HHC vs. THC: Which is Better?

HHC vs. THC are two cannabinoids that people all over the country are indulging in every day. But which one of these cannabinoids is best? What is the difference between HHC and THC

If you’re having trouble distinguishing one of these compounds from the other—or you aren’t sure which one is right for you—we’ve got you covered. 

Below, we’ve broken down the ins and outs of HHC vs. THC to help you uncover which is potentially better for you.

Table of Contents:

• What is HHC?
• What is THC? 
• How Do HHC and THC Act on Your Body? 
• Are HHC and THC Legal? 
• Is HHC Natural or Synthetic? 
• How Does HHC Make You Feel?
• HHC vs. THC: What Should I Choose?
• Is HHC Stronger Than THC?
• How Much HHC is Equal to THC? 
• Where to Buy HHC vs. THC
• The Bottom Line 
• Is HHC Safe? 
• Do HHC Products Show up on Drug Tests?
• Will HHC Get You High like THC?
• How Long Does an HHC High Last?
• Which is Stronger: HHC or THC? 
• How Much HHC Should I Smoke?

What is HHC?

HHC is a cannabinoid found in cannabis plants that’s short for hexahydrocannabinol. This compound is unique and is only present in tiny amounts within the plant. 

Because HHC is only a minor cannabinoid, chemists have had to get creative in terms of synthesizing it and using HHC within products. To make HHC, professionals will take hemp-derived CBD (or sometimes THC) and combine it with hydrogen molecules using a process called hydrogenation. 

Hydrogenation creates a chemical reaction that transforms CBD cannabinoids into HHC cannabinoids. This allows professionals to then have ample amounts of HHC to infuse into products like tinctures, topicals, and other extracts. 

HHC is novel in the sense that it has a very similar chemical composition to THC; this also suggests that HHC’s effects are going to be alike as well. As a result, HHC is a psychoactive substance. It’s going to get you high when you consume it. 

What is THC? 

THC, on the other hand, is cannabis’ most abundant psychoactive compound. This cannabinoid is well-known for its strong ability to get you high, leaving consumers relaxed and giggly all at once. 

The way THC interacts with the body is what makes it able to get consumers high. The human body contains a system of cell signaling and receptors called the endocannabinoid system. These cannabinoid receptors, CB1s and CB2s, are present throughout the body; however, CB1 receptors are predominantly found in the brain. 

THC, then, works well with the cannabinoid receptors in the brain to produce the blissful results you’re used to associating with cannabis. 

However, THC is also well-liked for its supportive effects. While everyone will experience slightly different results, the therapeutic effects of THC can be incredibly widespread.    

How Do HHC and THC Act on Your Body? 

The way that HHC acts in the body is still being looked into today, and we’re waiting for more conclusive studies and trials. However, the similar chemical structure to THC lets professionals know that HHC and THC will likely work in the body in similar ways, as well. 

So, let’s talk about how THC acts in the body.

We mentioned earlier that the THC cannabinoid affects the body’s endocannabinoid system. The ECS plays a huge role in the body’s biological functions, ensuring everything is regulated and working as it should. The CB1 receptors are mostly present in the brain (as well as the central nervous system), whereas the CB2 receptors are mostly found in the peripheral nervous system and immune system.

When THC or HHC enters the bloodstream, whether by smoking, vaping, or any other method it will eventually reach the brain. Here, it binds to the CB1 receptors, creating a variety of potential effects.

The actual effects of THC and HHC and the cannabinoids’ potency will depend on various factors, including dosage size, strain, method of consumption, and your individual tolerance and body chemistry. 

HHC and THC metabolites will linger in your body for quite some time after consumption; though, the actual length of time does depend on the type of product you consume and how frequently you consume it.  

Are HHC and THC Legal? 

The legality of HHC vs. THC is a bit complicated. Let’s start with what the federal laws have to say.

The 2018 Farm Bill makes hemp and hemp-derived products that contain 0.3% THC or less legal at the federal level. This means that, theoretically, both hemp-derived HHC and THC products are federally legal in the US as long as they follow the Farm Bill’s guidelines. This is why you’re able to find both HHC and THC products online.

Unfortunately, some states have begun regulating hemp-derived THC and THC isomers, including HHC. Currently, not all states allow HHC and THC. So, you need to take the time to research the specific laws in your area regarding THC isomers or HHC specifically. 

