With all the different cannabinoids popping up, it can be confusing to determine which, if any are right for you. If you've found yourself wondering "What is Delta 8" you're in luck. We will take an in-depth look at both HHC and Delta 8 THC in order to compare the differences and similarities.
Each of these hemp-derived cannabinoids offers similar effects while giving a slightly different experience. While both are naturally occurring, compounds found in hemp there are some differences. Understanding those differences allows you to tailor your own experience depending on your preferences.
What Is Delta 8?
Delta 8 THC is a chemical compound found in both the cannabis plant and hemp plant. It was made legal with the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, which defined hemp from cannabis plants as being federally legal. Since Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC products can be derived from the hemp plant, they are technically legal.
Delta 8 THC is a psychoactive compound, which does produce intoxicating effects, meaning it does produce a "high", but to a much lesser degree than that of Delta 9 THC. Overall, Delta 8 THC's psychoactive effects fall in the middle ground between CBD (hemp-derived cannabidiol) and regular THC (Delta 9 THC). As a cannabinoid, the potential benefits that Delta 8 THC brings to the table are very appealing to many.
If Delta 8 THC is legal in the state you live in, it makes for a great alternative to those who are either unable to access medical or recreational cannabis legally. It's also a great option for those who prefer a more mellow alternative to Delta 9 THC and other cannabinoids.
Delta 8 Benefits
There is very limited clinical research at this point, with no confirmed medical use of Delta 8 THC. It does, however, show promise with quite a few medical and therapeutic applications. Due to lack of clinical trials and research, the potential benefits of Delta 8 are primarily coming from user reports.
Until more cannabinoid research is done, users have reported potential medical benefits and health benefits such as Delta 8's ability to relieve stress, stimulate appetite, reduce inflammation and help with pain relief. It may also be beneficial for certain medical conditions such as chronic pain and multiple sclerosis.
Potential therapeutic and recreational uses and benefits of Delta 8 THC products include helping to reduce stress, anxiety reduction, and assisting with maintaining a tranquil and euphoric state of mind.
Potential Delta 8 Risks
If you are thinking about trying Delta 8 THC, or any other hemp-derived products you should of course, speak with a medical professional about the risks and possible side effects or possible interactions with prescription medications before making your decision. You should also be sure to familiarize yourself with federal law along with any local laws pertaining to Delta 8 THC.
As with any chemical compound found in the cannabis plant, it affects the human body, specifically our central nervous system, in a number of ways. Because each of our bodies are slightly different, the effects that one person may experience may not be exactly the same as what you will.
It is important to understand the potential side effects that may come with using Delta 8 or any other synthetic cannabinoids. They may include dry mouth, red eyes, grogginess, and increase appetite.
Lastly, since hemp products are not currently regulated by the FDA. You should be conscious of only purchasing Delta 8 THC or HHC products from hemp producers and retailers that are reputable to ensure your safety. You should only purchase from companies that offer products that are lab tested, which will show that their production process does not leave behind any organic solvent or other harmful by-products.
What Is HHC?
HHC is a cannabinoid that is found in very small concentrations in both cannabis and hemp plants. HHC is unique in that it is created through a process of hydrogenation which removes the THC content from the cannabinoid and leaves behind two additional hydrogen atoms. HHC targets cannabinoid receptors, these same receptors are what are responsible for regulating how cannabinoids interact with our mind and body.
Like THC, HHC does produce psychoactive effects. The high associated with HHC is described as feelings of euphoria and changes in mental cognition. Some have noted feeling energetic and more creative. Often times these effects are associated with more mental clarity and focus.
Because of this it can be considered natural and semi-synthetic due to the processes required to create it and whether or not it is derived from the hemp plant or marijuana plant. This is a very similar process that is used to turn vegetable oil into margarine.
HHC is thought to be roughly 70-80% as strong as THC, meaning it is more potent than Delta 8 THC. This addition of these hydrogen atoms to its chemical structure makes HHC more shelf stable and resistant to breakdown from heat and UV light.
HHC Benefits
Because HHC is even less researched than Delta 8 THC, HHC therapeutic benefits primarily come from user reports. Some of the potential benefits that have been reported include a relaxed state of mind, euphoria, anxiety relief, reduction in inflammation and assistance with sleeping.
However, due to HHC being roughly 70-80% the strength of THC, it would be safe to assume that anyone looking for a more focused and clearer cerebral and body high would enjoy the effects that HHC produces.
