How Is HHC Made?

HHC, hexahydrocannabinol is a minor cannabinoid naturally occurring in the cannabis Sativa plant. Scientists have discovered that HHC can provide various potential health benefits and support overall mental and physical well-being. By learning how HHC is made, we can get closer to how this compound can benefit the human body.  

Reminder: What is HHC?

Scientists have discovered more than 100 cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, including HHC. HHC is a distant relative of THC that has recently come into the public limelight. It occurs in small amounts in the cannabis plant, which is why most HHC products are made in independent labs.  

Regarding its legality, no state has made any restrictions on HHC products, and it has many similarities to THC. It may also be useful for stress relief, better appetite, and improved sleep. Many people also use HHC as an alternative to getting high due to its strong psychoactive effects. Some users have compared HHC to THC, which is effective and generally safe.  

How is Hexahydrocannabinol Made?  

HHC was discovered around the early 1940s by Roger Adams. It is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid, synthetic or naturally derived from cannabis or cannabinoids. HHC is made by hydrogenating THC, i.e., changing THC to HHC. This process involves combining THC with hydrogen molecules to get the desired HHC.  

It reforms the structure of THC by replacing the double bond with two hydrogen atoms to alter the molecular weight and make a more stable compound.  

HHC can also be made from CBD. It involves an intricate process where CBD is extracted from raw hemp and then distilled and isolated into powder. Another method is the hydrogenation of terpenes to HHC. This process involves converting L-carvone terpenes using a range of catalysts, high temperatures, pressure, and hydrogen atoms.  

Scientists have also stressed the importance of well-equipped laboratories to ensure a proper extraction process. Some scientists also believe hydrogenation can improve stability and resistance to thermo-oxidative breakdown. It is used in many manufacturing processes. For instance, this is the method used to run vegetable oil into margarine.  

A major concern for most healthcare workers is the use of toxic chemicals during the manufacturing process, which can cause unwanted chemicals to get into the final product and cause serious implications for the user.  

Is HHC Fully Synthetic?

HHC is a semi-synthetic compound, and most of the best HHC brands you find in the market make their products in a laboratory. It is also found in small amounts in cannabis plants. Many scientists describe HHC as a distant relative of THC, only containing two additional atoms, giving the product a longer shelf life.  

In addition, two different kinds of HHC molecules are created during the extraction process: the 9R HHC and the 9S HHC. The 9R HHC actively binds to the body’s natural endocannabinoid receptors more than the 9S HHC, which has a different molecular structure. This difference in the molecular structure will also affect the product's potency.  

As a result, many manufacturers try to maximize the number of active molecules in the compound to ensure a viable product. However, HHC is generally less potent than THC in terms of its psychoactive effect. And many users have claimed that it produces a more pleasant, cerebral, and energetic high.  

Is HHC Safe To Consume?

There is little to no research on the short-term or long-term effects of HHC after it has been ingested. In addition, the cannabis market is largely unregulated, and many manufacturers get away with making poor-quality and substandard products. There is also a lot of controversy surrounding the legality of HHC in many US states.  

Nevertheless, HHC has grown popular as an alternative way to get high without taking THC. Many people also claim to enjoy the effects of HHC and have reported many positive experiences after taking the product. It is also said to have minor side effects like dry mouth, and there are few reports of nausea or vomiting after taking HHC.  

Ultimately, HHC is well-tolerated by most people, and right now, it appears that there is no cause for concern. However, we recommend choosing only high-quality products tested in a third-party lab. This will ensure that you have a pure and authentic product that is not contaminated by toxic chemicals.

See also: Articles, HHC, Industry

Enny Soyinka

PharmacologistExpertise : Research on cannabinoids, Brand Reviewer

Enny Soyinka stands at the forefront of hemp research, blending a deep-rooted passion for holistic health with a robust scientific background. As an accomplished pharmacologist, Enny's extensive research into hemp has made them a pivotal figure in demystifying its health benefits. Their expertise shines a light on the nuanced relationship between cannabinoids and wellness, offering well-informed insights in the dynamic world of cannabinoids.