What is Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and Is It Synthetic?

Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a compound discovered in the 1940s. Learn more about this compound and whether or not it can prevent drug testing.

What is Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and Is It Synthetic?

Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a compound that was first discovered in the 1940s. Although there is conflicting information about the exact date of its discovery, it is believed to have been found between 1944 and 1947. HHC can be produced synthetically, but in the hemp industry, it is created through the hydrogenation of THC delta-8.Unfortunately, no safety studies have been conducted on HHC yet, so the information available on its safety is speculative. The debate on whether or not HHC can prevent drug testing is still ongoing. However, anecdotal evidence from people who have taken these tests suggests that this is not the case. HHC and THC are similar molecules, except that CBN has alternate double bonds to stabilize the ring system, while HHC has additional hydrogen molecules instead of double bonds.

Due to its similarity to THC, HHC may have anti-inflammatory, antiemetic (against nausea and vomiting) and appetite stimulating properties, making it potentially useful in managing chronic pain, insomnia and chemotherapy side effects. HHC products such as disposable vaporizers, tinctures for oral consumption and rubbing concentrates are available in the market. Cannabis cultivars with a high THC content may also contain more HHC as THC degrades into HHC over time. TrēHouse high-potency HHC gummies contain 25 mg of HHC per serving, making a total of 500 mg per pack of 20. HHC is created when THC degrades and forms a cannabinoid similar to tetrahydrocannabinols. However, it does not have double bonds in its chemical structure.

Currently, manufacturers have not found an effective way to separate high-power HHC from its low-power twin. As a result, commercial HHC products are a kind of game of chance for buyers. It is essential that HHC products be tested for safety and quality. Companies that do not test their products should be actively avoided.