The growing influence of the cannabinoid market has provided cannabis users with too many options. And, it can be difficult to keep up with everything everywhere all at once. With new products being launched every day, it does get overwhelming for users to make a firm choice. The beginning of everything is to choose the right compound that meets your criteria. While choosing a compound, you need to be clear about what you wish to gain from your experience. For cannabinoid users, Delta 9, Delta 8, and HHC are go-to compounds.
Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC are popular THCs, whereas Delta-9-THC being the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. HHC, meanwhile, is a newer cannabinoid that is still being studied.
In this blog, we will break down everything about these three compounds and how they are different from one another.
What is Delta 9?
Delta 9 THC or Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp plants.
Cannabis and hemp plants have over 100 cannabinoids, with each affecting the body in a different way. Two of the most known cannabinoids are cannabidiol(CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is responsible for producing the high in the body. The most abundant form of THC is Delta 9, thereby, making it the most potent compound among all.
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The consumption of Delta 9 in the body creates many mind-altering effects including giddiness, relaxation, and increased creative focus among others.
Since Delta 9 is known for its intense psychoactive properties, it is important for users to regulate its dosage. Beginners are recommended to start with a low dose and gradually experiment to get the high that works for them.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 THC is one of the most-studied and well-researched forms of cannabinoids. It is not as potent as Delta 9 and could be more suitable for more people who are looking for a moderate “high”.
Delta-8 THC is a rare cannabinoid and only occurs in small amounts in hemp plants. Therefore, most Delta 8 THC products are synthetically produced.
Some Delta 8 THC effects are quite similar to Delta 9 THC, including heightened relaxation and increased appetite. It is less potent high than delta-9 THC but you can go on with your daily activities after consuming Delta 8 THC as its effects are milder.
Read More: The Entourage Effect: How Different Cannabinoids Work Together in Hemp
What is HHC?
HHC or Hexahydrocannabinol is a hydrogenated form of THC. It is a minor cannabinoid and occurs naturally in cannabis in small amounts. Since it has low production, it is commercially produced by altering the chemistry of molecules. Like other rare cannabinoids, commercial HHC is also formed from hemp-derived CBD in a laboratory by scientists who can control its properties through chemical processes.
HHC is no THC but it does produce similar psychoactive effects. This cannabinoid has stronger relaxing effects than THC, rather than stimulating.
What’s the difference between Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 THC, and HHC?
Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 THC, and HHC have the same origin. All three cannabinoids can be derived from cannabis and hemp plants. Both Delta 8 THC and HHC are rare compounds and are synthetically produced for their commercial consumption.
Each cannabinoid consists of the same elements — carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. However, their chemical structure makes them stand apart from each other. The key difference, as observed by researchers, in these three cannabinoids is the presence of double bonds in their chemical structure. While Delta 9 THC has a double bond at the 9th position, Delta 8 has it at the eighth position. Meanwhile, a double bond is non-existent in HHC.
This minute difference in their structure creates a huge impact on their functioning.
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Potency comparison
Each of these compounds has different psychoactive effects. Delta 9 is the most powerful of all when it comes to potency. HHC is slightly stronger than Delta 8 THC but it is less potent than Delta 9 THC. HHC is a good option for those who wish to experience the in-between effects of Delta 9 and Delta 8 siblings.
Legal Status comparison
Delta 8 THC and HHC are legal in 38 states, while Delta 9 is legal in 16 states. The 2018 Farm Bill makes all products made with hemp extracts that contained no more than 0.3% THC legal. This makes all these compounds legal in all states. However, some states have opted to regulate the use of Delta 9 independently by putting restrictions on its sale and purchase in place.
How long does Delta 9, Delta 8, and HHC last in your system?
The length of time that Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 THC, and HHC stay in your body depends on various factors, including dose, frequency of use, the potency of the compound, method of consumption, and your personal biology,
In heavy users, Delta 9 THC can be detected in urine for up to 30 days. For occasional users, the duration can range from 2-7 days.
Delta 8 THC can be detected in urine for up to 3-5 days after consumption. In blood, it may be detected for up to 48-72 hours.
There is limited information available on the detection window of HHC, but some reports suggest it is likely to remain in the system somewhere between 2 and 30 days
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Final Thoughts on Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 THC and HHC
On the whole, Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 THC, and HHC are eccentric in their own ways. To know more about these interesting compounds, we recommend you get first-hand experience and choose your pick. The three cannabinoids are available in a wide range of varieties which you can check out at D8 Gas.