Whether you’re a seasoned hemp consumer or just exploring the plant for the first time, HHC-O may be something you’ve never heard of before. It has psychotropic properties and is a largely undiscovered cannabinoid. We also have Delta 8, Delta 10, and THC-O, all of which have psychoactive effects, so this is not a novel finding. Furthermore, all of these products are completely legal because they are derived from hemp and consist of less than .3% of delta-9 THC.
Let’s first familiarize ourselves with Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), from which HHC-O is derived. In the process of hydrogenating THC, HHC is created. HHC-O is the result of adding an acetyl group to HHC. Cannabidiol isolated from hemp has psychotropic qualities, meaning it can cause changes in one’s state of mind, actions, and perceptions. In addition, this cannabinoid has been shown to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-pain, and sedative properties [1].
In this article, we will explore the uses and benefits of HHC-O and delve further into its chemistry. But before that, let’s understand what HHC-O actually is.
What is HHC-O?
HHC-O is a novel cannabidiol that is manufactured in an environmentally responsible way from hemp. The hydrogenated cannabinoid HHC-O, unlike the naturally occurring cannabinoids in hemp like Delta-8, binds to a distinct set of receptors. Hydrogenation has the benefit of imparting molecular stability. It is speculated that HHC-O is metabolized similarly to Delta 9 THC in the human body. Many people claim that HHC-O is more powerful than Delta-8 and Delta-10.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) undergoes hydrogenation, in which hydrogen is added to the molecule. The result of this procedure is cannabis with a substantially longer shelf life and greater stability. In addition to its role in the creation of cannabinoids, hydrogenation has a number of other applications. One such product is margarine, which is made by hydrogenating vegetable oils. The “-O” in HHC-O comes from the addition of an acetyl group after HHC has been produced. The bioavailability of a cannabinoid is improved by the addition of the acetyl group, represented by the “-O,” which speeds up and expands the cannabinoid’s absorption into the body.
How Does HHC-O Work?
Endocannabinoids are the opioids that humans naturally make. Compounds like this bind to Cannabinoid-1 (CB1) and Cannabinoid-2 (CB2) receptors in the endocannabinoid system, helping to keep things in check.
HHC-O, like other cannabinoids, can behave like endogenous cannabinoids by binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors and thereby sending signals that promote health and homeostasis. HHC-O is absorbed and has effects in the body like Delta-9 THC and Delta-8 THC; however, it does not have as much of a delayed onset as THC-O. Because of its high binding affinity for the CB1 and CB2 receptors, this cannabinoid generates effects that are comparable to those of other types of THC. Psychotropic effects of HHC-O include elevating mood, decreasing stress, and causing complete physical relaxation according to user reports.
Effects Of HHC-O On Your Body
Although more research is needed, HHC-O appears to have psychotropic qualities, and its common user reported effects include sedation, sleep, and reduced anxiety.
Relaxes Your Muscles
Muscle relaxation and pain relief are two common uses for HHC-O. It’s possible that taking HHC-O can cause you to feel calm and relaxed in body and mind, allowing you to unwind and let go of stress [2]. You may have a different reaction to HHC-O goods than other people do because of this. It’s recommended to see a doctor before incorporating HHC-O into your daily routine.
Improves Your Appetite
HHC-O, like many other cannabinoids, may help reduce inflammation and increase appetite [3]. Endocannabinoids have been shown to play a typical function in the regulation of food motivation, according to recent advances in the biochemistry and pharmacology of endocannabinoid systems. The development of specific cannabinoid receptor agonists and antagonists has sparked hope for more effective treatments for eating and weight-related disorders, including those involving the suppression of appetite to reduce our propensity for overeating foods high in calories, as well as those involving reduced appetite and weight loss.
Stabilizes Your Mood
One possible benefit of HHC-O is a reduction in stress and an improvement in disposition. This posiitve impact may be due to the CB1 receptor affinity of psychoactive cannabinoids like HHC-O and THC-O. Since these receptors play a role in the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which helps to maintain homeostasis, the interaction between psychoactive cannabinoids and these receptors may contribute to the euphoric effects of cannabinoids [4].
Intake Forms Of HHC-O
HHC-O comes as oils, tinctures, pills, foods, liquids, and creams. HHC-O products combine terpenes and cannabinoids for optimal effectiveness [5].
Edibles
To taste HHC-O in a subtle manner, try one of many edible forms, such as gummies or confectionaries. HHC-O is absorbed into the body in this form via the digestive system. Within an hour to two hours, you will start feeling the effects of edibles. Edibles have a longer half-life (about six to eight hours) than some other HHC-O administration techniques.
Oils/Tinctures
Because of their portability, tinctures and oils have become increasingly common delivery systems for HHC-O. The oil is most effectively absorbed by the capillaries if you insert the required dose under your tongue with the dropper and keep it there for at least 60 seconds. When the timer goes off, let the HHC-O oil dissolve in your mouth. You might expect to feel the benefits of a tincture or oil within 15 to 20 minutes after taking it. Many users claim the effects linger anywhere from four to six hours.
Smoking/Vaping
Smoking or vaping HHC-O is convenient because it allows for more bioavailability, meaning more of the HHC-O is absorbed into the body than in other forms, such as edibles. Smokable goods provide HHC-O straight to the bloodstream via the lungs. Effects from smoking HHC-O can be felt in as little as 10–15 minutes and can linger for up to four hours.
Is HHC-O Legal?
Thanks to the Farm Bill that Congress passed in 2018, the usage of HHC-O is now permitted by US law [6]. It specifies that items made from hemp are acceptable. So, it’s safe to state that it’s within the law now. We also can’t predict the legal status of cannabis in the future, so it’s in your best interest to enjoy them now while you still can.
Takeaway
To sum it up, HHCO is the finest cannabinoid available in the hemp market right now. Not only does it offer health benefits, but it also lasts longer in your bloodstream, thus prolonging the refreshing effect. Before you buy any edibles or smokables, make sure that you choose the product that suits you the best.
References
- Elikkottil, Jaseena, et al. “The Analgesic Potential of Cannabinoids.” Journal of Opioid Management, vol. 5, no. 6, 2009, pp. 341–57, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3728280/.
- Shannon, Scott. “Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series.” The Permanente Journal, vol. 23, 2019, 10.7812/tpp/18-041.
- Kirkham, Tim C. “Cannabinoids and Appetite: Food Craving and Food Pleasure.” International Review of Psychiatry, vol. 21, no. 2, Jan. 2009, pp. 163–171, 10.1080/09540260902782810.
- National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, et al. “Mental Health.” Nih.gov, National Academies Press (US), 12 Jan. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425748/.
- Raz, Noa, et al. “Optimal Treatment with Cannabis Extracts Formulations Is Gained via Knowledge of Their Terpene Content and via Enrichment with Specifically Selected Monoterpenes and Monoterpenoids.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), vol. 27, no. 20, 15 Oct. 2022, p. 6920, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36296511/, 10.3390/molecules27206920. Accessed 19 Nov. 2022.
- Abernethy, Amy. “Hemp Production and the 2018 Farm Bill.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 25 July 2019, www.fda.gov/news-events/congressional-testimony/hemp-production-and-2018-farm-bill-07252019.