In the not-too-distant past, many people thought hemp was a useless weed. But, in reality, the hemp plant has many uses- and opinions have come a long way. Scientists know of over 100 cannabinoids which are now one of the prominent topics across the world. Let’s look into two in particular, and talk about their similarities and differences! This is delta 8 THC vs HHC.
All thanks to further research and a wide range of experiments on cannabis products, our thoughts on cannabis evolve with time. Now we can learn the natural capabilities of this plant.
More recent are the discoveries of more euphoric and beneficial cannabinoids like Delta-8 THC and HHC.
But, people don’t have enough knowledge of these potent cannabinoids. Here, we’re going to compare HHC with Delta-8 THC and find out what they are, their fundamental differences, and their benefits.
What is Delta-8 THC?
Generally, Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol (delta 8, delta 8 THC) is a naturally existing psycho-active substance in the Cannabis Sativa plant. The cannabis sativa plant is legally either hemp or marijuana, depending on delta-9 THC content. Though delta 8 appears naturally in cannabis, the amount is insignificant.
Naturally, it occurs at low concentrations of 1% or less.
That’s why CBD or hemp-obtained cannabidiol is used to manufacture condensed amounts of D8-THC. Several manufacturers create Delta-8 THC throughout a transformation process that involves CBD. It requires acid and a solvent to produce D8-THC products in large quantities.
Delta 8 was first discovered in the 1940s and synthesized completely in the 1960s. Now, Delta-8 THC is among the popular cannabinoids to achieve acknowledgment in the cannabis market.
What Is HHC?
Another recently appeared cannabinoid on the scene is HHC, or Hexahydrocannabinol is another steady and hydrogenated formation of THC. Though it may exist naturally in cannabis plants, the amount is miniscule. So, an advanced procedure called hydrogenation is followed to get a utilizable amount.
THC is saturated along with hydrogen atoms at the existence of a catalyzer like palladium or nickel and high pressure. As a result, the double-bond structure of THC gets broken down and replaced with hydrogen. But still, the basic potency and effects of cannabinoids remain unchanged.
An organic chemist of America, Roger Adams, first discovered this compound in 1974. As there are no double-bonds as THC in its chemical structure, HHC is chemically different from Delta-8 THC. However, this fine-drawn difference swaps this particle’s binding chemistry with the endocannabinoid system. Moreover, it increases the lifespan of this compound.
Delta-8 THC VS HHC
Having several interesting characteristics, both HHC and D8-THC are favorite cannabinoids in the market. And consumers often wonder which one would be the best of the two. So, here is a guide to the dissimilarities between Delta-8 THC and HHC.
How To Make Delta-8 vs HHC?
Let’s start with the manufacturing process of these two compounds. Technically, they both are hemp-derived but follow individually particular synthesizing procedures.
The most common way to make D8-THC is the degradation process of the main active compound of hemp- THC. However, different methods can successfully make Delta-8. As this process cannot produce adequate amounts of it, another technique that includes utilizing cannabidiol or CBD (a chemical compound) to create D8 THC in large quantities.
To begin this process, cannabidiol is transformed into dissolvent heptane. This mixture goes through purifying and neutralizing processes with a combination of acids.
To reach the appropriate high-concentrated product, the final batch of producing D8-THC has to go under safety and purity tests. D8-THC products, including Delta-8 vape cartridges, tinctures, gummies, Delta-8 concentrate, and capsules, use this extraction.
On the other hand, HHC follows a modified multi-step procedure created earlier. Basically, raw-hemp-derived CBD extraction is used to develop HHC. After being distilled and confined, the CBD in powder form is where HHC comes from.
Due to the legality issue in several states, the manufacturers have to get more creative with the HHC procedure. Now, we know with D8-THC that hemp produces relatively convenient convert compounds. The different atomic structures of these compounds help them to set apart. But while speaking chemically, there aren’t many differences between them. And thankfully, just like D8, CBD is also the base to create HHC.
Delta 8 THC VS HHC: Effects
Both Delta-8 and HHC are analogs of THC. That means these are psycho-active cannabinoids, although they are different from each other. And the key differences are in their effects on our bodies.
Mainly reported that Delta-8 THC offers a subtle high relaxing effect that uplifts your mental clarity and mood. Being moderate tends to give the users a peaceful and relieving feeling. Although the side effects vary based on the individual user and may not show up immediately after, you usually can expect effects like clear-headed high, dry mouth and eyes, drowsiness, and improved appetite after consuming Delta-8.
Depending on the consumption method, it takes time to show effects. For instance, after consuming Delta-8 edible, generally, it takes 60-90 minutes to begin absorbing in the body and hit the peak. Then the effect may last for up to 3-8 hours.
On the other hand, according to preliminary studies, HHC might be 70-80% the potency of THC. That means it is more potent than Delta-8 THC. In comparison to Delta-8, it generally offers sedative and relaxing effects. While moderate doses bring about joyful mood-altering products like THC, the reported high-dose side effects could resemble normal delta-9 THC.
The legitimacy of Delta-8 THC and HHC
Currently, in many states, Delta-8 THC and HHC have passed the legality test and are legal. Thanks to the Farm Bill 2018, it is now legal to use and sell HHC and D-8 THC products containing tetrahydrocannabinol no more than 0.3% in several selected states. And for this legitimation, these cannabinoids are growing massively and becoming more popular. To enjoy either Delta-8 THC or HHC safely, check out the law of your regional state laws.
Delta-8 THC or HHC: Which One To Choose?
Which one is the best, Delta 8 THC or HHC? Well, it’s really up to you. Both of them are effectively beneficial to the users. Nevertheless, whether you choose HHC or Delta-8, their potencies, effects, and individual requirements are mainly many facts.
If you want to go for a higher feeling, Hexahydrocannabinol is the right one. But, if you prefer more moderate effects, Delta-8-THC is ideal.
However, these potent cannabinoid compounds bring you an extensive range of medicinal and recreational benefits. The best part is that unless you consume a high dosage of them, neither Delta-8 THC nor HHC will have harmful effects on your body. So, as long as you have all the necessary information about these cannabinoids, you can try them. We hope this blog helps you understand more about delta 8 and HHC, two very promising cannabinoids!
Have more questions about Delta-8 THC? Check out our blog here!
