HHC vs. Delta-8 THC: What’s the Difference?
All-natural, hemp-derived cannabinoids are changing the way people think about hemp. There’s now a wide range of hemp products available for customers to choose from—HHC and Delta-8 are just two of them.
Many people are comparing the two products. And some aren’t quite sure how they’re different. In this article, we’ll discuss the differences between HHC and Delta-8, including their benefits, effects, and availability.
What is HHC?
HHC is short for hexahydrocannabinol. It’s a compound many consider to be the most stable version of THC because it’s resistant to heat and UV radiation.
Plus, it has a significantly longer shelf life than THC. That’s because manufacturers saturate the molecule with hydrogen atoms to substantially improve its shelf life without impacting the effect profile too dramatically.
Cannabinoids in their natural state attach to cannabinoid receptors in the body. This allows a chemical reaction to take place, triggering regulatory actions that balance the functions of our bodily systems.
However, the body doesn’t fully absorb these substances, which means you don’t get the full effect, even in high doses.
On the other hand, HHC has the potential to make cannabinoids more bioavailable. In other words, the cannabinoids better absorb into the bloodstream, and therefore, they are more likely to produce a powerful effect.
HHC can provide a higher bioavailability because the process of forming the compound makes it more resilient to heat and light, which cause cannabinoids to degrade.
As of now, the availability of HHC is limited. The only real HHC products on the market are in the form of vape cartridges. However, we predict HHC will become more available in the future (including at Burman’s!) given the fact that manufacturers can apply the hydrogenation process to any existing cannabinoid-based product on the hemp market.
What is Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC (or Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that’s present (in trace amounts) in hemp and cannabis plants. It’s similar to Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-9-THC), which is the main compound in marijuana that produces a psychoactive effect. Delta-8 THC works the same way as Delta-9 THC and is roughly two-thirds the potency milligram for milligram.
Unlike HHC, Delta-8 THC is more available on the market. You can find it at gas stations, convenience stores, weed and vape shops, and online. It’s also available in a wide range of forms, from gummies and candies to oils and tinctures.
What’s the Difference Between HHC and Delta-8 THC?
HHC and Delta-8 THC are quite similar, yet the two compounds are very different.
Essentially, HHC is THC, meaning that the two compounds are relatively identical when it comes to their molecular structure.
However, HHC doesn’t contain any double bonds in its structure. That’s because, during the manufacturing process, hydrogenation breaks down and replaces the double bonds already found in THC. Also, Delta-8 lacks an ester atom and a carbon bond.
These molecular differences are what contribute to HHC’s greater stability and longer shelf life.
HHC vs. Delta-8 THC: What Are Their Effects and Benefits?
Delta-8 THC can create a smooth and subtle high that’s both relaxing and uplifting. The buzz will be similar to HHC, but less potent. HHC can induce a euphoric psychoactive effect, similar to Delta-8. However, HHC often has more relaxing and sedative effects in comparison to Delta-8.
Benefits of using Delta-8 THC:
- Calms nausea
- Increases appetite
- Provides pain relief
- Boosts mental health
- Prevents vomiting during cancer treatments
- Reduces anxiety
Benefits of using HHC:
- Strong mental and body experience
- May help manage chronic pain
- May promote better sleep quality
- May alleviate nausea or vomiting
- Provides calming properties (anxiolytic)
HHC or Delta-8 THC: Which is Better?
Now that you know more about HHC and Delta-8 THC and how they’re different, you might be wondering which is better. The answer will depend on your individual preferences. For example, if you prefer a stronger high, HHC may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you want to experience a more relaxing effect, Delta-8 THC may be the better option.
Don’t know how to choose? Let us help! At Burman’s Health Shop, we offer our customers a simple path to find safer, natural solutions with our CBD and THC products. Reach out today for more information.
