We have gone from a situation where you were lucky to have access to marijuana flower to one where all manner of minor cannabinoids are available to purchase. From THCP to HHCP, there are a lot of interesting options with varying degrees of potency and safety.
While HHCO has been on the market for a little while, not much is known about it. This article aims to change all that by outlining what it is, how it feels, and the possible dangers of using it.
What Is HHCO?
It’s entirely possible that you have never heard of HHCO because it’s a relatively new entrant in the burgeoning minor cannabinoid market. As you can probably tell by the name, HHCO is the acetate ester of HHC.
HHC, or hexahydrocannabinol, acts as the hydrogenated form of THC and is seemingly found in trace amounts in the cannabis plant. Thus, to create HHCO, manufacturers apply acetic anhydride to HHC. It is a process similar to how THCO is created from THC.
The result is a cannabinoid that’s about 50% more potent than HHC. Since HHC is about 75-80% as potent as delta-9 THC, it means that HHCO likely has a slightly stronger effect than the famous cannabinoid associated with marijuana.
One could view this compound as a souped-up version of HHC. Consequently, you need to approach it with caution.
What Does the High Feel Like?
Each of us has an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that regulates various functions within our bodies. These include mood, sleep, immune response, and the perception of pain. The ECS helps maintain balance in the body via endocannabinoids, enzymes, and endocannabinoid receptors.
We know that endocannabinoids (those created naturally by the body) and cannabinoids we consume, such as delta-8 THC, HHC, and HHC-O, interact with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS.
As HHCO seemingly has a strong affinity with CB1 receptors (like delta-9 THC and other intoxicating cannabinoids), it can provide a relaxing and euphoric sensation. However, we should point out that there isn’t a huge amount of research into the impact of HHCO.
However, it seems likely that the effects are broadly similar to those provided by other intoxicating cannabinoids, like D9. This means you could experience the following:
- An appetite boost
- Sensory enhancement
- Pain relief
- Reduced anxiety
- Better sleep
Those who have used HHCO claim that the high is indeed a little more potent than what they feel after using marijuana. The cannabinoid can cause an unfocused, hazy, yet thoroughly pleasant sensation that helps you unwind and melt away the worries of your day.
Is HHCO Dangerous?
Since HHCO is an intoxicating cannabinoid, it carries similar risks to other well-known compounds that cause a high. This may include adverse effects such as:
- Heightened anxiety or paranoia, if predisposed to these conditions
- Dry eyes and mouth
- Dizziness, nausea, and vomiting
- Insomnia
- Elevated heart rate
- Hallucinations
However, there is another concerning issue to consider and it relates to vaping HHCO. A 2019 study found that vaping vitamin E acetate led to the production of ketene, a toxic gas that’s been linked to the vaping lung illness outbreak that claimed the lives of dozens of people and hospitalized thousands more in 2019 and 2020.
It seems that ketene is released when any cannabinoid acetate is vaped. Moreover, there is evidence that vitamin E acetate has a similar chemical structure to new cannabinoid acetate products available for sale. Even more concerning is that ketene could be produced at lower temperatures than previously believed and that a single puff of a vape pen could release levels of the gas harmful to human health.
Therefore, if you intend to purchase HHCO products, it is advisable to stick with edibles. In this case, take note of the dosage. Since the cannabinoid is likely more potent than delta 9, begin with a small amount to see how it impacts you.
It should go without saying that you should only ever purchase HHCO that comes with third-party lab reports. Otherwise, you could be ingesting all manner of harmful contaminants.
Can I Buy HHCO Legally Online?
As is the case with every other minor cannabinoid, the legality of HHCO varies from one state to the next. The 2018 Farm Bill states that industrial hemp, which is cannabis with a maximum delta-9 THC content of 0.3%, is federally legal to grow in the United States.
HHC is created using CBD extracted from hemp, which is converted into delta-8 and finally into HHC. So, technically speaking, if HHCO’s origin is hemp and the product contains less than the 0.3% D9 threshold, it is federally legal in the United States.
Still, one must be aware that a growing number of states are banning THC-O and other products containing minor cannabinoids, such as delta-10 THC. Therefore, you need to check your jurisdiction’s laws. However, reputable sellers won’t ship to you if the cannabinoid isn’t legal in your location.
It’s also likely that the DEA will get around to closing the loophole seemingly created by the Farm Bill and clarified by the Ninth Circuit in 2022. If and when this happens, you’ll find that HHCO becomes illegal federally, although it could still be on sale in certain states.
The Last Word on HHCO
At present, there isn’t a great deal of research into HHCO and its effects. What we know is that this HHC acetate is potentially harmful when vaped. Therefore, you’re advised to think twice about purchasing HHCO vaping products.
This cannabinoid is currently legal in certain states, although many jurisdictions have outlawed its use. Since HHCO is seemingly slightly more potent than delta-9 THC, exercise caution when using it lest you have an unpleasant experience!
