From Hemp to Hexahydrocannabinol: How HHC is Made

Although Roger Adams discovered Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) in 1940, it’s only recently that this intoxicating cannabinoid has become relatively well-known in the cannabis industry. It is part of the new wave of “minor” cannabinoids, such as delta-8 THC, THCO, and THCP.

While estimates vary, HHC is believed to be halfway between delta 8 and delta 9 regarding potency. Thus, it could be useful for anyone looking for a slightly milder experience than D9.

As HHC is only available in tiny amounts in the Cannabis sativa plant, it’s not worth the cost of extraction. Instead, manufacturers combine natural compounds from the hemp plant with advanced laboratory processes. In this blog post, I explore how HHC is made and compare the production process and properties of the cannabinoid with delta 9 THC.

The HHC Production Process

We first need to visit the hemp fields, as this is where HHC is “born.” As you probably know, hemp is grown and harvested for its high CBD content, and we ensure that our cannabidiol products come from the world’s best hemp. Legally speaking, Cannabis sativa plants must have a maximum delta 9 THC content of 0.3% to be classified as hemp. Plants with more than this THC concentration are considered “marijuana,” which remains a federally illegal substance.

After harvesting, growers dry and process the hemp plants to prepare them for phase two.

Extracting CBD

CO2 extraction (which is what we use) is considered the best way to extract cannabidiol and other vital compounds from hemp plants. This extraction method preserves the cannabinoid’s integrity without leaving harmful residues.

Ethanol extraction is another option. It involves dissolving compounds and separating them from the plant matter. While this option is cost-effective, producers must take great care to ensure no harmful residual solvent. Ultimately, the extraction process creates CBD concentrate, a highly purified form used in hydrogenation.

Hydrogenation

This is the process that turns CBD into HHC. In the food industry, this chemical reaction hardens vegetable oils into margarine! When cannabinoids are involved, hydrogenation changes their chemical structure, resulting in a more stable and unique compound.

CBD’s molecular structure contains double bonds, which make it less stable over time. Thanks to hydrogenation, these double bonds are replaced with hydrogen atoms, which saturate the molecule and ensure it is more resistant to degradation caused by heat, light, or oxygen exposure.

Here’s a quick look at the hydrogenation process:

• First, the manufacturer places CBD concentrate into a reaction chamber.
• Next, a catalyst, typically a metal such as nickel, rhodium, or palladium, is included to accelerate the reaction.
• The manufacturer then introduces hydrogen gas under controlled temperature and pressure conditions. This aims to facilitate the attachment of hydrogen atoms to the CBD molecule.
• Careful monitoring is required as the mixture is exposed to the hydrogen gas for several hours.
• The catalyst is removed during filtration, and rotary evaporation eliminates any solvents used.

Once the manufacturer completes the hydrogenation process, the mixture contains HHC and other byproducts, which must be removed via purification (filtration or distillation). Some companies may use advanced chromatography techniques to isolate HHC and separate it from unwanted compounds.

Testing & Quality Assurance

Finally, each HHC batch is subjected to strict testing to meet regulatory and quality standards. Third-party labs analyze the cannabinoid profile and check for contaminants such as residual solvents, pesticides, and heavy metals.

How Does HHC Differ from Delta 9 THC?

HHC has similarities with delta 9 THC, the intoxicating cannabinoid found in abundance in the marijuana plant. For instance, both compounds cause intoxication and have an array of possible benefits. However, there are plenty of important differences, which I briefly analyze below.

Chemical Structure and Effects

The hydrogenation process adds hydrogen atoms to the cannabinoid molecule, creating HHC. Because of its greater resistance to light, heat, and oxygen exposure, HHC is more stable than D9.

Delta 9 THC has double bonds in its molecular chain, which can break down over time, causing the cannabinoid to degrade into CBN. Therefore, you can expect HHC products to have a longer shelf life than their delta-9 counterparts.

Regarding the ‘high,’ it’s estimated that HHC is approximately 70-80% as potent as delta 9. While D9 may result in euphoria and increased creativity, it can also cause side effects such as anxiety and paranoia. By contrast, HHC’s lower potency means such adverse effects are less likely.

Production

HHC is synthesized from CBD extracted from hemp through hydrogenation. This process requires advanced laboratory equipment and expertise, making HHC production more complex than Delta-9 THC extraction.

D9 is far easier to produce since it’s found in significant quantities in marijuana plants. Thus, manufacturers can use CO2 or ethanol extraction to access the cannabinoid. Moreover, it’s possible to use “isomerization” to convert CBD into delta 9.

Legality

The laws surrounding delta 9 in the United States are straightforward. It is a federally controlled substance, although it is legal in states that allow recreational marijuana use or have medical marijuana programs.

HHC’s legality is trickier. Assuming that the manufacturing process involves the use of CBD taken from hemp (with products containing no more than 0.3% delta 9 THC), it is technically compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill. As such, HHC is legal. However, a growing number of states have issued bans on the compound. Check your local laws to learn more.

Effects

Research into the effects of HHC remains in its infancy. According to anecdotal reports, it could help users manage pain symptoms and potentially possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Users seeking a less intense high than what they experience from marijuana may enjoy the balanced and relaxing high provided by HHC.

There is significantly more research into the possible benefits of delta 9 THC as there are thousands of studies into the effects of marijuana. Indeed, a significant majority of American states have legalized medical marijuana. It could help with issues such as chronic pain, appetite loss, and nausea. The FDA has even approved pharmaceutical drugs, such as Marinol, that contain a synthetic form of delta 9 THC.

Ultimately, those who want a more potent, intoxicating experience tend to opt for D9. It has versatile effects, with some users finding it relaxing, while others believe that certain marijuana strains give them energy and heighten their creativity level.

HHC and Delta 9 THC: A Tale of Two Cannabinoids

HHC and Delta-9 THC are two cannabinoids with distinct identities, offering unique experiences and benefits to users. While cannabis lovers may stick with D9, HHC is emerging as a viable alternative for individuals seeking milder intoxicating effects and a more stable cannabinoid.

As you can see, the HHC manufacturing process takes time, effort, and money. However, each step is necessary to ensure consumers enjoy a high-quality cannabinoid product.