Table of contents
- Definitions – what do these abbreviations mean?
- How do these substances work in vapes?
- Effects of CBD vapes (non-psychoactive)
- Effects of HHC vapes (mildly psychoactive)
- Effects of THC vapes (classic psychoactive)
- Overview of the differences: CBD vs HHC vs THC vs TAC
- What should you look for when buying vape products?
- Legal framework in Germany & Switzerland
- Conclusion – Which vape is right for you?
Vapes with cannabinoids are more popular today than ever. But not every cannabinoid has the same effect—and not every substance serves the same purpose. If you understand CBD, HHC, THC, and TAC, it’s way easier to find the product that fits your needs.
In this post, you’ll get a clear overview of the effects, intensity, legal status, and uses of the different vape types.
Definitions – what do these abbreviations mean?
What is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. It’s often used to reduce stress, relax the body, or boost general well-being. CBD doesn’t get you “high” and is legal in many countries.
CBD vapes are seen as a gentle option for people who want to relax without getting buzzed.
What is THC?
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the most well-known psychoactive compound in cannabis. It creates the classic “high,” can trigger stronger physical and mental sensations, and is used both medically and recreationally.
Depending on the country, THC vapes are strictly regulated or illegal.
What is HHC?
HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid made from CBD. Its effects are between CBD and THC: mildly psychoactive, relaxing, and often described as a “softer high.”
A lot of people go for HHC vapes because they want a noticeable but not overwhelming effect.
What does TAC mean?
TAC stands for “Total Active Cannabinoids”—meaning the total amount of active cannabinoids in a product.
TAC does not refer to a single cannabinoid, but to a sum:
A high TAC value means the product offers a broad spectrum of cannabinoids—which often leads to a stronger or more complex effect (entourage effect).
How do these substances work in vapes?
Effects of CBD vapes (non-psychoactive)
- relaxing
- reduces stress
- loosens up the body
- no buzz or high
- good for everyday use, focus & calming down
Effects of HHC vapes (mildly psychoactive)
- slightly euphoric
- relaxing
- gentle, controlled high
- popular for after-work moments
- often easier on you than THC
Effects of THC vapes (classic psychoactive)
- strongly euphoric
- intense perception
- feeling physically “stoned” or “high”
- higher risk of side effects
- only available in legal markets
TAC – how does it affect the overall experience?
TAC-rich vapes combine several cannabinoids, making the effects more rounded, complex, and often stronger.
Example: A THC vape with CBG, CBC, and CBD in the TAC profile can feel very different from pure THC.
Overview of the differences: CBD vs HHC vs THC vs TAC
Effects & intensity
- CBD: mild, relaxing, no high
- HHC: moderately psychoactive, pleasant high
- THC: strongly psychoactive
- TAC: depends on the mix—often stronger and broader effects
Legal status & risks
- CBD: mostly legal
- HHC: regulated differently depending on the country
- THC: often illegal or strictly controlled for medical use
- TAC: depends on which cannabinoids are included
Typical users / use cases
- CBD vapes: relaxation, focus, wellness
- HHC vapes: mild psychoactivity without a strong high
- THC vapes: intense recreational use
- TAC vapes: experienced users who want a full-spectrum profile
What should you look for when buying vape products?
Labeling & ingredients
A good product clearly shows:
- which cannabinoid is included
- the amount of each
- TAC info
- terpenes used
- lab analysis (COA)
Quality & safety
- Look for:
- verified lab tests
- no fillers like vitamin E acetate
- reputable brands
- high-quality cartridges
Dosage & tips for beginners
- CBD: totally beginner-friendly
- HHC: try 1–2 puffs
- THC: only in legal markets and dose carefully
- TAC vapes: for experienced users
Legal framework in Germany & Switzerland
Germany
- CBD: legal
- HHC: currently legally unclear, partly regulated
- THC: mostly illegal, medical use possible
- TAC: depends on THC content
Switzerland
- CBD: legal (up to 1% THC)
- HHC: partly tolerated, regulations ongoing
- THC: over 1% THC is illegal, allowed for medical use
- TAC products: legal status depends on THC content
Conclusion – Which vape is right for you?
- For relaxation without a high: CBD
- For a light, pleasant high: HHC
- For an intense high: THC (only where legal)
- For complex effects: TAC profile
Each cannabinoid serves a different purpose—the better you understand the differences, the easier it is to find the right vape for your lifestyle.
