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The hemp market has tremendously grown since the former president of the United States signed the 2018 farm bill. It increased demand, leading scientists to seek other potent cannabinoids hemp products to compete in the cannabis industry.
Some of the latest cannabinoids that users have embraced are Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-O), also known as THC O acetate. However, many people wonder which compound to choose and why. So, if you are one of them, here is everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
What Is THC-O?
THC O, also known as THC O acetate, is one of the synthetic cannabinoids derived from hemp compounds. The compound offers users powerful psychoactive effects, including feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Based on anecdotal evidence, THC O acetate is said to be a highly stable compound and more potent than other derivatives of THC, e.g. delta 9 THC and delta 8 THC.
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Is THC-O Derived From Hemp Plant, Or made in Labs Like Other Synthetic Cannabinoids?
Even though THC O is one of the intoxicating cannabinoids, it is not naturally found in hemp plants. However, it is a hemp-derived product extracted from CBD, which undergoes a series of lab processes like other synthetic cannabinoids. Therefore, manufacturers need specialized equipment to produce THC O acetate, which involves using highly flammable and volatile chemicals.
THC O is synthesized through a hydrogenation process that converts hemp-derived CBD to delta 8 THC. Sulfuric acid and acetic anhydride are added to the final solution to produce THC O, which is then purified to remove unwanted impurities. However, it is essential to note that you cannot produce THC O products at home since it involves a hazardous process.
Effects Of Consuming THC-O
When it comes to THC O effects, users term it a psychedelic cannabinoid. Its results are more potent and hit hard compared to delta 9 THC. Also, THC O acetate is highly psychoactive, providing many consumers with a different and “imaginative” view on otherwise mundane, boring things.
Moreover, when taking THC O products, you should note its effects may delay compared to delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC. It might take about 30 minutes to one hour to experience the results because acetate compounds are metabolized differently. Depending on your consumption method, these effects may last 2 to 4 hours. But, THC O may react differently for every individual since bodies are distinctive.
Is THC-O Safe To Consume?
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THC O being one of the new semi-synthetic cannabinoids in the market, but there isn’t a lot of research on this compound. However, no current clinical studies show reports of overdose or death of a user. Therefore, anecdotal reports indicate that consuming THC O products is safe when taken in the right amount.
Furthermore, it is crucial to ensure you purchase THC O products from reputable sellers with pure items that cannot cause adverse effects on your health. You are encouraged to verify that the seller has 3rd-party laboratory test reports that analyze each product.
Will THC-O Show Up on a Drug Test?
The answer is yes; THC O will show on a drug test like delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC. This is because most tests checks for THC metabolites in urine, hair, or blood, so it doesn’t differentiate the fully federally legal or the illegal derivatives.
So, if you are expecting drug tests for work or traveling purposes, it is best to avoid THC products, including THC O acetate.
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What Is The Legality Of THC-O?
The legality of THC O is still a grey area due to the conflicting laws involved. Some states permit its use, while others have restricted the consumption and possession of this cannabinoid.
The Federal Analog Act states that any compound similar to an illegal drug is a schedule 1 under the Controlled Substance Act. With that said, THC O offers a psychedelic experience and contains psychoactive properties, making it illegal under this law. However, according to the Agriculture Improvement Act, hemp-derived products are legal since they have 0.3% THC trace amounts. Consequently, since THC O is extracted from hemp-derived CBD, it is enough proof that it is also legal.
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What Are The Benefits Of THC-O?
THC O acetate is a unique and powerful synthetic cannabinoid that hemp enthusiasts have embraced. Although its research is limited, anecdotal reports that this compound offers therapeutic benefits to its users. Here are some of the beneficial effects of THC O:
It Might enhance Creativity
Like other THC derivatives, THC O offers psychoactive and psychedelic effects that allow users to view the situation from different angles. It may open an individual’s mind and awaken their brain, making them more creative.
So if you engage in creative activities like writing content, painting, or songwriting, you should try taking a dose of THC O regularly since it may help you find a solution, especially when you feel stuck.
It Might Help Relieve Pain
All cannabinoids are said to be capable of eliminating pain since they act on cannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system to regulate signals. Consequently, users take THC O to manage pain caused by cancer and injuries.
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It May Help Eliminate Symptoms associated with stress, anxiety, and depression
Many people have had mental conditions due to various reasons. These illnesses may negatively affect their overall health, preventing them from enjoying everyday life. Thankfully, THC O users report that this compound may offer mind and body relaxation that eliminates unnecessary thoughts that trigger anxiousness.
HHC- What do you need to know?
Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a minor semi-synthetic cannabinoid naturally found in cannabis plants in trace amounts, which makes it non-cost-effective to extract. Although the compound had existed since the 1940s when Roger Adams first synthesized it, HHC is still a lesser-known product. This is why its production is not massive, and users are still skeptical about embracing this close relative to THC molecules.
Is HHC A Naturally Occurring Cannabinoid In A Cannabis Plant?
Yes, HHC is found in cannabis plants, but trace levels make it expensive to extract. Therefore, manufacturers create this compound through a process known as hydrogenation to create sufficient amounts. It involves altering the THC molecules’ physical properties by adding hydrogen, the same method used when turning vegetable oil into margarine.
