HHC is one of many cannabinoids, i.e. derivatives of the cannabis plant. Although cannabis has been known about and used for thousands of years, the scientific interest in specific cannabinoids such as THC, CBD and now HHC is relatively new. So let us take a look at HHC, which is becoming more and more popular. What is its origin, how is it obtained, and how to avoid risks?
How it all started
Interest in substances of a similar type grew throughout the 20th and 21st centuries as scientific research began to explore the potential of cannabinoids more deeply. As technology and methods for researching and synthesising cannabinoids progressed, HHC became more widely available and began to gain attention in medical and consumer circles as an alternative to more common cannabinoids.
HHC was discovered in 1944 by Roger Adams, an American chemist, when he converted THC into HHC by hydrogenation. This involves the addition of a hydrogen molecule, a synthetic transformation that is no longer legal today.
How HHC is obtained
HHC is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid because although it does occur in small amounts in cannabis, it is nevertheless derived from another cannabinoid – CBD. This is simply because the amount of HHC in cannabis is so small that to create products like HHC oils, sprays, or vaping pen cartridges would mean harvesting an incredible amount of the plant itself, which both financially and environmentally would not be worth it.
This form of obtaining HHC is legal; on the contrary, the original method of obtaining HHC by hydrogenation, i.e. adding a hydrogen molecule, is completely synthetic and thus illegal. This is because we are aware of cases in the past of synthetically produced alternatives to THC that have posed huge health risks to users. HHC is thus perfectly legal, natural, and enriching for humans.
How to make sure you have good quality HHC
It is undoubtedly true that many brands continue to use all sorts of short cuts in the production of cannabinoids that do not benefit end users. The HHC in our products, from vaping disposables to gummies, are thoroughly tested by third party laboratories. This ensures you always get a clean product, not one that is chemically modified or diluted.
HHC is a safe substance
Of course, nothing should ever be done to excess. Before experimenting, explore products from the HHC world, read carefully about their use, and start out consuming smaller doses. For example, with HHC oils, keep an eye on their concentration; with candies, start with only half a serving.
Studies are not yet extensive enough to confirm or deny with certainty the effects described by users. They do agree on the undeniable benefits and occasional side effects, so it is clear that HHC body processing is a completely individual issue. The high-quality extraction of HHC is safe, the effects are roughly half those of THC, and – most importantly – it is a perfectly legal substance. Find your own way to HHC.
