Is HHC legal?

Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD are frequently in the news. The former is the subject of much debate regarding its legalization in France. The latter is legal, and you can now purchase a wide range of CBD products. Recently, a new compound has appeared on the market: hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). This substance has existed since 1944, but it has only recently become available for purchase.

In the United States, as elsewhere in the world, hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is becoming increasingly popular among consumers. The problem—whether across the Atlantic or even in France—is that the legal framework surrounding HHC remains rather unclear. HHC products, which can be highly effective, are not certified by any standards and generally do not come with a certificate of analysis. That’s why, later in this article, we’ll try to shed some light on the subject to separate fact from fiction. We’ll also provide you with all the information you need to better understand what HHC is and, most importantly, whether HHC-derived products are legal or not.

HHC is a cannabinoid found in hemp. Hemp is a plant that contains more than a hundred different cannabinoids, the most well-known of which are THC, CBD, CBN, and CBG. Cannabinoids are molecules extracted from the plant, and their therapeutic properties have been proven over the past 10 years by numerous scientific studies.

Every active ingredient and every plant is different and affects the human body in different ways. Some molecules are psychoactive—that is, they cause intoxication—while others are not. 

Created in 1944 by American chemist Roger Adams, HHC is a molecule he derived from Delta-9 THC, the psychoactive component of the cannabis plant. In fact, once THC is extracted from cannabis, it undergoes a process called hydrogenation. This means that hydrogen molecules are added under very high pressure to the THC structure to stabilize it. This makes it less susceptible to degradation by air, heat, or UV rays. This step therefore converts THC into HHC. Fun fact: It’s the same process that turns vegetable oil into margarine.

This process breaks down the chemical structure of THC and replaces it with hydrogen, without affecting the cannabinoid's effects or potency. In other words, HHC is the hydrogenated form of THC.

HHC itself is a derivative of THC, so it produces similar effects. When used in large quantities, yes, HHC can produce psychoactive effects.

It has been studied more seriously and intensively only in recent years by scientists who believe they can recreate HHC, which does not produce the psychoactive effects associated with THC. The challenge lies in finding a cost-effective way to isolate the psychoactive effects while maintaining the compound’s active potency. Research is therefore moving in this direction.

But why is HHC so desirable? Certainly because of its rarity today, but beyond that, what does it offer that other active compounds in cannabis don't? What are its effects and, above all, its benefits for the human body? Here are a few answers:

As mentioned earlier, HHC is a derivative of THC. It is therefore very similar in terms of both its chemical composition and its effects.
 

Since this product is rarely consumed and has been studied very little by scientists to date, it is difficult to obtain concrete evidence regarding the effects of HHC on the human body. However, we know that HHC is a psychoactive substance, and like any psychoactive substance, it produces:

• Energy, 
• Hallucinations, 
• A feeling of euphoria, 
• An appetite stimulant, 
• A change in the perception of time and authority, 
• An increase in body temperature, 
• An increase in heart rate, 
• Mood swings.

It is necessary to consider the potential impact of HHC to truly understand how it works and what other effects it may have on consumers.

HHC is a product whose reputation is said to be based on powerful health benefits. First of all, it’s important to note that scientific studies on this topic are very rare. However, the following research shows very promising results.

A 2011 study found that certain synthetic analogs of hexahydrocannabinol potently inhibit angiogenesis induced by breast cancer cells and tumor growth.

Another Japanese study from 2007 describes HHC's impressive ability to block pain in mice. It appears, therefore, to be an even more potent analgesic than the other cannabinoids found in cannabis.

It is too early to confirm whether HHC has significant therapeutic benefits that can help with specific conditions and diseases. However, the growing number of rigorous studies on the subject is promising.

HHC can have many side effects—some confirmed, others speculative—due to a lack of information. It’s worth considering them before using it. Several are listed here. This list is not exhaustive.

• Anxiety and paranoia, 
• Dizziness, 
• Dry mouth, 
• Increased appetite, 
• Insomnia, 
• Dry, Red Eyes

Since its discovery, HHC has appeared in various forms. It is found primarily in vaping products such as e-liquids. Various HHC-based products intended for everyday use are beginning to appear on the European market. HHC resin and flowers are now becoming available. Oils remain rarer due to the high extraction costs associated with this new psychotropic compound.

When inhaled as e-liquid or in flower form using a vaporizer, the benefits will be felt most quickly. It can also be consumed as a tea and even smoked, although this is not recommended—just as with CBD.

Since HHC is similar to THC, it should be consumed in moderation. The few studies conducted to date do not provide sufficient evidence to identify any potential side effects.

This is a question many people ask themselves every day. Admittedly, it’s very difficult to give a clear and unambiguous answer. To begin with, it’s important to know that while HHC is available on the French market, it isn’t very widespread. It is neither banned nor authorized. This means it isn’t sold over the counter like CBD. In fact, the law remains uncertain about this situation. Should it be classified as a drug or not?

This is a difficult decision to make because, to date, no study has provided sufficient evidence for France to definitively classify it as a narcotic. Therefore, for the time being, people are free to consume it. It should be noted that the French government’s silence or lack of a decision does not mean that HHC poses no risk to the body. It is up to each consumer to make a decision that suits them until further notice. However, the French government is drawing the public’s attention to two important factors.

HHC is derived from the THC molecule, the production, sale, and consumption of which are completely prohibited. When ingested, it also produces a psychotropic effect on the body. Although HHC is not as potent as THC, it still alters the mind and causes hallucinations. This information alone would be sufficient to ban it. The second factor is HHC’s close resemblance to certain laboratory-created drugs available on the market, such as K2 and Spice. Given all this, it is not hard to imagine that HHC could be classified as a narcotic in the near future.

Many people rightly wonder whether HHC shows up in drug tests. This is a very legitimate question, especially given its origin on the one hand and the controversy surrounding its legality on the other. In fact, it’s important to know that most standard drug tests are designed to detect traces of alcohol and drugs in the blood. The most commonly tested substances include cocaine, cannabis, amphetamines, synthetic drugs, etc.

These tests generally have difficulty detecting certain types of drugs. This includes, in particular, those that can disappear completely from the body after a certain amount of time. There are also tests specifically designed to detect traces of THC in the blood. As a result, it is highly likely that HHC will also be detected by these tests. However, keep in mind that some countries, such as France, do not yet have tests that detect HHC. So, you have nothing to worry about.

However, you must be very careful, as some HHC products contain several types of cannabinoids, such as THC. If you use it and get tested, don’t be surprised if you test positive for THC. In fact, tests can detect it even in very small amounts. Therefore, it’s a good idea to be well-informed about the products before using them. You can also avoid using them when, for example, you plan to drive or when you’re in an environment where drug testing is common.

RAF, or Rapid Absorption Formula, is a formula created by High Society that is similar to HHC. Derived from a natural plant molecule, it provides a sense of relaxation, calm, and euphoria. It’s important to note that RAF is intended only for those familiar with THC—current or former users.

To get the most out of it, start with a small dose and then increase the amount based on the effects you feel and expect. RAF is not suitable for professional drivers or drivers working in heavy industry. It is also not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is also important to note that this cannabinoid is not included on the EU’s list of medications. It is therefore approved for sale and consumption.