It’s hard to believe, but there was a time when the only two cannabinoids that people were talking about were THC and CBD. Now that cannabis is continuing its steady march toward full legalization, scientists and enthusiasts are discovering more and more cannabinoids practically every day. Since there are hundreds inside the plant, it’s no surprise that a few of them would garner some interest, like HHC.
As with THC, HHC is making waves because of its psychoactive properties. However, because of how it’s made, HHC is far less potent than traditional THC, which is why it’s becoming such a popular product around the country. So, is HHC legal? Now that this compound is making the rounds, let’s dive deeper and figure out what the deal is with HHC and its legal status.
What is HHC?
HHC stands for hexahydrocannabinol, and unlike THC and CBD, it’s not found naturally in the cannabis plant. Instead, HHC is manufactured through a process called hydrogenation, similar to how vegetable oil is turned into margarine.
HHC was first created in 1947, although its status as a psychoactive compound was largely unknown until recently. The hydrogenation process is crucial, though, particularly when discussing HHC’s legal status. Technically, this product is THC with an extra hydrogen molecule, meaning it doesn’t fall under the same regulations and restrictions as traditional THC.
What are the Effects of HHC?
The manufacturing process of making HHC effectively dilutes it from the original THC compound. So, while this product does retain some of its psychoactive effects, it’s far less potent than other forms of cannabis.
It’s hard to say exactly how HHC affects the body, though, because of variables like:
- Body Chemistry – Cannabis reacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is why CBD and THC also offer health benefits. Some people have excellent ECSs, while others might be lacking. So, HHC may get you high while it doesn’t really do much for someone else.
- Tolerance Level – If you’ve been smoking or ingesting highly potent THC for a while, HHC may seem far more mild and ineffective. However, if you’re new to the world of cannabis, HHC may make you feel pretty high, although not as much as you would if you smoked a regular flower.
- Product Quality – Since HHC has a dubious legal status (depending on where you live), there are no manufacturing standards or oversight for businesses that sell it. Some HHC products (like Pluto’s Punch gummies from Galaxy Treats) are high-quality and have guaranteed potency, while others use fillers and synthetic materials that won’t have much effect.
Is HHC Legal in the United States?
Because of marijuana legalization spreading throughout the US, many states are taking sides on the issue. With Congress passing the 2018 Farm Bill, the hemp plant became the go-to source of hemp-derived cannabinoids, thus the HHC legality.
Although more states are recognizing the value of legalizing cannabis and other related products, some states are still going hard in the opposite direction. In recent years, state legislatures are learning to target secondary cannabinoids like Delta-8 THC and HHC. As of 2023, here are the states where hexahydrocannabinol is expressly illegal:
- Arkansas
- Arizona
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Mississippi
- Montana
- New York
- North Dakota
- Utah
- Washington
There are also a few other states where HHC is likely illegal, although the situation is a bit of a gray area, so it’s hard to tell officially what the state’s stance on it is. Those states include:
- Alaska
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Hawaii
- Kentucky
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
As you’ll notice, some of these states allow recreational cannabis, so it seems a bit odd that they would outlaw HHC products. However, because of the proliferation of new HHC items on the market and the lack of oversight, the reason is likely public safety. There are mountains of data on the effects of THC and CBD, but not necessarily on how HHC affects the body. As a precaution, always do your research on the laws of your state before buying your first bag of Galaxy Treats gummies.
Where Can You Buy HHC Products?
In states where HHC is fully legal (or just not illegal), you can buy products online or at a dispensary. Online sales are fast and convenient, and you can even get products like HHC disposables sent to your front door.
Because HHC is hydrogenated, you can’t smoke it like a regular cannabis flower. However, vape cartridges allow you to absorb the compound through the lungs, delivering a more potent blast and a smoother high.
If you prefer edibles, gummies are the best option because they’re delicious (like Galaxy Grapple) and they’re easy to ingest. Plus, you can get up to 15 grams of high-quality HHC in each serving, so you don’t have to down the entire bag to feel something.
Blast Off With Galaxy Treats HHC Gummies and Disposables
HHC offers a smoother high that gives you a slight buzz without derailing your motor functions. That said, it’s always important to test new cannabis products to see how they affect your body, so you know what to expect. Fortunately, products like Galaxy Grapple or Pluto’s Punch gummies from Galaxy Treats allow you to experience this compound for yourself. Buy a two or 20-count pack and see what HHC can do for you!
