Description
HHC stands for hexahydrocannabinol, which is a hydrogenated form of THC. It’s obtained in a similar process that margarine manufacturers use to harden vegetable oils using a process known as hydrogenation, or adding hydrogen atoms to the chemical structure to make it stable. HHC is found naturally in hemp but only in trace amounts. To extract a usable concentration, a complex process is performed to add hydrogen atoms to THC by using a catalyst like nickel or palladium and high pressure.
This causes the breakdown of THC’s double bond chemical structure, replacing it with hydrogen while preserving the cannabinoid’s potency and effects. Scientists have discovered at least ten isomers of this hydrogenated form of THC to date. This slight alteration enhances THC’s binding affinity for both cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), as well as the TRP pain receptors.
How Does HHC Compare to THC?
When it comes to its effect profile, HHC is very similar to the psychoactive feeling of THC. It will induce feelings of euphoria, alter your visual and auditory perception, boost your appetite, and temporarily increase your heart rate. Some HHC users put HHC somewhere between delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC, describing them as more relaxing than stimulating. Of course, HHC’s molecular structure means the cannabinoid offers many of THC’s therapeutic and health benefits, but there aren’t many studies that have investigated its potential in medicine.
In one study conducted on beta-HHC in rats, the cannabinoid demonstrated remarkable painkilling effects, but more research is needed to evaluate its full spectrum of health benefits.
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