HHC | What Is It and What Are It’s Effects?

What is HHC?

Scientific Name: 11-Nor-9β-hydroxyhexahydrocannabinol

HHC is a relatively rare and often misunderstood cannabinoid that has hit the market alongside many other chemicals riding the legality wave of the 2018 Farm Bill which made hemp legal at the federal level.

Of all the cannabis-related extracts to hit the market since then, few are as rare and mysterious as HHC.

Is HHC Safe & Legal?

Unfortunately, there is very little concrete research at this point to suggest whether or not it is safe to consume HHC. While it is the byproduct of chemicals that are considered safe, no research has been performed on its long-term effects. The chemical extraction process is notably unsafe—particularly for amateurs because it carries the risk of explosions.

HHC’s legality is also questionable. Though not expressly banned, the general consensus is that the status is rocky at best. True, pure, hemp-derived HHC likely falls within the legal purview of the 2018 Farm Bill—making the manufacturing and consumption of it legal at the federal level.

Does HHC Make You High?

HHC does produce a euphoric effect. However, the exact result is unclear. Most people agree that it is significantly milder than the recently popularized Delta 8, which is itself considered to be significantly milder than Delta 9—the THC chemical responsible for marijuana’s euphoric effect.

In other words, though it may get you “high” the ultimate effect will likely be considerably diminished compared to what most cannabis users are accustomed to.

Does HHC Contain THC?

Pure HHC is hemp-derived and should not contain THC.

HHC Side Effects

HHC has been associated with side effects including an accelerated heart rate, dry mouth, red eyes, nausea, paranoia, and sleep disruptions including insomnia.

HHC Benefits

One of the main reasons that many people currently find themselves reaching for HHC over the many other options that are currently on the market is that anecdotal evidence suggests it does not show up on drug tests. Exciting though this may be for cannabis enthusiasts who do not want to have to adjust their habits to pass a test, it should be noted that no research currently exists to confirm these reports. Try and your own risk.

Austa is a writer and editor based in the Denver and Southern California areas who specializes in the emerging Cannabis space. Austa specializes in hemp, cannabis, psychedelics, marijuana tourism and their impact on global marketplaces and culture.

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