Hexahydrocannabinol is a phytocannabinoid that naturally occurs in the cannabis plant. It is the product of the hydrogenation of tetrahydrocannabinol. Generally, we derive HHC used for commercial purposes from cannabis extracts. So, it is less toxic and is not as psychoactive to get the user high at regulated dosages. With new cannabinoids coming to the limelight, the cannabis market is booming. The intriguing addition to the list is our Hexahydrocannabinol, HHC in short. Scientists say that the effects of the compound are similar to those of THC. Lately, HHC for pets has been trending among cannabis users. Want to know more about giving HHC to your pets? Read on.
What is HHC?
HHC differs from THC in its structure that impacts the potency and effects. As THC goes through hydrogenation, hydrogen atoms replace the double bond in THC, giving HHC more stability. According to chemists, the hydrogenation process makes HHC resistant to oxidative breakdowns.
How does HHC work?
The endocannabinoid network in animals is more complicated than in humans. When pets consume cannabinoids, the effects are usually immediate. HHC, with higher bioavailability, gets into their system faster than other compounds. Undoubtedly, the efficacy of this compound is equal to that of natural cannabinoids.
Over these years, the number of pet owners turning to CBD-infused pet products increased enormously. HHC, being more potent, is finding its place of legacy among the products.
Now, let us see how HHC can help your pets.
Pain relief
There can be times when your pets have an injury or inflammation. Both acute and chronic pain can make your pets feel miserable. Experiencing pain can have other effects on their everyday life. Pain does have a lot of ill effects on your furry friends. Some of them include,
- Increase in blood pressure
- Increased breathing rate
- Causes tension in muscles
- Reduces oxygen saturation rate
- Causes sleep disruptions.
And for animals, pain can even lead to a change in behavior. If you spot your pet behaving aggressively, one of the causes might be pain. Making them consume HHC can be an ideal option as HHC interacts with the cannabinoid receptors in their central nervous system and reduces pain perception. Like other cannabinoids, HHC increases anandamide secretion and produces a feeling of pleasure.
As pets age, they start experiencing neuropathic pain due to medical conditions. HHC possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce nerve pain in senior dogs. If your pet suffers from arthritis, HHC can be an ideal option. Arthritic pain causes pain in joints. With time, it can affect the mobility of your pets. Giving HHC improves the symptoms of pain.
Not just that, HHC improves the overall immunity of your pet. ECS is responsible for mediating several functions in the body of your pet. By activating the ECS, HHC enhances the response to diseases in pets.
Relief from anxiety
Just like us, our pets can have mental health problems at times. Researchers say that anxiety is normal but can have disastrous consequences in some pets.
Causes of anxiety in pets:
- Separation from owners or trainers
- Fear: Fear due to loud noises, changes in the environment, and exposure to new things.
- Aging: As animals age, their cognitive and motor abilities reduce, making them feel insecure. Senior canines have this kind of anxiety.
So, how can HHC kill anxiety?
As we know, HHC works similarly to THC in relieving anxiety. HHC is less potent and does not have any psychoactive effects at smaller doses. The anxiolytic effects of HHC reduce panting and drooling associated with increased fear.
The endocannabinoid system mediates several functions in the body. One of them is the regulation of salivary secretion. As pets become anxious, they start drooling. Eventually, this can lead to dehydration. HHC activates the endocannabinoid system and reduces drooling.
Treats and gummies infused with HHC are available in the market today. Caretakers of dogs with separation anxiety can use these to bring the animal close to them. As HHC calms down the nerves, aggressive behavior also reduces.
Promotes better sleep
Generally, sleeplessness in dogs is due to other underlying medical conditions. They can be both physical and mental issues. Arthritic and other pains due to inflammation can disrupt sleep.
By working on these triggers, HHC can help improve sleep quality. Oils infused with cannabinoids can help cure sleep apnea in pets.
Improves overall health
HHC improves the overall health of your pet. Research says HHC interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain and enhances cognitive connection.
Reportedly, pets become more active with regular cannabinoid consumption.
Things you should know
HHC products are safe and legal. But, THC is still not safe for your furry friends as it can have psychoactive effects on them. Scientists say that THC toxicity can have adverse health consequences, and pet owners should be careful while choosing the products.
If the products contain contaminants and other toxic chemicals, they can remain in the fat deposits for up to a week. Dilated pupils and reduced heart rate are some of the side effects. In some, it can lead to impairment of cognitive abilities.
So, how do you choose the right products?
- Third-party lab tested: Not all products have the correct labels. A third-party lab test can be helpful to ensure that the product is free of toxic substances.
- Non-GMO
- 100 % natural constituents
Also, you can seek advice from a professional before giving any HHC product to your pet.
The HHC market is evolving with new and innovative products coming up every day. Of them, oils and tinctures are among the favorites. HHC-infused treats are also available. Innovation in products is making HHC consumption easier for pets.
The bottom line
Every pet is different. If your pet is taking medications for other medical conditions, get a professional’s advice before giving HHC to your pets.
No research proof says HHC interacts with other medications. Even accidental overdose can have unpleasant effects. As a pet owner, you have to choose a product carefully before giving it to your pet.