Written by Joshua Sosin

The cannabis Sativa plant is full of amazing compounds called cannabinoids. You have cannabinoids to thank for the incredible effects that you experience when you smoke flower or enjoy THC edibles.

Both HHC and THC are cannabinoids, and both can have potent psychoactive effects. However, there are some big differences between THC products and HHC products that are worth knowing before you order either.

The biggest distinction you need to know about when it comes to HHC vs THC is strength — which of these cannabinoids is stronger?

The answer isn't as simple as you might think. The potent effects of both of these cannabinoids are tough to compare, but we'll do our best in the sections below.

Want to learn more about cannabinoids like HHC and THC? Head to the Mood Blog, where you'll find many other fascinating posts.

What Is HHC?

HHC stands for hexahydrocannabinol, a naturally occurring cannabinoid that’s found in trace amounts in the cannabis plant.

While HHC forms naturally in very small amounts, most HHC available today is produced through hydrogenation — a process that converts THC into HHC by adding hydrogen atoms.

This process alters the molecular structure and can also affect the stability and shelf life of the cannabinoid.

One of the reasons HHC is so popular right now is that it's linked to a smoother experience. Users often say that HHC produces a unique blend of effects that some describe as clear-headed and mellow.

The Bottom Line: While it shares similarities with THC, HHC's distinct production process might be the main reason behind the subtle differences in potency and duration of effects.

Understanding THC

Delta-9 THC is the most well-known and studied cannabinoid in cannabis.

It’s the primary compound responsible for the psychoactive effects that many users love. THC interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, binding primarily to CB1 receptors in the brain, which in turn affects mood, perception, and many other physiological responses.

For decades, THC has been the benchmark that other cannabinoids are compared to. Whether you’re using legal hemp flower or other cannabis products, the effects of THC are familiar to many in our community — from creative bursts to a laid-back, relaxing state.

However, THC's effects can vary widely depending on the strain, dosage, and individual tolerance. Our advice is to try THC yourself and see how it affects you at different potency levels.

To learn more about THC, check out our blog post all about cannabis extracts.

Comparing the Two: Chemical Structure in Hemp Derived Products

The chemical structure of HHC is similar to Delta-9 THC, with one key difference: the added hydrogen atoms.

This small change can influence how HHC interacts with receptors in the body.

Some researchers suggest that the hydrogenation process can lead to a compound that is more stable than THC. In other words, HHC might be less prone to degradation over time — which means a longer shelf life.

Also, since most HHC is synthesized from THC through hydrogenation, slight variations in the process can result in differences in purity and potency.

It’s these nuances that make direct comparisons challenging — but also very interesting for anyone interested in the science behind cannabinoids.

HHC Compared To THC: Is HHC Stronger?

The big question on everyone’s mind is whether HHC is stronger than THC.

Anecdotal reports from the cannabis community are mixed here. Some users report that HHC offers a comparable experience to Delta-9 THC, while others say it feels slightly milder.

There are even reports of HHC producing a smoother, more manageable high that can be easier to integrate into daily life.

The Scientific Answer

From a scientific standpoint, the differences in potency may be very subtle. Laboratory tests often measure binding affinity to cannabinoid receptors, and preliminary studies suggest that HHC’s affinity might be slightly lower than that of Delta-9 THC.

However, potency isn’t just about receptor binding; it also involves a person's metabolism, tolerance, and the specific product they're using.

At Mood, we believe that the best way to understand these differences is to approach HHC with curiosity and care. If you enjoy experimenting with cannabinoids, trying a small amount of HHC (our medium-potency 25mg HHC Gel Caps, for example) and comparing it to your usual THC experience can be an enlightening journey.

Tips for a Balanced Experience With HHC and Other Cannabis Extracts

If you’re curious about trying HHC for yourself, here are a few tips from us at Mood:

• Start Low: Go with a small amount to see how it makes you feel. Since individual tolerance varies, a conservative start can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Keep a Journal: Documenting your cannabis journey can be super helpful. In each entry, note the amount of an HHC product you used, the timing, and any differences you observe compared to THC. Over time, this can help you fine-tune your ideal experience.

• Pair with a Relaxing Activity: Reading, listening to music, or enjoying nature can enhance your overall experience and make the high even more worthwhile.

The Bottom Line on HHC vs. THC

HHC and THC are two naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, and both are worth trying.

When it comes to potency, there isn't exactly a straightforward answer to the question of which one is stronger. THC binds to your body's cannabinoid receptors more powerfully than HHC and other hemp-derived cannabinoids, but that's only one aspect of the question of potency.

Ultimately, the main factor that determines the psychoactive potency of these cannabinoids is how much you use. In some cases, Delta-9 might have milder psychoactive effects than its hydrogenated derivative because of the amount found in a product. Often, though, the opposite is true. Keep this in mind when shopping for products like HHC gummies and THC edibles.

If you're not sure whether a cannabis product is right for you, follow the potency guidelines in the Mood Shop. There, you can find mild, medium, and high-potency products that perfectly match your desired mood. Subscribe to save 15% on your order.