Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is the latest trend in cannabis products. It provides a mellow, controllable euphoria. But is HHC legal? Legality is always an issue when consuming a cannabis product. You must be familiar with local and federal law to ensure you don’t get in trouble for purchasing or possessing the wrong product type. The amount of cannabis you carry also comes into play.
Cannabis laws can get confusing, and you may wonder, is HHC legal? Laws differ on a federal and local level and from state to state. They pertain to the THC content in each product and other factors. Come with us as we answer your questions so you can take HHC confidently and avoid trouble.
What Is HHC?
HHC is a naturally occurring and extremely rare cannabis plant cannabinoid. It produces milder euphoria than THC (Delta 9 THC, Delta 9, D9 THC, and D9). Many enthusiasts claim it’s a more manageable way to enjoy the pleasures of THC without becoming too airy. HHC is a favorite with those who rely upon it to help them ease daily stressors.
A Historical Effect and Today’s Trends
HHC was first discovered in 1944 by an American chemist named Roger Adams. He was experimenting with THC when he introduced hydrogen atoms to it, converting it to HHC. The process of adding a hydrogen atom is known as hydrogenation, Which is the same process that’s used to make margarine.
Modern Significance
Now, 80 years later, HHC is gaining traction in the cannabis community. It produces euphoric effects, but it provides a mellower euphoria than most THC products. It may relieve anxiousness and physical discomfort without causing paranoia. Its euphoric effects are ideal for destressing, which is something that modern consumers are in need of.
Is HHC Legal?
Yes, hemp-derived HHC products are federally legal as long as they contain 0.3% or less THC. Hemp-derived HHC’s legal status is contingent on the amount of THC it contains. The Farm Bill of 2018 made hemp and hemp products legal, providing they contain 0.3% or less THC.
Although federal law has no restrictions, hemp-derived HHC products may be illegal in certain states. Legal HHC regulation falls upon state laws that may counter the federal government’s legal stance on hemp-derived HHC products.
Marijuana-derived HHC products are not legal under federal law. HHC products made from marijuana are considered to be a controlled substance. However, marijuana-derived HHC products may be legal in states that have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use.
State-by-State HHC Legality – HHC Legal States
So, is HHC legal in the state you live in? Here is a list of states with legal HHC as of May 31, 2024. Here’s the list arranged by regions.
Western States
- Alaska: HHC is legal provided it contains less than 0.3% THC.
- California: HHC products must contain less than 0.3% THC.
- Hawaii: Hemp products with less than 0.3% THC are legal.
- Oregon: HHC is legal as long as it contains 0.3% or less THC.
- Washington: HHC is illegal.
Midwestern States
- Illinois: Cannabis is legal in Illinois, but HHC is not specified in the state’s cannabis laws.
- Indiana: Permits the sale and possession of HHC.
- Iowa: Medical cannabis is legal in Iowa. Its state laws regarding HHC are unclear.
- Kansas: According to the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act, all hemp-derived products with 0.3% THC or less are legal.
- Michigan: HHC is legal, provided it is purchased at a licensed dispensary.
- Minnesota: Legal, Minnesota permits HHC as long as it contains 0.3% THC or less.
- Missouri: Approves HHC and other hemp derivatives containing 0.3% THC or less.
- Nebraska: HHC and other hemp-derived cannabinoids are legal.
- North Dakota: HHC is illegal. The state classifies HHC as a one of several controlled substances.
- Ohio: In line with federal law. HHC and other hemp products are legal in the state.
- South Dakota: Adults 21+ may legally enjoy HHC products.
- Wisconsin: Legalized hemp products with 0.3% or less of THC.
Southern States
- Alabama: All hemp-derived products are legal.
- Arkansas: Hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% THC are legal. However, laws don’t mention HHC, making legal status unclear.
- Florida: Hemp-derived HHC and other hemp derivatives are legal in Florida.
- Georgia: Hemp-derived products with 0.3% THC isomers are legal.
- Kentucky: Hemp derivatives are legal. The state’s specific stance on HHC is unclear.
- Louisiana: HHC and other hemp-derived cannabinoids are legal.
- Mississippi: Illegal. The state classifies HHC as a controlled substance.
- North Carolina: Hemp-derived THC isomers are legal in North Carolina.
- Oklahoma: HHC is legal, providing the THC content is no more than 0.3%.
- South Carolina: Approves HHC and other hemp products with 0.3% THC content or less.
- Tennessee: HHC has not been addressed in Tennessee state laws. It is in a gray area.
- Texas: Texas legislators have not mentioned HHC in its state laws. Its legal status is unknown.
- Virginia: HHC and other hemp products are legal in Virginia.
- West Virginia: Approves HHC products with a THC content of 0.3% and under.
Eastern States
- Connecticut: HHC is legal when purchased through licensed dispensaries. Online HHC sales are illegal.
- Delaware: According to the Delaware Uniform Controlled Substances Act, hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% THC are legal.
- Maine: Allows HHC and other hemp derivatives that contain 0.3% THC or less.
- Maryland: Legalized HHC and other hemp-derived cannabinoids with 0.3% THC or less.
- Massachusetts. The state makes all HHC products derived from hemp permissible as long as it adheres to the 2018 Farm Bill.
- New Hampshire: New Hampshire cannabis laws do not mention HHC, putting it in a gray area.
- New Jersey: The state has legal HHC, providing its THC content does not exceed 0.3%.
- New York: Illegal. The state has strict regulations against THC isomers.
- Pennsylvania: HHC is legal in Pennsylvania.
- Rhode Island: This state has legal hemp-derived cannabinoids with THC content matching federal law guidelines.
