Hemp-derived products have been all the rage in the cannabis community since the US Congress signed the 2018 Hemp Farming Act. The Farm Bill legalized products containing less than 0.3% of Delta-9 THC, making CBD and Delta-8 THC products fly off the shelves.
The newest kid on the block is HHC, a semi-synthetic CBD-derived compound that has yet to reach the high status of its predecessors. Still, the available studies (however few) and user experiences tell a promising story. Let’s explore the effects, potential benefits, and legality of HHC.
What is HHC?
HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) is a cannabinoid naturally occurring in the hemp plant. Like the famous CBD and Delta-8 THC, it’s a semi-synthetic cannabinoid because scientists extract and stabilize it in a lab.
They use hemp with low THC levels to extract CBD before adding two more hydrogen molecules to turn CBD or THC into HHC (which can be a CBD or THC isomer).
This hydrogenation process involves a catalyst to saturate the compound. That helps stabilize the substance, improving its resistance to heat and oxidative breakdown. That ultimately means a longer shelf life.
CBD hydrogenation paved the way for new cannabinoids like HHC-P, which, like its siblings, interacts with CB1 receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Here’s how that works.
HHC with cbd oil side effects: It’s crucial to consider potential side effects when exploring cannabinoids like HHC in combination with CBD oil. While the hydrogenation process enhances stability, it’s essential to be aware of any adverse effects that may arise from the interaction of HHC with CBD oil. Careful consideration and monitoring of potential side effects can contribute to a more informed and safer exploration of these compounds.
How does HHC affect the body?
Like other cannabinoids, HHC interacts with the body’s cannabinoid receptors. It binds to CB1 (predominantly in the central nervous system), activating it to produce effects similar to CBD and THC.
However, evidence on HHC effects is anecdotal. Few scientific studies on HHC exist, each with inconclusive findings and encouraging more research. We only know what users have reported, so take the following with a grain of salt.
Some say HHC is milder than CBD, while others put it between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, reporting slight psychoactive effects.
Likewise, some users say HHC produces adverse effects similar to Delta-9 THC, including insomnia, dry eyes and mouth, dizziness, increased heart rate, anxiety, and paranoia. However, they could have taken higher doses than others.
Still, most users agree the adverse effects are barely noticeable because HHC is significantly milder than other CBD and THC isomers.
Whichever perspective on HHC you take, you’ll likely agree with most users and researchers regarding the potential benefits. Here’s what they are.
Potential benefits of HHC
Although we don’t know the long-term effects of HHC, we can discern several possible benefits because of its interaction with CB1 receptors. Here’s what preliminary studies have found.
Pain relief
HHC could have anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting cytotoxins that produce painful sensations. Its binding to CB1 receptors in the brain could help reduce acute and chronic pain, including neuropathic.
Appetite regulation
HHC may help with appetite regulation, stimulating hunger to aid people with appetite loss. That might make it valuable for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy since it could address the associated nausea and vomiting.
Mood enhancement
Most users report feeling at ease after taking HHC, forgetting about stress or anxiety. Some say they feel more energized, although not in a euphoric sense. They say HHC soothes them and elevates their mood. That might be true, considering cannabinoid receptors’ role in regulating mood.
Sleep improvement
Sleep improvement is another potential benefit of HHC. Relieving pain, stress, and anxiety and regulating mood might play a part. Still, many users say HHC helps them fall asleep faster and have a good night’s rest. That might make it ideal for those suffering from insomnia.
Cancer cell growth inhibition
Several studies have reported that HHC might be a potential anti-cancer agent. The compound and its several analogs could inhibit cancer cell growth. More research is necessary for definitive conclusions, but similar findings exist for other cannabinoids.
Brain cell protection
Stimulating CB1 receptors in the brain leads researchers to believe that HHC might have neuroprotective properties, potentially helping prevent neurodegenerative diseases. Again, that coincides with the findings regarding CBD and THC, which reportedly improve brain health.
Is HHC legal?
According to the 2018 Farm Bill, HHC products containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC should be legal. That’s the rule for all hemp-derived products.
However, some states have explicitly banned HHC because of its semi-synthetic nature. Coming from synthetic hydrogenation in a lab makes it an unlawful substance in many regulators’ eyes.
Therefore, check HHC legality by state before buying to avoid legal trouble. Here are the US states where HHC is currently illegal:
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Mississippi
- Montana
- Nevada
- New York
- North Dakota
- Utah
- Washington
The good news is cannabis laws often change. More US states could jump on the bandwagon and legalize HHC products that comply with the regulations. However, others might ban it because many lawmakers haven’t heard of HHC yet, so stay tuned.
Conclusion
HHC could be a holistic health solution, but it’s too early to make definitive conclusions. Research is still in its infancy, although preliminary studies are promising. We recommend reading them to understand better how HHC works and what potential benefits it might bring.
Authentic user reviews across forums, blogs, and review sites are also valuable. Check them out for a first-hand look into HHC effects and possible benefits.
