The market for psychoactive cannabinoids is constantly changing and new compounds are being discovered every day. It seems like right when you get familiar with one, a new one pops up to take its place, similar to the Greek monster Hydra. But don’t freak out just yet; just like Hercules managed to defeat the mystical beast, we hear at Erth Hemp are here to help you battle through the new cannabinoids and ultimately emerge victorious. Back in May, we went into great detail about what HHC-O is. Today’s article will draw from that previous post and help compare the two cannabinoids to help you decide which one is right for you. Let’s start off with a quick refresher of what HHC is, what HHC-O is, and ultimately figure out which of these two cannabinoids is right is right for you. Let's begin!
What Is HHC?
HHC, short for hydrocannabinol, is one of the most intriguing cannabinoids ever to grace the industry. Back in the 1940s, a Harvard-trained chemist by the name of Roger Adams sought to create a legal alternative to the villainized marijuana. He was the first to successfully saturate THC molecules using hydrogen and a catalyst to create what we now recognize as HHC. Due to its hydrogenated state, HHC was actually more stable and more resistant to breaking down when exposed to oxygen and sunlight.
Some experts argue that since HHC requires hydrogenation and chemical manufacturing to exist, it is classified as a semi-synthetic cannabinoid. Others staunchly maintain that HHC is found naturally in the hemp plant, but similar to Delta-8 THC, only in very small quantities. Regardless of how it was created, as long as federally legal hemp is used in its chemical manufacturing, the HHC cannabinoid is considered legal in compliance with the 2018 Farm Bill.
What Is HHC-O
In one of our previous articles, we touched on what THC-O is and how it compares to other popular cannabinoids. You can read that article to re-familiarize yourself with that information, but THC-O is simply Delta-8 THC that has been infused with acetic anhydride. This colorless yet highly flammable compound forms a strong bond that produces incredibly potent effects. Some users swear that it feels 3x stronger than regular marijuana and 5x stronger than regular Delta-8 THC, but since the effects vary with the individual, you’ll have to make that decision for yourself.
In order to create HHC-O, acetic anhydride is combined with regular HHC. The hydrogen-stabilized compound is then transformed into an even more potent compound that is reported to be nearly 1.5x stronger than regular HHC. It might not seem like much, but since HHC is already significantly more potent that both marijuana and Delta-8 THC, this added boost might just be the high enhancer you’ve been looking for.
What Does HHC-O Feel Like?
The effects of psychoactive cannabinoid vary based on the individual; your age, weight, metabolism, previous exposure to THC, and others all play an important role in how quikly the effects take hold and how long the effects last. That being said, there are many similarities that other psychoactive cannabinoid users have reported in their highs. HHC-O will carry many of the same effects as regular HHC, but due to the increased potency from the acetate, these effects may be more intense.
You can expect to feel an intense sensation of euphoria coupled with deep relaxation. Many users describe the high as hazy yet soothing, almost as if your mind is finally able to uncoil itself from the daily stresses of adulthood. You may experience drowsiness, increased appetite, sharper focus, an enhanced sense of humor, and an overall uplifted mood. Some of the less-enjoyable side effects include nausea, sleeplessness, overactive mind, and others. The key to avoiding these side effects is to start off with small doses. Most manufacturers will list a recommended dosage on either the product packaging or on the brand’s website. Once you understand how your body reacts to specific amounts, you can gradually increase the amount consumed until you’ve found your ideal dose.
Should I Try HHC or HHC-O?
Whenever you’re considering a psychoactive cannabinoid, it’s important to establish what you’re wanting out of the effects. If you’re looking for a way to improve your mood and enhance your creativity, HHC (particularly sativa strains) are great for daytime use and can be an excellent way to overcome procrastination for mundane tasks. If you’re wanting to unwind and relax after a long day, there are many indica-dominant HHC products that can transport you into a state of deep relaxation.
For those who heartily enjoy regular marijuana, HHC-O offers an extremely similar high that still remains within the legal boundaries as set forth by the 2018 Farm Bill. Regular HHC was created as a legal alternative to weed, and while some users swear HHC feels identical to traditional marijuana, you might enjoy an even stronger high with the effects of an HHC-O product. If you’re new to the world of psychoactive cannabinoids, HHC might be the safer compound to start off with until you feel like you’re ready for even more intense high with HHC-O. But if you’re looking for a high that closely aligns to traditional marijuana, HHC-O may be just the psychoactive cannabinoid you’re looking for.
Conclusion
In the world of psychoactive cannabinoids, it might feel intimidating to pick a three-letter acronym and hope for the best. But with just a bit of research and patience, you might be surprised how much hemp-derived psychoactive cannabinoids can help you. HHC used to be the closest you could get to enjoying a high with similar effects as marijuana. Now HHC-O offers an even more authentic feel thanks to its powerful effects; best of all, it’s legal! HHC-O is also easier to obtain, both online and in-store. If you’re curious about HHC and HHC-O but not quite sure where to start, you’re in luck! Here at Erth Hemp, we offer delicious White Peach HHC gummies (also available in a sample size) and smooth HHC disposable vapes in two flavors: Melon Gum and Golden Goat. Our products are crafted with premium ingredients and have been thoroughly tested by independent labs to confirm their purity and potency.
In our next article, we’ll be tackling yet another HHC cannabinoid, this time called HHC-P. Thanks to the marvels of modern science, these psychoactive cannabinoids seem to be here to stay and we’re excited to share our knowledge with you. If you have any questions about the information laid out in this article or about HHC and HHC-O, our team of experts are ready and willing to guide you through the wonderful world of cannabinoids until you feel confident enough to tackle the market on your own! We look forward to hearing from you soon!