Potential HHC Risks
With the very limited research that has been done, it is safe to assume that the risks associated with using HHC products are the very same risks there are when using Delta 8 THC. Some of these risks include potential side effects such as paranoia, anxiety when taken in excess doses, dry mouth, increased appetite, red eyes, and an elevated hear rate.
Another consideration, like Delta 8 THC or any hemp products, is that there is very little in the form of regulation. Since the hemp industry is not regulated users should be extra diligent about choosing a reputable retailer to purchase hemp products from.
All trustworthy retailers and manufacturers will offer third party lab testing of all of their HHC products to ensure that the product was manufactured with best practices in mind and does not contain any heavy metals, pesticides, chemical solvents, or by products from the manufacturing process.
Delta 8 THC vs HHC Differences and Similarities
Let’s start off by looking at their similarities. Both of these hemp-derived cannabinoids are naturally present in both the hemp and cannabis plant and are considered psychoactive compounds due to the psychoactive effects they produce.
At their core, all cannabinoids consist of the three same elements: carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen. The differences begin when we start looking at how each of these elements is assembled together.
Both Delta 9 THC and Delta 8 THC have a double bond in their chemical structure. Delta 8’s double bond lies at the eighth carbon, whereas Delta 9’s double bond lies at the 9th carbon. In comparison, HHC lacks a double bond altogether and instead has hydrogen molecules. Beyond that, these compounds are almost chemically identical, yet these differences do change how each of these cannabinoids interacts with your body.
Here is a chart comparing each compound for a quick visual understanding of each.
|
HHC |
Delta 8 THC |
Delta 9 THC |
|
|
Scientific Name |
Hexahydrocanninbinol |
Delta-8-Tetrahydrocanninbinol |
Cannabinol |
|
Strength |
80% |
60% |
100% |
|
Natural/Synthetic |
Natural (Synthetic Versions Exist) |
Natural |
Natural |
|
Methods of Consumption |
Edibles, Tinctures, & Vapes |
Edibles, Tinctures, & Vapes |
Edibles & Vapes |
|
Reported Effects |
Euphoria and Stimulation. Can increase focus, efficiency, and overall calmness |
Uplifting with Mild Euphoria, increased happiness, pain relief |
Euphoric feelings, relaxation, increased sleep, and appetite |
|
Potential Benefits |
Pain relief, mind and body high, anxiety relief, relaxation, and happiness |
Pain relief, improved sleep quality, relaxation, appetite boost, and digestive support |
Pain relief, increased appetite, muscle spasticity, insomnia, ease nausea, and anxiety |
|
Side Effects |
Anxiety, dizziness, dry mouth, red eyes, increased appetite |
Anxiety, dizziness, dry mouth, red eyes, increased appetite |
Anxiety, dizziness, dry mouth, red eyes, increased appetite |
|
Will it Get You High? |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Typical Dose |
15-30mg |
15-45mg |
15-30mg |
|
Legality |
Legal in 50 States |
Legal in 31 States |
Legal in 50 States |
|
Cost |
$$ |
$$ |
$$$ |
|
Can Cause Failed Drug Test |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
How Strong is HHC Compared to Delta 8 THC?
To get a good sense of this we will compare both to Delta 9 THC, the standard THC that is found in high-potency cannabis sativa. Bear in mind that everyone will have various effects based on factors such as physical characteristics, tolerance, and psychological makeup.
Most report Delta 8 to be roughly 60% as potent when compared to Delta 9 THC. Even though this is the case, a lot of people find the psychoactive effects of Delta 8 to be more enjoyable.
Both will impact everyone's auditory and visual perception. HHC is roughly 80% as potent as Delta 9, without the lethargic effects that can be common with Delta 9. This alone makes HHC an attractive offering for those looking for the strongest option when Delta 9 is either not legal or not preferred.
How is HHC Made? Natural or Synthetic?
Both HHC and Delta 8 are naturally found in marijuana and cannabis plants in very small amounts. HHC mainly differs from Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC in the fact that it is a hydrogenated THC derivative.
Delta 9 THC can be found in concentration levels of up to 30% whereas Delta 8 and HHC constitute no more than 1% in the raw plant. This means that in most cases these cannabinoids are, albeit natural, created in a lab.
This is not necessarily always the case for HHC however, HHC can be synthesized synthetically. HHC created in this way is not considered legal, being as it would then not be hemp-derived. Be sure the products you are choosing are from a reputable source and contain natural ingredients.
Other cannabinoids like THCP, THCC, THCB, and THC-O are not naturally occurring whatsoever and are considered synthetic.
