The hemp-derived cannabinoid industry has taken the West by storm. Today, even consumers in states without legalized medical or recreational cannabis can reap the benefits of those same highly sought-after cannabis compounds, so long as they come from hemp plants containing less than 0.3% THC by dry weight.
Of course, this includes major cannabinoids like CBD and THC; minor, up-and-coming cannabinoids like CBG and CBN; and a number of emerging cannabinoids including HHC.
HHC is one of the newest cannabinoids to hit the market, which may leave new consumers with a number of questions surrounding its use before they decide to take the leap. Knowing how much to take is one of the most important pieces of the puzzle.
If you’re looking into venturing into HHC, we’ve got everything you need to know about the new cannabinoid, including dosage and more! Let’s dig in.
Key Takeaways
- HHC is a new cannabis, produced from delta-9 THC is hydrogenated.
- HHC is considered to be more potent than delta-8 THC but less potent than delta-9 THC.
- While there are some good benchmarks to consider when it comes to HHC dosage, all people are different, and the proper dose is dependent on a variety of factors.
What is HHC?
HHC is one of the many naturally occurring compounds found in hemp and cannabis plants. It’s found in very small amounts in pollen and seeds, but new developments within the cannabis industry have allowed us to easily extract this compound from plants to use in different products.
To maximize HHC yields, harvesters hydrogenate delta-9 THC, which then turns to HHC. HHC is a form of THC, but it does not act in the same way as delta-8 or delta-9 THC. HHC is not as potent as delta-9 THC, but it packs more of a punch than delta-8 THC, making it a great option for folks looking for a middle ground.
It is also a precursor cannabinoid, acting as the base of other popular cannabinoids like HHC-O and HHC-P, which start as HHC and then are chemically altered to turn into different, more potent cannabinoids.
As a new cannabinoid, it’s also especially important that consumers ensure they seek out high-quality, safe HHC from reputable brands.
Navigating HHC Dosages
When you’re trying any new cannabinoid, or substance as a whole, it’s always important to start slow and work your way up. Even if you already use cannabis and expect your tolerance will be able to handle a sturdy dose of HHC, you don’t necessarily know how your body is going to handle a new cannabis compound until you try it.
Of course, every person is different and there are exceptions, but here is a general guideline for HHC edible dosage:
Beginners: Between 5 to 12 mg
Intermediate: Between 12 to 30 mg
Experienced: 30 mg+
HHC can also become less effective after reaching a high enough dose, though again, this threshold varies depending on the person.
HHC is often thought of as a slightly lighter version of delta-9 THC, around 90% as powerful, so you can always start small and increase the dosage gradually until you feel comfortable.
Remember that edibles can take anywhere from 45 minutes to several hours to fully kick in. Inhalables like vaporizers and flower, however, can be felt within minutes, so trying HHC this way may be a quicker way to figure out how your body interacts with the cannabinoid.
Factors to Consider When Dosing HHC
When it comes to taking HHC, a handful of variables may influence your use. Keep these elements in mind as you figure out your ideal HHC dosage.
THC Tolerance
Your personal experience and tolerance to THC is one of the most crucial factors in dosing HHC, as HHC contains THC and offers a similar experience. While that is not to say that you should automatically start with a high dosage if you have a high tolerance to THC, it can still function as a reference point. Those who are seasoned pros with THC can start with a higher dose than someone taking HHC for the first time who rarely, or never, uses THC.
HHC Delivery Method
Sure it’s the same cannabinoid, but your HHC dosage will also depend on how you plan to consume it. It’s thought that vaporizing HHC may be more effective than smokable forms, so you may have to lighten up your vaping dose even if you can handle higher doses in smokable form.
Edibles tend to be the most effective means of delivery, since HHC is absorbed more effectively into the stomach, so you will want to start low and slow with edibles compared to other delivery methods.
Your Comfort Level and Routine
Before you try HHC, it helps to know that you are already comfortable with the effects of THC, as you are likely to tolerate higher doses of HHC. You should also consider what you have on the docket before diving in. HHC also produces many of the same effects as THC, so you should avoid activities involving driving, machinery, and other tasks that require clear thinking.
Strain Type
Just like cannabis and hemp, the strain type can also indicate how much HHC you should take. Different strains may have varying effects and terpene profiles, which on their own can offer a number of specific results. A heady sativa may be right up your alley, while even a little of a more sedating indica could immediately put you in the couch, for example.
What to Know Before Taking HHC
This is a very new cannabinoid in the consumer market, with limited research behind it, so you will have to determine for yourself whether it’s right for you and if the effects work with what you’re looking for.
HHC is often thought to be stronger than delta-8 THC but less strong than delta-9 THC, so if you’ve tried delta-8 and didn’t feel like it was as effective as you’d hoped, HHC could be a good alternative.
Cannabis and cannabinoid products also affect everyone differently, so as much as you may read about the cannabinoid or hear experiences from others, you truly won’t know how it will affect you until you try it.
Is HHC Safe?
Admittedly, the literature on HHC and science surrounding its use is limited. That does not mean HHC is unsafe, but it is still a very new cannabinoid to hit the market. Simply put, we do not have enough information to truly affirm whether HHC is safe.
Even so, HHC is already being used by consumers and has no serious adverse effects associated with its use. It is naturally occurring in hemp and cannabis plants, so it’s likely that the odds of experiencing adverse effects are slim to none. HHC is also made from delta-9 THC, which has been researched for decades.
At the end of the day, stick with an optimal, moderate dose that works for you and you should not experience any major issues. It is up to you to decide if HHC is right for you. Luckily, the worst thing that can happen when taking too many psychoactive cannabinoids is feeling overwhelmed by the effects. They will subside.
Final Thoughts
As we continue to learn more about HHC and the hemp-derived cannabinoid market continues to take off, it’s likely we’ll see more from HHC in the future. While HHC may be the perfect fit for many consumers, it’s up to you to decide whether it works for you, and proper dosage is essential. Equipping yourself with knowledge and being cognizant are the most important steps!
Disclaimer: None of what is published on evn-cbd.com is intended to be professional medical advice. Consult your health practitioner regarding any medical treatment or diagnosis.