The cannabinoids industry keeps surprising us through the discovery of cannabinoids from time to time. First, selecting a hemp product was restricted to Delta 9 and CBD. Now in a local and online dispensary, you’ll find cannabinoids like Delta 8, Delta 10, HHC, and THC-O.
Which cannabinoid will give you the desired results? How can you choose the right cannabinoid? By comparing the properties of different cannabinoids, you’ll be able to make the right decision. This article compares two novel chemical compounds, HHC and THC-O.
READ: Is HHC Stronger Than Delta 8?
What Is HHC?
Hexhaydrocannabinol, aka HHC, is a psychoactive cannabinoid that naturally occurs in hemp in small quantities. It is a hydrogenated version of Delta 9 – THC and belongs to the category of THC. American chemist Roger Adams discovered HHC in the 1940s through the hydrogenation of Delta 9.
Are you familiar with the term ‘hydrogenation’? It’s the same chemical process that dairy products manufacturers use to make margarine. By adding an extra hydrogen molecule into Delta 9, the cannabinoid converts into HHC.
What Is THC-O?
THC-O is a member of the cannabinoid family and a potent psychoactive compound. Although this chemical compound is a cannabinoid, hemp doesn’t create it. THCO is a synthetic analog of Delta 9 – THC that was discovered during the 1940s when the US army investigated its effects.
What Is The Difference Between HHC And THC-O?
HHC and THC-O have various characteristics that make them differ from one another. These include:
- Potency
How intense the intoxicating effects of HHC and THCO depend on how strong they can form a bond with the cannabinoid receptors of your body’s endocannabinoid system. The binding power of THC-O is stronger than Delta 9 – THC, while HHC has a slightly weaker binding ability than Delta 9 – THC.
The potency of THC-O is 300% of Delta 9 – THC, making its intoxicating effects three times stronger than marijuana. Some users report the cannabinoid has the potential to provide a psychedelic trip. Taking THC-O will give you a powerful euphoric high that may expand your mind and allow you to make profound spiritual reflections. If you’re comfortable with the effects of marijuana or have a high tolerance to Delta 9 – THC, you may have a pleasant experience with THC-O. On the other hand, people with low tolerance to Delta 9 – THC should avoid using THC-O.
The intoxicating effects of HHC are milder than THCO and not as strong as Delta 9 – THC. The cannabinoid gives a Sativa high, so it may energize your body, relax your mind and body, and even improve your mood.
- Chemical Structure
HHC and THC-O both contain the generic THC structure with a few differences. HHC is a hydrogenated version of Delta 9 – THC and doesn’t have a double bond. In contrast, THC-O has the addition of an ester component in its THC structure.
- Extraction Procedures
THC-O is an artificial cannabinoid as it doesn’t exist naturally in hemp. To make it, manufacturers first extract CBD from hemp. Next, they convert CBD into Delta 8 with the help of an isomerization process. After obtaining Delta 8, manufacturers use a highly volatile and flammable liquid called acetic anhydride. When manufacturers add this chemical compound to Delta 8, its molecules convert into THCO.
Unlike THC-O, HHC is a natural psychoactive cannabinoid. Yet, manufacturers can’t extract it from hemp because it occurs in tiny quantities. Instead, manufacturers use a lab-driven process called hydrogenation which requires using nickel or palladium as a catalyst.
- Cost And Availability Of Products
THC-O products come in the form of drinks, gummies, vape carts, and pre-rolls. These products cost between $10.00 to $40.00. On the contrary, HHC products have a wider variety and are available as tinctures, gummies, vape carts, cookies, and capsules. The cost of HHC products ranges from $25.00 to $40.00.
Are HHC And THC-O Legal?
At the federal level, THC-O and HHC products are legal in the US under the 2018 Farm Bill as long as they’re hemp-derived and contain no more than 0.3% THC. At the state level, however, the legal status of both cannabinoids differs.
Several states don’t allow using chemically-derived THC forms like Delta 8 and may ban THC-O and HHC. These include Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, and Rhode Island. People living in any of these states should avoid using HHC and THCO.
Remember, state regulations can change at any moment. If you’re living in a state that allows using HHC or THCO, stay up to date with your local state laws to prevent facing any penalties.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can You Take HHC Gummies During The Day?
If you’re looking for a cannabinoid that can boost your productivity and improve your mood during the day, using HHC may be the key. The cannabinoid provides a Sativa like high, giving an energizing and clear-headed psychoactive buzz.
- What Is The Cost Of THC-O Tinctures?
THC-O tinctures cost between $32.00 to $50.00 based on their dosage.
- What Is The Shelf Life Of HHC Flowers?
HHC flowers remain fresh for up to 6 months when stored properly. You should use this product before its expiration as it loses efficacy due to the breakdown of cannabinoids inside them.
- Do THC-O Distillates Contain Terpenes?
THC-O distillates won’t only give you the cannabinoid in high doses. These products include a collection of terpenes to enhance the beneficial effects of THCO.
- Do HHC Carts Smell Like Weed?
The juice in HHC vape carts consists of terpenes for generating a pleasant aroma. Some terpenes give off a herby, earthy fragrance, which may cause vape carts to smell like weed.
READ: HHC vs THC: Which One Is Better For You?
Where to find the best HHC & THC-O products?
Cannabinoids like HHC and THC-O are seemingly found everywhere. Still, you must always be careful about what you put in your body, especially if you’re looking for hemp products or controlled substances. When it comes to reliability, there is no better place than Slyng.com.
Slyng has partnered with some of the most trusted names in the smoking industry to give you myriad choices of the best HHC products and other THC alternatives. They also offer coupon codes so you can get HHC-produced products like HHC gummies, THC vape cartridges, HHC oil, and more at an affordable price.
Takeaway – HHC Vs. THC-O
HHC and THC-O both belong to the THC family and are psychoactive cannabinoids with a few differences. THC-O is an ester version of Delta 9- THC, whereas HHC is a hydrogenated form of Delta 9 – THC. If you’re looking for intoxicating effects that are more powerful than Delta 9 – THC, you can use THCO. However, if you want a mellow high that calms your nerves without sedation, HHC may be a better fit.