What is HHC? How Does it Work and What are the Benefits
13 Sep 2022
Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a cannabinoid in industrial hemp. It’s not usually a stand-out feature of hemp; it’s an obscure one. But when you look at the research on HHC, you see that this obscure compound could be the hidden gem of industrial hemp.
HHC has been getting a lot of attention recently because of some exciting potential benefits. Also known as tetrahydrocannabinolic acid or THCA, this non-intoxicating cannabinoid can do everything from reducing stress to alleviating chronic pain. As you’ll discover, there are many potential health benefits of Hexahydrocannabinol HHC in the right dosage.
What is HHC?
Hexahydrocannabinol is a cannabinoid in industrial hemp.A cannabinoid is a chemical compound that interacts with receptors in your body. HHC has both hallucinogenic and analgesic properties, though small amounts of it won’t affect you. This means that it has anti-inflammatory and anti-convulsive properties, as well as being an analgesic.
Analgesics help to relieve pain, like ibuprofen or morphine. HHC has also been able to reduce anxiety and stress and have antidepressant effects.
How Does Hexahydrocannabinol Work?
There’s no doubt that HHC has a lot of potential health benefits. But before you get too happy, it’s important to note that these benefits have no confirmation..
Although HHC is a cannabinoid, most of the research so far has focused on THC. The HHC you find in industrial hemp is non-intoxicating, but usually has very low levels of THC. Industrial hemp is grown differently to attain a THC level that’s low enough to be legal.
HHC primarily interacts with CB1 receptors in your brain, the brain links CB1 with pleasure, memory, and movement. THC, on the other hand, interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors, which link to the endocannabinoid system.
Stress and Depression
As you now know, being overwhelmed and out of control leads too stress and depression. HHC shows ways to reduce activity in the amygdala, the part of your brain that links anxiety and stress.
This means that it could be an effective way to manage stress and anxiety, without the side effects of some medications. It’s important to note that there is much more research on THC, not HHC.
The dosage for HHC to impact your brain is much higher than you would find in industrial hemp, which again is not yet proven. There is some concern that high doses of THC could trigger a manic episode in people with bipolar disorder, so it’s important to explore your options.
Chronic Pain and Inflammation
Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that can have a huge impact on your quality of life. Over 20% of people will experience chronic pain at some point in their lives.
People who suffer from chronic pain are prescribed opioids, but these have serious side effects. In fact, there is a growing opioid epidemic in Canada and the US due to the over-prescription of these drugs.
HHC has also been able to reduce the transmission of pain signals in the body. It’s also been able to reduce inflammation, which is a contributor to many chronic illnesses. If you’re in pain and considering opioids, it may be worth exploring HHC as an alternative.
Promising Research for Cancer Patients
There are many studies that explore how cannabinoids can combat the side effects of chemotherapy. These studies often use THC, so it’s important to remember that HHC is non-intoxicating.
However, there is one study that demonstrates HHC and how it could impact cancer patients. The study suggests that HHC could relieve inflammation and reduce nausea, which are two common side effects of chemotherapy. It may also have an impact on appetite and sleep quality, which is important for managing stress.
Summary
Hexahydrocannabinol is the non-intoxicating precursor of THC. It’s one of the many compounds in the plant’s trichomes.
Trichomes are the little hairs that cover hemp plants (and other plants, too). You’ve probably seen these little white or translucent dots on plants you’re growing or on produce you buy from the store. You’re looking at the plant’s natural defense – its protection against predators, damage, and disease.
Hexahydrocannabinol is albe to reduce stress and depression, chronic pain and inflammation, and it’s been promising in reducing the side effects of chemotherapy in cancer patients.
There are many potential benefits of Hexahydrocannabinol.