Does HHC Cause a High?

We’re not going to beat around the bush here. Yes, HHC can make you feel high.
Chemically, the HHC compound is very similar to THC, which is, of course, the compound in cannabis that produces a high.
However, the slight structural difference in HHC (it has two extra hydrogen atoms, but more on that later) means it is less potent than THC.
So, what can you expect to feel when you try an HHC product?
Let’s discuss.
How High Will You Get From HHC?
The answer to this question is easy: it depends.
How high you get from HHC will depend on a lot of different factors, one of which is how much and how often you use cannabis.
If you’re a seasoned cannabis user and your body has built up a tolerance to THC, you’ll probably not feel much from a low dose of HHC.
If you’re new to cannabis, however, then even a small dose of HHC will probably make you feel a little.. ‘elevated.’
That said, everyone’s body and internal chemistry are different, and this is particularly true when talking about the effects of laboratory-synthesized cannabinoids (such as HHC) on the body.
Also, we’ve had some people say HHC is actually more potent than THC products they’ve used.
But in general, HHC is considered to be about 75–80% as potent as delta 9 THC.
Where Does HHC Come From?
A lot of people think HHC is made in a lab or that it’s some sort of ‘fake’ THC. This is only partially true.
HHC is, for the most part, made in a lab, but it’s incorrect and naive to say that HHC is ‘fake THC.’ The two are completely different compounds, and as such, they produce different effects on the body and mind.
It’s also untrue to say that HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) is strictly synthesized in labs because it does, in fact, occur naturally in cannabis. However, it does so in virtually negligible quantities.
For this reason, the process of making commercially available HHC products begins with the extraction of CBD from hemp. The CBD is then hydrogenated—a process that adds two hydrogen atoms to the CBD compound.
What Does the Hydrogenation Process Do?
Adding two hydrogen atoms to a CBD molecule produces the molecular formula C21H32O2—the formula for HHC.
This means that a single molecule of HHC contains 21 carbon atoms, 32 hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms.
Strangely, the presence of the two extra hydrogens cuts the potency of HHC by approximately a quarter, according to estimates, at least in comparison to full-strength THC.
With this in mind, let’s discuss briefly how to dose HHC to produce effects that are most consistent with your goals.
How to Dose HHC Properly
Like any new cannabis product, you’ll want to start with a low amount of HHC and adjust from there. As we said earlier, some people claim HHC is actually more potent than THC. These people represent a minority of HHC users, but there have been more than a few who have made the claim.
Regardless, whatever HHC product you’re using should come with reference to a single dose listed on the product label.
We highly advise starting with half a dose. Wait several hours, gauge the effects, and then adjust your dose accordingly the following day.
Never take multiple doses of HHC—or any unfamiliar cannabis product—within a 24-hour period.
In terms of milligram dosing, we generally use the following structure to guide new users when it comes to optimal HHC dosing:
- New Users: New or first-time HHC users should keep their first dose under 10 mg (preferably in the 5-7 mg range).
- Novice Users: If you’re a relatively frequent cannabis user, you can probably get away with an HHC dose of about 10-20 mg.
- Avid Users: If you’re an experienced cannabis user, you can probably start with a single dose of HHC in the 25 mg range. From there, work your way up or down until you start to achieve the precise effects you’re looking for.
Also, remember that HHC is generally only about three-quarters as strong as THC or thereabouts.
The Nature of the HHC High: What to Expect
Most people describe HHC as being a sort of ‘lite’ version of full-strength THC. The effects themselves are very similar, only subdued by a less potent experience.
Depending on what you’re looking for, this may actually be a good thing. There is a massive population of cannabis users who want to experience the health benefits and uplifting effects of THC but on a milder level. If this sounds like you, then HHC might be right up your alley.
It’s also worth pointing out that HHC will probably make you feel extremely calm, relaxed, and even fatigued, so don’t expect to feel overly social or full of energy after consuming a dose.
Many people also describe the feeling of HHC as euphoric, but not to the extent that one cannot remain in control of one’s thoughts and actions.
HHC: It’s Not As Strong as Delta 9 THC, But It Packs a Punch
It’s hard to believe that two hydrogen atoms can produce such significant differences in terms of effects on the mind, but that is exactly the case with HHC. The compound provides many of the same effects as THC (e.g., lowers anxiety, improves sleep, reduces pain, etc.), albeit without the powerful high.
Again, however, this isn’t to say that HHC doesn’t get you high. It can, and it most likely will make you feel a little elevated.
This is why we always tell customers to start out low and adjust their dosing until they find a suitable and enjoyable balance.
Lastly, remember that since HHC is made from hemp (which is legal in the USA), HHC products can be ordered online and shipped directly to your home. However, please check the specific HHC laws in your state before considering a purchase.