HHC and Delta 8 Consumption Methods
As with Delta 8, HHC has all of the same product types. So, no matter your preferred method of consumption you should be able to find both HHC and Delta 8 in disposable vapes, vape cartridges, tinctures, and edibles.
Effects of HHC vs Delta 8 Compared
If you are looking for an intoxicating hemp derived cannabinoid you won't be disappointed with either HHC or Delta 8 THC. However, besides the clear difference in potency, it is interesting to note that the “tone” of the experience from each is slightly different.
Most users report a slightly more focused and productive high from HHC. This makes it a great option for tasks that require a higher level of focus. Where Delta 8 users primary report more feelings of euphoria and a higher level or relaxation and calmness.
HHC vs Delta 8 Side Effects
Side effects of HHC and Delta 8 are very similar to Delta 9 hemp extracts. Cannabis users often report slightly higher occurrences of unwanted side effects with Delta 9. This can most likely be contributed to Delta 9’s higher potency.
The most common side effects of all three are:
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Paranoia
- Red Eyes
- Rapid Heart Rate
- Increased Appetite
It should be noted that taking higher doses does increase your chance of experiencing these unwanted side effects. When comparing all three compounds at a similar dosage of each, Delta 9 is more likely to cause these effects.
HHC vs Delta 8 Legal Comparison
As of the writing of this article here is a look at the HHC legal status along with the following hemp derived cannabinoids. At the moment HHC is legal in all 50 states, Delta 8 is legal in 31 states, and Delta 9 is legal 50 states.
Hemp derived Delta 8, Delta 9, and HHC are all federally legal due to the 2018 Farm Bill and its legalization surrounding hemp-derived products. This bill defines all hemp-derived cannabinoids that contain less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC.
Although there isn’t any HHC specific legislation found in the United States at this time, the safest approach for many would be to assume that states that have banned Delta 8 would also consider HHC banned.
Cost and Availability
Delta 8 has been available on the market now for quite some time, in fact its popularity has skyrocketed. HHC on the other hand has not quite reached that same level of success. For that reason, HHC availability has been less than that of Delta 8. It does look to be continuing to grow as more and more companies are starting to add HHC product offerings. HHC’s legal status will also most likely boost its popularity, being legal in states that have banned Delta 8.
Will HHC or Delta 8 Make You Fail a Drug Test?
Yes, it is very likely that both of these cannabinoids will make you fail a drug test if you’ve consumed them within a few days prior to testing. If you are subject to drug testing it is best to avoid both Delta 8 and HHC.
Keep in mind, how long each stay in your system can vary depending on how often you take them, the dosages taken, and your metabolism. On the topic of dosage, those who take higher dosages of Delta 8 and HHC may find that they are detectable in your system for much longer than those who take the average dosage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HHC the same as THC?
Technically no, HHC does not contain THC. HHC is derived from hemp, but the THC is removed during the hydrogenation process, making HHC a synthetically derived cannabinoid.
What is the difference between HHC and THC?
HHC and THC appear to behave very similarly in the body however they do vary chemically. HHC does not contain any double bonds in its chemical structure, HHC tends to have a much longer shelf life, and the bioavailability differs greatly.
What are the potential effects of HHC?
No serious adverse effects or deaths have been reported from taking HHC. Some minor side effects that you may experience are similar to side effects of THC. These effects include paranoia, dry mouth, red eyes, and anxiety.
How do you take Delta 8 gummies?
Delta 8 gummies are a popular way to take Delta 8 THC. You should always start off with a very small dosage of Delta 8 until you have assessed your personal tolerance before taking more.
What are the side effects of Delta 8 and HHC?
Based on anecdotal evidence, the side effects of Delta 8 THC and HHC have been reportedly very low. The main side effects users experience is similar to that of standard THC but to a much lesser degree. Side effects can range from dry mouth, red eyes, possible paranoia, and anxiety.
Conclusion, HHC vs Delta 8
Even though both compounds share similar chemical properties, each offers a slightly different experience. HHC is more often chosen by students and professionals looking for its energy and creative boosting attributes. Delta 8 is best used for the afternoon or evenings for those looking for more relaxing qualities.
Based on legalities alone, you may be limited to which cannabis products you can choose. HHC makes a great option for anyone living in a state that has banned Delta 8 THC and of course for those living in any area where Delta 9 is not legal. If you are not confined by these restrictions, it is best to try a small dosage of each as a great way to experience their differences and explore which works best for you.
Keep in mind it is best to try each of these cannabinoids separately to accurately determine their individual effects before using them in conjunction with any other cannabinoids. If you do decide that HHC is right for you, Everyday Delta offers a full line of HHC products in a variety of forms.