consume cannabinoids.

Oils and tinctures

Oils and tinctures are made by extracting cannabinoids from cannabis plants and then suspending them in an oil, such as MCT oil or hemp seed oil. You can take them sublingually, orally, or add them to food and beverages. 

Edibles

Edibles are THC or HHC-infused foods and drinks. They can be store-bought or homemade, offering a convenient and discreet way to consume HHC and delta 8 THC. Plus, products like HHC gummies or THC gummies are widely available in different flavors and dosages. For those with a sweet tooth, sour belt edibles are a popular choice, offering a tangy twist to the traditional HHC or delta 8 THC experience.

Topicals

Topicals are infused creams, lotions, and oils you can apply to the skin. These products offer the localized benefits of THC without any psychoactive effects.

Final Thoughts: HHC vs. THC

HHC and THC are two cannabinoids that come from the cannabis plant, and you can use them for various therapeutic purposes. HHC is a great alternative to CBD and THC because it offers a tranquil and euphoric effect for some.

As a hemp-derived cannabinoid, it's legal in many places where THC is not. For some, it provides relaxation and helps alleviate anxiety. And like THC, it also helps many people manage chronic pain and other medical conditions.

The psychoactive effects of THC are typically stronger than HHC, so start with a small dose if you're new to THC.

Here at Burning Daily, we're proud to present our vast selection of hemp-derived HHC and delta 8 offerings, including our highly sought-after Medusa THC vape. Alongside this, we have HHC gummies and other delta 8 products. So if you're looking for high-quality cannabinoid products at a great price, shop our store today!