At CannaAid, all of our HHC and THC products abide by the 2018 Farm Bill, making them federally legal. We can ship them right to your front door as long as you live somewhere that permits these compounds. 

Is HHC Natural or Synthetic? 

The debate about whether HHC is natural or synthetic is a complex one, as the cannabinoid is technically both. But, even though it may technically show up in tiny amounts within the cannabis plant, any HHC product or extract you see on the market today is 100% synthetic. 

HHC products are synthetic because professionals must rely on laboratories and chemical recreations to create cannabinoid in the first place. It is not present in large enough amounts naturally for extractors to work with; so, instead, they have to create the cannabinoid in a lab. This is why the HHC cannabinoid is considered synthetic. 

When it comes to HHC vs. THC, some people will gravitate towards THC simply because it’s completely natural, while HHC is not. But, for those who are seeking a less intense high than THC brings, HHC may be a better option despite being synthetic. 

How Does HHC Make You Feel? 

It’s important to note that the way that HHC makes you feel is going to vary significantly from person to person. After all, how each person responds to cannabis is different! In general, though, HHC is known for providing a more cerebral, relaxing high that may stimulate the senses quite a bit.

It’s important to note that since HHC is psychoactive, you’re going to find yourself feeling a bit high after consuming it. However, the high tends to be a bit more subtle than your typical THC high, and it’s good for making you feel a bit more stimulated than usual. Still, the highs tend to be pretty mellow overall, making them good for beginners or those with slightly lower tolerances.  

Comparing THC vs. HHC, THC’s highs may be slightly more invigorating. HHC highs are pretty calming, while THC’s can be good for making you feel creative, upbeat, and even motivated. Though, these effects do highly depend on the strain, you can easily find some energizing HHC strains out there, too. 

HHC vs. THC: What Should I Choose? 

When comparing HHC vs. THC, it can be hard to figure out which one is best; but this all depends on what’s ideal for you.

First, you want to think about the experience you want. Are you looking for a very potent high that’s euphoric and potentially stimulating, like THC brings, or are you wanting something more subtle, mellow, and supportive like HHC? 

It’s also important to consider your cannabis tolerance. If you’re not familiar with cannabis products, it might be best to start with HHC over THC because HHC is going to provide more gentle effects than THC. But, if you’re in need of strong results or have a strong tolerance, THC may be the way to go.  

Finally, if you’re trying to decide between HHC and THC, you have to consider what’s legal in your area and what’s not. In some places, HHC products may not be allowed. In others, THC may not be permitted. Thus, double-check the regulations where you live and then make your decision from there.

Is HHC Stronger Than THC? 

If you compare THC vs. HHC, you’ll find that THC—delta-9 THC, specifically—iis going to be stronger than HHC. HHC is stronger than delta-8 THC but not quite as potent as delta-9 THC in terms of potency. It’s a perfect middle-ground or even a step up from the world of D8. 

Because HHC tends to be a bit more subtle than delta-9 THC, it tends to be a wonderful option for those who are still dipping their toes in the world of cannabis. It helps introduce you to the effects of HHC, but it likely won’t overwhelm you as much as delta-9 THC may. 

If you’re thinking about whether or not HHC or THC is right for you, make sure to consider potency! You don’t want to consume an HHC product thinking it’s going to be as strong as a delta 9 product, and you also don’t want to consume THC thinking it’s going to be as subtle as HHC. Instead, keep in mind that HHC, while powerful and psychoactive, isn’t quite as strong as delta-9 THC. 

How Much HHC is Equal to THC? 

It’s difficult to determine exactly how much HHC is equal to THC, as the scientific evidence is a bit inconclusive. People report HHC being anywhere from 70-90% as strong as delta-9 THC, suggesting that you would only have to take a slightly stronger dose than you normally would for a dose of THC. 

If you want to learn how to dose HHC vs. THC, we can help you out a little bit. Usually, a low dose of HHC is going to be about 5-10 mg. If you’re a bit more experienced with cannabis, anywhere from 15-30 mg. should do the trick. And, if you have a very high tolerance, then you can consume even more than that—anywhere from 50 mg. and up. 

