Bearly Legal Hemp is a company with a bear for a mascot. It makes quality cannabis consumables and goes beyond CBD to explore the potential of lesser-known cannabinoids. Delta-8 is one of these, and it is becoming increasingly popular because it offers a brief buzz with lasting therapeutic benefits. THC-O and HHC are other cannabinoids that are similar to THC, but they are legal in most places that regulate THC. For mental and physical relaxation, it’s worth trying the quality products offered by Bearly Legal Hemp.
What is THC-O?
Most cannabinoids can be converted to other cannabinoids by altering the chemistry of the molecules. THC-O is made through a series of extractions. Cannabidiol (CBD) is extracted from less than 0.3% THC hemp. Delta-8 THC is then extracted from the CBD. The delta-8 THC molecules are exposed to an organic solvent to create a flavorless, scentless thick isolate. This oil is used to make vape products and oral products.
What is HHC?
HHC is a minor cannabinoid that occurs naturally in the cannabis plant but in an amount that’s too small to make extraction cost-effective. Commercial HHC is made from hemp-derived cannabinoids in a lab. They are hydrogenated under pressure with a catalyst through chemical processes. Adding hydrogen to the THC molecule alters its physical properties.
Choosing a product
It is important to purchase high-quality products. THC-O needs to be made by experienced cannabinoid extraction technicians. It must be carefully refined to remove any leftover solvent not used in the chemical conversion process. Poor product quality is one of the main reasons people may have a negative experience when using hemp-derived THC products. It’s important to find a transparent brand that uses U.S.-grown hemp and manufactures its products in a compliant facility. Look for a full ingredient list and third-party lab test results.
What effects can you expect?
THC-O has effects similar to that of delta-9 THC, but it binds more tightly to the body’s cannabinoid receptors, so it is more potent than many other THC products. Reports from users generally describe the high from HHC as being somewhere between delta 8 and delta 9 THC. It is not technically THC, and it won’t make someone high or cause impaired motor skills or mental cloudiness in small doses.
Not much research has been done yet into either THC-O or HHC, but researchers have established that THC-O is highly bioavailable and circulates well in the body. Users of both products report feeling mentally and physically relaxed. This euphoric feeling can be very beneficial for people who battle to cope with stress.
Anecdotal evidence is that HHC at the correct dosage has anti-anxiety effects. When it is metabolized, it appears to stimulate the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the body and reduce anxiety, nervousness, and tension. Both THC-O and HHO appear to have potential as therapeutics. Apart from promoting relaxation, they may help to give users better sleep quality and reduce inflammation and pain.
Are these products safe to use?
In the absence of data to establish safety, it is always important for new users to proceed with great caution. Experts advise starting very slowly with a low dose and gradually adding to it if necessary. THC-O can take longer to kick in than other THC products. The effects aren’t felt until it’s fully processed in the body, so users should always wait and see how they react before ingesting more. THC-O preparations often contain some Delta-8 as its effects are milder and can help to create a more balanced effect.
Are these products legal?
Hemp was made federally legal by the 2018 Farm Bill. As delta-8 THC, THC-O and HHC are derived from legal hemp and contain no delta-9 THC. They are federally legal and more accessible than traditional THC products. Delta 9-THC is federally illegal and illegal in most states.