HHC: What Is This New Cannabinoid, And What Does It Feel Like?
Many conversations surrounding cannabis and its cannabinoids often revolve around only a few primary compounds. As such, many people who use cannabis products are more likely to recognize these cannabinoids than others. In case you didn’t know, the cannabis plant has more than 150 cannabinoids, which scientists and researchers know very little about. One of these cannabinoids, HHC, is slowly but indeed increasing on the market. This is an excellent place to start if you are interested in HHC, its attributes, benefits, and side effects.
What is HHC?
The first point of departure when discussing HHC and what it feels like is understanding what exactly it is. HHC or Hexahydrocannabinol is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. However, unlike other cannabinoids, which are almost always in large quantities in the plant such that manufacturers can extract proper quantities, HHC is in trace amounts. Therefore, manufacturers are unlikely to extract HHC naturally from the plant.
Scientists and manufacturers must chemically extract and synthesize their own THC to get quantities of HHC, which can be used in manufacturing. The process of synthesizing HHC from THC is called hydrogenation and is significantly similar to how margarine manufacturers harden fat in the manufacturing process. This process takes advantage of the double carbon bond in the organic structure of THC. Using catalysts such as palladium or nickel, the manufacturers apply high pressure on the THC, thus breaking the bond and adjoining a hydrogen atom into the structure. Since hydrogen requires only one covalent electron to bond, only one hydrogen atom is added to the structure.
While HHC and THC are different in their organic structure based on the additional hydrogen atom in HHC’s structure, the two cannabinoids have some similar attributes. For example, both cannabinoids are responsible for the psychoactive effects associated with the cannabis plant. Therefore, a holistic approach is critical if you are keen on using HHC to experience the euphoric feelings of cannabis but ask yourself, “Is HHC safe to smoke?”
If so, the following information will help you gain vital insights into the compound’s effects on the mind and body.
How Does HHC Feel Like?
If you are familiar with cannabis, THC, and its various isomers, the following comparison of the experience of the high you will get after consuming HHC will be simple.
HHC users have noted that the experience feels like something in the middle of THC Delta 8 and Delta 9. This means the effect is stimulating and invigorating rather than a sedative and relaxing.
Knowing what the high feels like will help you decide what time you want to take the product and what the anticipated effect will be.
The effects of this cannabinoid are quite uplifting; hence, you will undoubtedly enjoy the effects in the morning before a long day or in case you want a kickstart to continue with an exhausting task. However, if you try using the compound after a long day in an attempt to relax, the counterintuitive effect will occur. You are unlikely to experience sedation and relaxation when using products infused with this cannabinoid as you would with a cannabinoid such as Delta 9.
Things to Consider Before Using HHC
Before using HHC, you should familiarize yourself with its possible effects and what you may experience. It is crucial to note that these effects are not familiar to all users of HHC. The results may vary since everyone has a unique experience when using cannabis
and its various cannabinoids.
Moreover, since HHC has not been the subject of intense research as with other compounds, most effects are based on anecdotal information and not precisely cogent analysis.
HHC Dosage
The potency of HHC is around 90% of that of Delta 9 THC. This means that users can expect a slightly milder high with HHC than with Delta 9 THC. In addition, one can experience a more robust head and body experience for relief.
Like most cannabis products, the best way to consume HHC is to start slow with a low dosage and work your way up as you develop tolerance.
Even though you might have experienced the effects of THC and other cannabinoids, monitoring the dosage to avoid side effects associated with overdosing is better.
In addition, it’s critical to remember that the effects may take time and differ depending on the user’s experience, tolerance, and other factors.
Parting Shot
There you have it, cursory guidance on HHC and the effects of the drug. Remember, if you are only starting on HHC, you may want to start the consumption with only a little of the product before gradually increasing your intake, depending on your experience. Likewise, be wary of the HHC effects to ensure that anytime you take the cannabinoid, you are in a safe and comfortable space.