HHC vs THCA: Which Cannabinoid is Better?

Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, or THCA, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found naturally in raw, fresh cannabis plants. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-9 THC), it doesn’t actually cause noticeable euphoric or uplifting effects in this raw state. 

The effects of THCA in its raw state are imperceptible and mild because the THCA molecule has an extra carboxyl ring that prevents it from binding to cannabinoid receptors in the way that THC does. Only once this molecule has transformed into THC are the effects euphoric, uplifting, relaxing, and buzz-worthy.

All of which is to say, the effects you get from a THCA product can be either non-psychoactive or highly psychoactive, depending on the format. Edibles, tinctures, and other products never exposed to heat sources will fall into the non-psychoactive category, while THCA vapes, THCA flower, and THCA concentrates will be decidedly psychoactive. 

And, yes, before you ask, THCA is legal so long as it is derived from hemp. For those unfamiliar with federal legislation, hemp and all hemp-related products were legalized back in 2018 with the passage of the Farm Bill. Under these rules, hemp products are legal, provided it contains less than 0.3 percent Delta-9 THC by dry weight. 

However, some states have put restrictions on the amount of THCA allowed in inhalables (especially flower), since it converts so readily to THC. We recommend doing your research before purchasing THCA products.

Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a lesser-known cannabinoid that is related to THC but comes with a few interesting characteristics. It's created through hydrogenation, a natural process that involves working with hemp-derived CBD and hydrogen. The final result is a molecule with two more hydrogen atoms than either delta-9 THC or delta-8 THC.

This hydrogenation process transforms the non-psychoactive CBD molecule into one that can interact with CB1 cannabinoid receptors to produce delightful psychoactive effects. HHC creates many of the same effects as THC, including euphoria, relaxation, and mood boost, but most people find the effects much milder. 

As a hemp-derived cannabinoid, HHC is also legal thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill. Just keep in mind that some states have passed additional legislation banning certain cannabinoids, which may include HHC. Do your due diligence before ordering to ensure HHC is legal in your jurisdiction. 

How would you decide the best choice if presented with two options: HHC vs THCA?

In one corner is a mild-mannered cannabinoid, just waiting to be heated so it can transform into a relaxing, elevated experience. In the other is a ready-to-go cannabinoid that may not hit the same intensity as classic THC but offers pleasant mood-boosting and well-rounded effects.

Ultimately, there is no single correct answer. There are so many reasons and so many circumstances for diving into either of these hemp-derived cannabinoids; the best choice really depends on what experience you are looking to curate.

If you are looking for a classic THC sensation that heightens your sensations and gives you a lift, both THCA and HHC are great options. Of course, just remember to stick with smoked or vaped formats of THCA that will convert the cannabinoid into THC. 

Lean into a THCA vape or THCA concentrates for a more intense experience. But, for anyone looking for something less potent, try your hand with an HHC-infused option. Whether it's an HHC-infused gummy or an HHC vape, you’ll get all those mood-lifting benefits without the intensity of Delta-9.

But there may be times when you want to avoid the psychoactive impact altogether. If that’s the case, look for products with THCA in their raw state, like an edible or tincture. Although there may be some conversion from THCa to THC even at room temperature, THCA gummies will very likely have very low levels of THC and contain high levels of THCA. Thus, they won’t deliver psychoactive effects.