How HHC is Different to THC – Traditional cannabis consumption has been a part of Western culture for decades. Cannabis, associated with greater levels of creativity influencing various artistic pursuits, providing the everyday user with enhanced sensory information and levels of calm, the drug is slowly receiving increasing levels of acceptance within a society that was once so hostile towards its recreational or medicinal use.
While the Netherlands adopted a ‘tolerant policy’ towards cannabis possession and sale way back in the 1970s, many countries around the world, including the United States, Germany, Canada, and Spain, have reconsidered their legal approach towards the drug in recent years and have passed more lenient, liberal legislation surrounding its consumption.
What is HHC?
As a result of changing perceptions, recent acceptance, and passes in legislation, the cannabis market has adapted and broadened its range of hemp-derived products to suit growing clientele and curate a deeper sense of wellness among users. One of these new legal forms of cannabis is HHC. While first described in Scientific literature in the 1940s, HHC was only first identified in Europe in May 2022.
Similarly, to THC, HHC is a psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it can induce feelings of euphoria, alter perceptions, and affect the mood of the consumer. While research into HHC is still relatively limited, early signs suggest HHC produces similar therapeutic benefits to THC, possessing properties such as analgesic (pain-relieving), antiemetic (anti-nausea), and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects.
The Five Main Differences Between HHC and THC
However, while HHC and THC produce many similar effects, there are several key distinctions – here are five of the most noticeable.
- Chemical structure
THC is tetrahydrocannabinol, while HHC is hexahydrocannabinol. The difference lies in the arrangement of hydrogen atoms in their molecular structures, which may result in variations in their pharmacological effects.
- Potency
THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis and is known for its potent intoxicating effects. While HHC is also psychoactive, its potency and specific effects may differ from THC, potentially leading to variations in the intensity of the high experienced.
- Legal status
THC is classified as a controlled substance in many jurisdictions due to its psychoactive properties. HHC’s legal status may vary depending on local regulations and its specific chemical structure, as it is a lesser-known cannabinoid.
Unlike THC, you can buy HHC in the UK without running into any legal issues, provided you choose a reputable seller. HHC products that fall under the THC freehold are completely legal.
- Research and understanding
THC has been extensively studied for its pharmacological effects, therapeutic potential, and side effects, leading to a better understanding of its mechanisms of action. In contrast, research on HHC is limited, and there is less scientific knowledge available regarding its specific effects and potential applications.
- Presence in cannabis
THC is one of the most abundant cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, particularly in marijuana varieties. HHC, while less studied, may be present in smaller quantities or different strains of cannabis, potentially influencing its availability and accessibility compared to THC.
Conclusion
It is likely that HHC ignites a similar feeling to what one may experience with THC but is understood to have lower levels of potency and a milder ‘high’.
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