The hydrogenation process changes the delta 9 THC isomer and replaces it with precisely two hydrogen atoms. This modifies the molecular weight and makes it more stable, which is why HHC has a prolonged shelf life because it is less affected by heat and UV light.
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Can HHC Get You High?
Just like the traditional THC, HHC products can make you high since it has intoxicating effects. The high feeling is characterized by euphoric feelings and elevated mood, which leads to body relaxation.
When you compare HHC to delta 9 THC, its effects are less potent, yet HHC generally has stronger potency than delta 8 THC. Users report that HHC may offer D8 relaxing effects and D9 euphoric effects. However, you should note that different people experience a unique high feeling due to factors like age, weight, tolerance, and method of consumption.
Is HHC Safe To Consume?
HHC is one of the new cannabinoids on the scene; hence research regarding its safety is ongoing. However, based on anecdotal reports, HHC products are safe to consume since they interact with the body similarly to other THC derivatives like delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC.
Nonetheless, it is essential to take HHC products in smaller doses since their potency is high, which might lead to adverse effects. Also, avoid purchasing HHC from unreliable vendors with toxic products to avoid unfavorable results that might jeopardize your health.
Does HHC Result in A Failed Drug Test?
Although scientific research is still limited, HHC manufacturers purport that this cannabinoid doesn’t show on drug tests. This is because Cannabis drug tests check for 11-hydroxy-THC traces in urine, blood, and hair. And according to them, HHC molecules do not metabolize and break down to form a THC metabolite. However, common knowledge is that one should tovoid consuming HHC products when expecting a drug test.
How Can HHC Benefit Your Body And Mind?
Hemp enthusiasts might have already experienced the therapeutic benefits of this hydrogenated THC. But, there are still other results that scientists are yet to discover about HHC. Here are several benefits users get from HHC products:
It May Help Elevate Mood
HHC is said to offer euphoric effects to users that may help uplift their spirits. It works by activating CB1 re, changing the user’s perception. So, if you have been looking for natural substances to elevate your mood, you should try HHC products.
It May Treat Insomnia
Many factors cause an unhealthy sleeping pattern, like stress and pain. HHC products might help your mind unwind by eliminating thoughts that might be bothering you. As a result, you can enjoy a night of uninterrupted sleep, helping you wake up feeling fresh and re-energized.
It May Help Relieve Pain
According to research, HHC contains analgesic properties that may help relieve pain. Whether it’s an injury or you are suffering from chronic diseases, taking HHC products may reduce pain sensitivity.
HHC is an anti-Cancer Agent
A 2010 review shows that HHC is an anti-cancer agent that might prevent tumor angiogenesis and cell proliferation. The cannabinoid suppresses tumor growth by regulating signaling pathways.
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Significant Differences Between THC-O And HHC
THC O and HHC are both potent cannabinoids in the cannabis industry. However, it is essential to understand each compound to help you make the right choice.
History
When it comes to the origin of these two chemicals, THC O acetate is a synthetic cannabinoid that doesn’t occur in cannabis plants. Manufacturers convert CBD derived from hemp and modify it through a hydrogenation process.
On the other hand, you can find HHC naturally in cannabis plants, but in small amounts making it commercially unviable to direct it. So, scientists make HHC in labs by adding hydrogen atoms to delta 8 THC.
Chemical Structure
Tetrahydrocannabinol is one of the acetylated versions of THC. It has a similar chemical structure to THC, delta 9 THC, and delta 8 THC. Then HHC is a hydrogenated THC, and its carbon bond has been replaced with hydrogen atoms.
Manufacturing Process
The production processes of THC are unique and different. To make THC o acetate, manufacturers extract hemp-derived CBD, which is first converted to delta 8 THC. Then, they mix it with sulfuric acid and acetic anhydride to make the final solution.
On the contrary, HHC is manufactured by converting delta 8 THC by adding hydrogen atoms with catalysts like rhodium, nickel, iridium, and palladium.
Potency
THC-O acetate is three times more potent than delta 9 THC and five times stronger than delta 8 THC. HHC is more potent than delta 8 and less active than delta 9, meaning THC O has a higher potency than HHC.
Effects
While both THC O and HHC offer plenty of therapeutic benefits to the user, each has unique effects. THC o provides highly potent psychedelic and euphoric results than HHC. In contrast, HHC provides a mild high feeling to cannabis users, but it is one of the stable compounds, hence a longer shelf life.
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THC-O Or HHC – What’s the verdict?
THC o acetate and HHC are both newer cannabinoids in the hemp-derived market. They both benefit the users, which is why scientists have found ways to manufacture them. With that said, choosing between HHC and THC O will only depend on the effects you are looking for.
Moreover, it is advisable to try THC O and HHC and see which product works best for your body. However, ensure you start on small doses and gradually increase consumption until you get the desired results.
Final Thoughts
Cannabis products have been used for years to manage various conditions like pain, insomnia, stress, depression, and anxiety. Due to the benefits it offers users, new cannabinoids like HHC and THC O have emerged in the market. As a result, users have been wondering which cannabinoid they should take and which is best for them. These tips will help you choose the perfect compound that will provide you with a fantastic experience of cannabinoids.
References
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20950604/
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Hexahydrocannabinol#section=Coronavirus-Studies
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20950604/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28826543/
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/congressional-testimony/hemp-production-and-2018-farm-bill-07252019
