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HHC vs THC: What's the Difference?

In our latest question and answer our expert discusses what the difference is between HHC and THC. Read more to find out what our expert has to say!
HHC vs THC: What's the Difference?

Lukas Asked

What is HHC and how is it different than THC?

Summary

HHC stands for "Hexahydrocannabinol". HHC is a chemical analog of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that exerts effects similar to THC.
HHC has a slightly different chemical structure than THC and a weaker affinity for the CB1 receptor.
HHC has a questionable regulatory status because it can be made from hemp and closely resembles THC.
HHC products are gaining popularity, but more research about its safety is desperately needed.

Answer

Hi Lukas and thank you for your question!  Let's learn more about what HHC is and how it is different from THC below. 

What is HHC?


HHC stands for "Hexahydrocannabinol", a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Although HHC occurs naturally in cannabis, it is only found in low concentrations. HHC can also be synthesized from hemp-derived cannabinoids, such as CBD, through a series of chemical reactions. 

HHC and THC are often discussed in the same breath, primarily because HHC shares many similarities in terms of effects with THC. However, the compound also has some distinct features distinguishing it from THC.

How Is HHC different than THC? 


The main difference between HHC and THC lies in their chemical structures. 

HHC Chemical Structure
HHC Chemical Structure
THC Chemical Structure
THC Chemical Structure

 

HHC and THC both have cyclohexane rings, but THC's ring includes a double bond (highlighted here in red). This small structural difference changes the pharmacological properties of the two cannabinoids. HHC binds weaker to CB1 receptors than THC does. As a result, HHC is less potent than THC. The psychoactive effects (such as euphoria) are more mild compared to THC at the same dose. Hence, HHC has become popular for consumers who wish to experience the effects of THC, but are looking for more of a toned down effect. 

 

More about HHC


The following points further illuminate the distinctive nature of HHC:

  1. The pharmacologic effects of HHC haven't been investigated as extensively as THC. Therefore, more research is needed before one can be sure about HHC's safety and effects. 
  2. HHC's legal status is debatable. HHC is not clearly regulated anywhere. It falls under a broad classification of "cannabinoids derived from cannabis", but it is also an analog of THC, so some consider HHC illegal under Federal law. Others consider HHC legal since it can be derived from Hemp. 
  3. A unique chemical structure, lacking a double bond in its cyclohexane ring, and lower affinity at the CB1 receptor are hallmark features of HHC, which make it different from THC. 

Concluding Remarks 

HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) is a cannabinoid compound that naturally occurs, in low amounts, in the cannabis plant. Its chemical structure is very similar to THC but it exhibits some distinct qualities as well. While HHC produces effects similar to THC, its chemical structure and potency differ slightly. 

This difference results in variations in its effects and characteristics. Further research is necessary to fully understand the pharmacological properties, safety,  and potential therapeutic applications of HHC.

HHC has a questionable legal status and is considered by some experts to be illegal under federal law. Others consider it legal under the farm bill

  1. Hexahydrocannabinol on the Light Cannabis Market: The Latest "New" Entry (PubMed).
  2. 9-nor-9beta-hydroxyhexahydrocannabinol, a cannabinoid with potent antinociceptive activity: comparisons with morphine (PubMed).

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