Where to Buy HHC vs. THC

In case you want to buy HHC or THC—or maybe both!—CannaAid is the perfect place to turn. 

There are a variety of high-quality HHC and THC products available in our online store. Whether you’re interested in HHC gummies, delta-8 flower, infused blunts, or even a vape cartridge, CannaAid has the perfect product for you. 

Whether you choose HHC or THC, it’s important to note that you’re getting top-shelf products crafted with ultimate care and precision. Each one of our products exceeds our quality-control standards, coming out as pure and potent as possible.

At CannaAid, you can always view the purity and potency of the products you’re interested in by checking out our third-party lab test results. These certificates of analysis (COAs) outline the exact cannabinoid levels within our products as well as whether or not they detected the presence of any impurities. 

Even though our products are made with five-star ingredients, they’re still priced affordably. This way, you have the opportunity to try all the products that appeal to you most—HHC, THC, or something completely different.   

The Bottom Line 

Though they may be relatively similar, when you compare HHC vs. THC, it becomes clear that these two cannabinoids have their differences—and these differences matter!

In order to choose your favorite HHC or THC product, you have to determine which cannabinoid is right for you. Consider things like your tolerance level, desired effects, and experience with cannabis products before determining whether HHC or THC is the best cannabinoid for your daily routine. 

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve answered all of your most frequently asked questions about THC vs. HHC below. 

Is HHC Safe? 

When buying HHC, you want to make sure you’re buying it from reputable brands that use high-quality ingredients. Never buy an HHC (or THC) product without first viewing the product’s COA and analyzing its ingredients, additives, and extraction methods.  

If a company doesn’t offer any of this information about their products, it’s time to move on. HHC and THC are cannabinoids that you can trust if the brand is transparent.

Do HHC Products Show up on Drug Tests?

Yes, HHC is likely to show up on your drug test. The metabolite that is left behind in the body after consuming HHC is the same metabolite that THC leaves behind. Unfortunately, this metabolite—THC-COOH—is also the compound that drug tests are looking for to detect the presence of marijuana. Thus, if you consume HHC products, you will likely test positive for cannabis consumption. 

Stay away from any THC or THC isomers, including HHC, if you know you will be taking a drug test soon. As a result, you may fail your test. Once you’ve passed, you can continue to consume. 

Will HHC Get You High like THC?

Yes, HHC will get you high; however, it may not get you high in the same way that THC does. HHC’s high tends to be a bit more mellow than THC’s, making it good for those seeking more relaxing, cerebral highs. A THC high is very full-bodied and tends to provide very stimulating, upbeat effects. 

It is worth noting that the THC cannabinoid is known for being a bit too stimulating, to the point of causing a bit of side effects in consumers. If you’re someone who is susceptible to adverse effects of THC, HHC may be a better choice, as the high is likely to be more calming than stimulating.

How Long Does an HHC High Last? 

The duration of your HHC high is going to depend on factors such as the product you consumed, your body chemistry, your cannabis tolerance, and your overall dosage. If you consume an HHC edible, you are likely to be high for anywhere from 4-8 hours, with many people finding their peak around 6 hours. However, with a long-lasting high like this, you have to be patient: effects can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to kick in.

If you’re smoking HHC, your high is going to kick in right away but only last for about 1-2 hours, maybe slightly longer if your product is extra concentrated. Inhaling HHC will create short highs, but the highs are potent and rapid. 

Which is Stronger: HHC or THC? 

Comparing HHC vs. THC, THC is going to be stronger. HHC is said to be anywhere from 70-90% as strong as delta-9 THC, so it’s just slightly less powerful than the popular compound. 

However, if you’re used to consuming delta-8 THC, HHC’s effects are going to be a bit stronger than what you’re accustomed to. HHC is more potent than delta-8 THC, but not as potent as delta-9 THC: it falls somewhere right in the middle. 

How Much HHC Should I Smoke?

If you’ve never tried HHC before, you should start by smoking just one small hit and waiting about 15 – 30 minutes to see how the product affects you. Smoking HHC is going to create quick effects, so you don’t have to wait too long to see whether or not you need another puff.

If you’re well-versed in THC, then you’re going to need to smoke a higher amount of HHC to get similar potency to your delta 9 products. You’ll likely need about 1.5 hits of HHC for every one hit of THC to reach equal strength.