HHC and THC: What Are the Differences?

Since hemp has been legalized in France, new hemp-derived products have found their place in the legal market. Among a growing range of cannabinoids that offer a spectrum of effects and benefits similar to those traditionally associated with THC, HHC brings new properties to the table.

HHC is indeed making waves in the cannabis world, particularly in North America, where HHC vape cartridges and flowers are flooding the shelves of dispensaries and being sold as a legal alternative to THC. HHC is a hydrogenated version of THC in which the double bond is broken and replaced by hydrogen. This increases its stability and likely its bioavailability as well. HHC is believed to produce the same effects as THC, but further research is needed to better understand its effects.

As the market continues to be flooded with new cannabinoids, it's not easy to stay up to date on their various effects and the legality of each one.

Cannabis is composed of several different molecules, some of which are better known to consumers and the scientific community than others. This is particularly true of CBD and THC, whose properties are being studied more and more to better understand their effects on the body.

Nevertheless, certain molecules, such as HHC, are still somewhat mysterious and rarely studied by scientists. However, this substance is believed to have properties similar to those of THC.

HHC is a cannabinoid, a cannabis compound that occurs naturally in hemp. It is found in very small amounts in male plants and seeds. It’s important to note that it takes a large amount of biomass to produce even a very small amount of HHC.

This cannabinoid was discovered in 1944 by Robert Adams, an American chemist. However, since its discovery, very little research has been conducted on it, and the scientific community has prioritized the study of THC and CBD.

HHC occurs naturally in cannabis plants, but only in very small amounts. To obtain sufficient amounts of HHC, it must therefore be synthesized in a laboratory. For this reason, HHC can be considered both a natural and a semi-synthetic cannabinoid.

HHC is produced through hydrogenation. CBD and THC are first extracted from hemp plants, then distilled and isolated. The powdered substance is a base, which is then chemically infused with hydrogen atoms, breaking the double bond and replacing it with two hydrogen atoms. It is then exposed to a catalyst such as nickel or zinc, which helps convert the cannabinoid into HHC.

The entire hydrogenation process takes place in a chemical reactor. The result is a dark golden oil called HHC. This oil is then refined and distilled, transforming it into a usable product.

HHC currently falls into a legal gray area. This means that, at present, there is no law prohibiting the sale of HHC in France. Furthermore, anything that is not prohibited may be legal. However, unlike CBD, HHC is not explicitly authorized.

There is still too little research on HHC. This makes it difficult to form an opinion on how HHC works. However, since HHC is a synthetic THC molecule, we can infer that it might have similar effects. In fact, HHC has a composition very similar to THC and thus acts on the same endocannabinoid receptors. Nevertheless, nothing is certain at this point. Further study of this molecule’s effects is needed before any scientific conclusions can be drawn.

While the effects of HHC are similar to those of THC, they include:

• the analgesic effect;
• appetite stimulation;
• mood swings;
• a change in the perception of time.

HHC is currently known to come in two types: HHC 9R and HHC 9S. The former is believed to have an effect on the endocannabinoid system, while the latter is believed to have no effect at all.

Keep in mind that the typical side effects of THC—such as rapid heartbeat, anxiety, paranoia, and panic attacks—do not occur with HHC.

In addition, HHC may have other side effects depending on your body and how you consume it. Vaporizing HHC can cause red eyes, a dry mouth, increased appetite, or severe drowsiness. It is therefore strongly discouraged to consume HHC if you need to drive, work, or fulfill various responsibilities. HHC should really be consumed during a time of pure rest and relaxation.

These side effects vary from person to person, because we must remember that everyone reacts to cannabinoids differently depending on their sensitivity.

It has been claimed that HHC may not show up on a drug test. However, it is important to note that the findings are not yet definitive. For now, anyone who is scheduled to take a drug test is advised not to use HHC products.

Everything our body consumes is processed by the liver and converted into a metabolite. Screening tests detect the metabolites produced by certain substances. The metabolite that indicates THC intake is 11-hydroxy-THC. It can be detected with all known variants of Delta. However, the theory is that HHC does not convert to 11-hydroxy-THC and would therefore, hypothetically, not be detected by a drug screening test.

Research on HHC is still in its early stages, and it has not yet been confirmed whether HHC will show up on a drug test. Drug testing is already becoming more widespread, and research will certainly continue, so perhaps soon we will have a better understanding of HHC and the effects it may have.

The first difference between CBD and HHC lies in their natural levels in cannabis. CBD is a molecule found in sufficient quantities in the hemp plant. This makes it possible to extract it to manufacture products such as sublingual oil or to use it in products such as flowers. As we saw earlier, HHC occurs in too small a quantity and must be synthesized in a laboratory.

CBD is not considered a psychotropic substance, nor is HHC at this time. In fact, this substance, which is still relatively new on the market, has not yet been classified by the government as either psychotropic or non-psychotropic.

Although HHC has been found in cannabis, its levels are naturally very low. It is therefore most often synthesized in a laboratory from THC. In many ways, HHC and THC are similar, but there are a few notable differences that set them apart.

First, HHC and THC have different chemical structures. Since HHC is produced through hydrogenation, it contains two additional hydrogen atoms; furthermore, THC lacks carbon-ester bonds. These minor differences make HHC a much more stable compound than THC, giving it a longer shelf life. In fact, THC naturally and rapidly breaks down into CBN when exposed to heat and light.

Another major difference between HHC and THC is that, while THC is primarily derived from recreational or medical cannabis, most of the HHC currently on the market is derived from hemp. This allows manufacturers and retailers to circumvent some of the laws governing the legality of THC.

Unfortunately, there is little information available on how HHC works in the body. Given its psychoactive effect and its THC-like chemical structure, it can be assumed that it likely binds to the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. However, further research is needed to confirm the exact mechanism of action of HHC.

Given its potential psychotropic effects and the few studies conducted on it, HHC is intended for an informed audience. It is also not recommended for consumers who are familiar with CBD and are looking for a similar product, as HHC is still quite different.

If you're trying to quit cannabis and using CBD hasn't helped you stop smoking, HHC might be a good option for you.

If you suffer from chronic, debilitating pain and, once again, natural CBD relief offers no benefit, using HHC may be a good alternative.

Although much remains unknown, we hope that as we learn more about HHC, cannabinoid-based products will become increasingly accessible. For now, all we can do is follow developments in this matter. Finally, we emphasize that HHC should be used with caution and only by an informed audience.

HighSocietyhas developed a formula based on a molecule that occurs naturally in the hemp plant. 

RAF, or Rapid Absorption Formula, is a unique formula whoseeffects are similar to those of HHC. More potent and intense than CBD, RAF is a hidden gem intended for connoisseurs (experienced users and THC users). 

Therefore, it’s a good idea to follow a few recommendations before enjoying a relaxing, soothing, and exhilarating experience. 

Take a quiet moment to get the most out of this experience. Start with a small amount, then adjust based on how you feel.

It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Minors are not permitted. 

Not suitable for professional drivers or drivers working in heavy industry.

This molecule is 100% legal in France and Europe.

You can now enjoy the unique RAF experience with our RAF flowers and resins.