- Vermont: HHC sits in a legal gray area. Similar production is used to make Delta 8 THC, so HHC might be considered illegal.
- West Virginia: Approves HHC with a THC content of 0.3% and under.
- Wyoming: Endorses hemp products that contain 0.3% THC or less.
Is HHC Natural or Manmade?
HHC is a natural cannabinoid in cannabis plants. However, since it’s so rare, it can be naturally derived and manmade via semi-synthetic means. Hydrogenation is often used to make up for HHC’s scarcity. This ensures the masses can enjoy this beneficial cannabis product.
Some may prefer enjoying all-natural cannabis, but the hydrogenation process provides benefits. It makes HHC more stable. Hydrogenated HHC will withstand heat and UV light better, ensuring a prolonged shelf life.
Will HHC Make You Fail a Drug Test?
Yes, HHC may cause you to fail a drug test. Even though the chemical structure differs from THC, it is still close enough to trigger a false positive. So, will it produce a positive result on a drug test? Let’s dive deeper into this topic.
Demystifying Drug Tests
Drug tests typically scan for THC. However, it does not differentiate between different types of THC products. It will not be able to tell if you consumed Delta 8 THC, Delta 9 THC, HHC, or any other type of THC analog.
HHC’s Chemical Footprint
The body processes different types of cannabis differently. When it processes THC, it breaks it down into 11-hydroxy-THC. When it processes HHC, it breaks it down to 11-hydroxy-HHC.
So, if THC and HHC are broken down into different substances, does that put you in the clear? Not necessarily. Both 11-hydroxy HHC and 11-hydroxy THC are so structurally alike it is difficult for drug tests to know the difference. You could get a positive result. It’s always best to proceed with caution. Avoid HHC and THC if a drug test looms in your future.
What are the Effects of HHC?
When HHC enters the body, it interacts with the cannabinoid receptors of your endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce certain results. The ECS influences many important bodily functions, including mood, temperature, immunity, discomfort response, and more.
HHC is generally not as strong as Delta 9 THC. However, it could be more potent than Delta 8. In any event, its interactions with the ECS produce a relatively mellow experience. Consumers are less likely to experience anxiety and paranoia.
Although the cannabinoid is not as potent as other cannabis products, it produces many similar effects, including the following:
- Relaxation
- Better sleep
- Improved mood
- Reduced anxiousness
- Relief of physical discomfort
- Mild euphoria
People may have different experiences when taking HHC. When starting with this product, go slow and increase your dose gradually as needed.
Why Choose Exhale Wellness for HHC?
HHC is still a lesser-known cannabis and may not be as widely available on the cannabis market, but Exhale Wellness has various products that will suit your HHC needs! Our brand carries various organic hemp products that stand out for their potency and purity. No synthetic cannabinoids here! We only use hemp-derived, naturally-made HHC to make our products!
Exhale Wellness carries a wide selection of HHC products, including vapes and gummies. These products contain hemp-derived HHC and all-natural ingredients. They may also be mixed with the following cannabinoids to provide a full-spectrum effect.
- HHC Gummy Cubes are our original formulation. They are made from hemp-derived HHC and are available in various strengths and assorted fruit flavors.
- HHC + Delta 9 THC + THCp Gummies. Infused with THC and THCp to deliver a powerful, elevating experience that is out of this world.
- HHC + Delta 9 THC + Amanita Gummies. The addition of muscimol, the main euphoric compound in Amanita muscaria mushrooms, gently puts you to sleep. While in a deep slumber, you’ll experience dreams filled with vivid sights and sounds, unraveling the deepest recesses of your mind.
- HHC Vape Cartridges are available in various strains and fitted with a universal 510-thread attachment port. They can be used with any 510-thread battery.
- HHC Disposable Vapes. There is no need for a battery. These convenient vaporizers come with a pre-filled tank and are charged and ready to consume right out of the box. No activation is required; just inhale from the mouthpiece for a smooth, draw-activated experience.
FAQs – Is HHC Legal?
How Long Does HHC Last?
The duration of an HHC will vary depending on your tolerance and metabolism as well as the method of consumption. Like most cannabis products, edibles can last 2-6 hours, while smokable hemp products last 2-4 hours.
Is HHC Stronger Than CBD?
HHC is stronger than CBD because it produces euphoria. Compared to THC’s euphoria, HHC is relatively mild, while CBD does not produce any euphoric effects. However, CBD could be more effective at providing health and wellness benefits.
Does HHC Make Your Eyes Red?
Yes, HHC produces many of the same benefits and side effects as THC. Therefore, it can make your eyes red. The more you consume, the more pronounced it will be.
How Often Should One Consume HHC?
There are no hard and fast rules regarding how often you should consume HHC. Some make it part of their wellness routine. Others use it on an as-needed basis. However, you should not consume more than two doses a day. Choose from 25mg and 50 mg doses depending on your tolerance levels.
Final Thoughts – Is HHC Legal? [The Surprising Answer Revealed]
HHC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that can also be synthetically produced. It can help to improve mood, boost relaxation, and relieve physical discomfort. HHC offers milder, more manageable euphoria than THC. But the big question remains: is HHC illegal? When it comes to the legal landscape of HHC, it can get tricky. Hemp-derived products containing HHC are legal under federal law if they contain no more than 0.3% THC.
However, marijuana-derived HHC products are federally illegal but may be legal in certain states. Even though hemp-derived HHC is federally legal, state laws may differ. Find out the legal implications in your state to ensure you have a safe and relaxing HHC experience. If you’re curious about HHC, try it by going to our shop and getting your hands on the best HHC Gummies and Vapes online!
