Does HHC make you high??
Does HHC Get You High?
One of the most popular new cannabis products to hit the market is a cannabinoid called hexahydrocannabinol or HHC. It's a synthetic compound made by hydrogenating THC, the primary psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis. Many cannabis consumers have questions about HHC, such as:
- What exactly is HHC?
- Is HHC legal?
- What are its benefits and effects?
- Are there psychoactive effects of HHC?
An Introduction to HHC
Although many consumers are just learning about HHC, it's actually been known to scientists and cannabis growers for a long time. Although HHC is naturally found in cannabis, it's only present in trace amounts, making it impractical to extract it. That's why HHC being sold today is made in the laboratory, by adding hydrogen molecules to THC and forming a unique compound.
One of the major benefits of HHC is that it's chemically distinct from THC, meaning it's not subject to the same legal restrictions. The 2018 Farm Bill makes all hemp-derived products legal provided they don't contain more than .3 percent of delta 9 THC. Of course, federal legislation is always subject to change and states can also ban particular cannabinoids. However, as of now, HHC has slipped under the radar despite having many similarities to THC.
Effects of HHC
Most people who are investigating cannabinoids such as HHC are mainly concerned about the effects. The most common question asked about HHC is if it can get you high the way THC does. The answer is "yes," but an HHC high isn't exactly the same as a THC or any other kind of high. Compared to delta-9 THC, HHC is usually a little mellower and less intense. People who are looking for a more stimulating high, such as for creative inspiration, may prefer THC. However, HHC is ideal for relaxation, reflection, and enjoying a mellow experience, whether on your own or with others.
The effects of HHC are closer to delta-8 THC than the more familiar delta-9 THC. Like delta-8, HHC appeals to users who may have unpleasant side effects from delta-9 THC, such as anxiety or paranoia. Of course, the effects of cannabinoids vary from user to user, and some people experience side effects from HHC as well. However, most people find it to be a very mellow high.
Although the effects of HHC are typically experienced as mild, some users also experience side effects such as dizziness, anxiety, dry mouth, rapid heart rate, and paranoia. Side effects often occur when someone takes a dosage that's too high for their tolerance level.
Factors That Influence the Effects of HHC?
When considering the effects of HHC or any cannabinoid, there are many factors that are likely to influence your experience.
- Personal tolerance. Your tolerance is influenced by your age, weight, gender, and overall body chemistry.
- Strength of the product. Each product has a certain strength, measured in milligrams. There's a big difference, for example, between taking a few gummies that contain 25 mg each and taking a tincture that delivers 1000 mg per dose.
- Method of consumption. The effects of any cannabis product will differ depending on whether you're smoking flower, using disposable vapes, or consuming an edible. Bioavailability will determine how quickly and strongly the effects reach you.
- Dosage. Even though HHC tends to produce a mild high, taking a large enough dose may produce more extreme and possibly undesirable effects.
- Terpenes. Some HHC products are combined with terpenes, which affect the taste and may also contribute to the quality of the high. It's still unclear if terpenes are psychoactive, many users find that they affect the experience.
How to Have the Best Possible Experience With HHC
HHC is still a relatively new discovery for most cannabis users. For anyone who wants to try it and have the best experience possible, keep the following in mind.
- Find a reputable source of HHC. When buying online, it's usually safest to choose suppliers in your area. Look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to ensure the purity and safety of the products.
- Don't consider cost alone. While you need to consider your budget, when it comes to HHC, you should keep in mind that the best quality products are not always the cheapest. In fact, very low prices often indicate poor quality or even unsafe products.
- Start with a small dosage and work your way up until you identify your tolerance level. Even if you're experienced with other cannabinoids, it's best to be cautious when trying anything new.
As more is learned about HHC, we'll know more about its benefits and psychoactive effects. However, it's already being enjoyed by many consumers who appreciate its calming effects. Getting the most out of HHC is a matter of finding a trustworthy supplier and identifying the products and dosage that are appropriate for you.
