HHC vs. CBD: Similarities, Differences and Effects
19 years ago, during the height of the CBD market craze, hemp was used for pretty much one thing and one thing only: to make CBD products.
As the hemp industry continues to evolve at a mind-boggling rate, we’re seeing more and more types of products come from this highly versatile plant.
One such product is HHC. In this blog article, we discuss HHC vs. CBD and how the compounds are different from – and similar to – one another.
What’s the Difference Between HHC and CBD?
HHC and CBD are compounds known as cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are produced naturally by the hemp plant. When consumed, they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system in various ways.
As you probably know, CBD (cannabidiol) occurs naturally and is plentiful in hemp. HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) also occurs naturally but in far lower quantities.
In fact, the amount of naturally occurring HHC in hemp is negligible.
In order to make HHC products, manufacturers first extract CBD from hemp, just like they do when they make CBD products. The extracted CBD then undergoes a chemical process called hydrogenation, which converts the CBD compound into HHC.
In other words, CBD is used to synthetically make HHC.
Similar Compounds, Different Effects
Even though CBD is used to make HHC, the two compounds have very different effects. CBD, as you probably know, does not produce mind-altering effects. HHC, on the other hand, does.
This is because the molecular structure of HHC is very similar to that of THC – the mind-altering compound in cannabis.
During the hydrogenation process, two extra hydrogen atoms are added to the CBD compound to produce HHC.
Believe it or not, these two hydrogen atoms are enough to produce dramatically different effects when it comes to CBD vs. HHC.
The biggest difference, as we said, is that HHC is considered an intoxicating compound. In other words, most people experience a euphoric high when they consume it. CBD, of course, has no such euphoric effects.
CBD vs. HHC: What About Similarities?
Even though HHC gets you high and CBD doesn’t, the two compounds share similar therapeutic effects. For instance, they both reportedly work well to help alleviate stress and anxiety, as well as reduce pain.
In fact, in a recent study that surveyed over 100 HHC users, most people said HHC was helpful when it came to dealing with anxiety and pain. The survey also claimed HHC was useful in helping people relax and enjoy a feeling of euphoria.
Another similarity between HHC and CBD is their potential to help with sleep. There are loads of sleep-specific CBD products (many of which contain melatonin as an added ingredient), and we’re starting to see sleep-focused HHC products as well.
However, even without the addition of melatonin and other compounds, both HHC and CBD are reported to help improve sleep on their own due to the naturally calming and relaxing effects of the compounds.
Potential Side Effects of HHC and CBD
A thorough discussion of HHC vs. CBD would not be complete without talking about potential side effects.
Indeed, both CBD and HHC have the potential to cause unwanted effects, especially if over-consumed.
The most significant side effect is paranoia from over-consuming HHC. As we’ve said, HHC products do have the potential to produce a high. For inexperienced cannabis users who aren’t familiar with the feeling of being high, this can cause a state of panicked anxiety and even paranoia.
Of course, the high will subside over time. But if you’re not ready for it, the feeling can be overwhelming.
Additional side effects of both HHC and CBD can include fatigue and sleepiness. Depending on the product’s intended use, this can either have a negative or positive effect.
In any event, it is important to be conscious of the fact that HHC and CBD can make you feel tired and lethargic.
In less common instances, both HHC and CBD have been known to cause feelings of nausea and upset stomach.
If you’re using either of these products for the first time, it is recommended that you start with a small dose to gauge how your body will respond.
HHC Versus CBD: Same Plant, Different Effects
To summarize, the biggest difference between CBD and HHC is that HHC produces a mild high, while CBD does not. Keep this in mind if you’re considering trying an HHC product.
Both compounds are natural byproducts of hemp, however, which means both HHC and CBD products are legal in certain American states, although CBD is far more widely available. Additionally, both HHC and CBD are commonly used to help achieve a sense of calm, relaxation, and stress reduction. For some individuals, the compounds may prove useful in helping reduce pain as well.
If you’re looking for something natural to help improve your sleep, ease stress and anxiety, and/or help with pain, both HHC and CBD are options. If you want to avoid any sensation of being high, CBD is probably the route you want to take. If you’re looking for a mild ‘uplifting’ or euphoric effect, however, it may be worth trying HHC instead.
Thanks for reading, and best of luck on your personal journey to health, happiness, and mindfulness.
