With Cannabis products, there is a variety of choices available to consumers. And Newbies wanting to use these products are anxious to know the differences. So, what are the differences between Topicals, Tinctures, Edibles, and Concentrates in this case?
What’s The Difference Between Topicals, Tinctures, Edibles And Concentrates?
“Topical,” “tincture,” “edible,” and “concentrate” are names used by Medical Cannabis Dispensaries. These terms describe the variety of Cannabis-infused products ingested orally for therapeutic relief.
Topicals — A topical is produced by infusion of Cannabis extracts for making a balm, oil, salve, or lotion. They are applied to the skin for localized relief of discomfort, pain, or inflammation. Topicals are applied directly to the skin, which delivers THC- cannabinoids compounds for symptomatic relief. In effect, the THC compounds make their way to the patient’s bloodstream. As a result, these THC compounds provide instantaneous relief for muscle soreness and pain.
Tincture — A tincture is a liquid extract of Cannabis-infused into some base (liquid or oil). As a result, it can be taken orally by drops under the tongue or added to food or drinks for quick relief. These ailments are chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety, or nausea. Tinctures are often alcohol-based products (think Everclear-type hooch).
(Editor’s note: The term “tincture” refers to the Cannabis extract infused with an alcohol solution. And such extracts are in liquid form as part of a topical or edible preparation. The base type used in topical preparations defines the term “tincture.”)
Additional Information On Topicals, Tinctures, Edibles And Concentrates
Edibles — Edibles are any form of food (or drink, for that matter) infused with Cannabis. The Cannabis infusion is through direct blending into foods or drinks; And, simultaneously, through the addition of concentrated Cannabis oil. Edibles can contain non-psychoactive CBD “carrier” oils. (such as coconut oil). The infusion is for diluting heavily concentrated THC – cannabinoids for easy digestion.
(Editor’s note: Recent Colorado, Washington, and Oregon Laws require all Cannabis edibles producers to be infused with “hemp oil extracts.” The hemp oil does not contain high percentages of THC. Neither does hemp contain the psychoactive compounds of Cannabis. The psychoactive compounds are what get people high. Knowing that the safest edible on the market, purchasing a bottle of CBD oil at your local Cannabis Dispensary is the right move.
Concentrate — Concentrates are bubble hash and live Resins, potent doses of Cannabis. Manufacturing concentrates use the method of sifting through a mesh the dried flowers. The mesh screen separates leaves and flowers and retains Cannabis trichomes. The trichomes are the glossy, sticky glands of the plant. The sticky glands of the plant can make Resin.
The patient’s consumption of these concentrates are methods of smoking or vaping. As a result, they are excellent in food or drinks for “dabbing” or used in a topical.
Why Do People Use Topicals?
Cannabis Topicals products contain the broadest range of indications. As a result, these indications are beneficial for treating localized pain, inflammation wounds, and burns. Cannabis Topicals are excellent for relieving muscle soreness, cramps, or temporary aches and pains.
What Are The Benefits Of Ingesting Cannabis Via Topical Application?
Topicals deliver highly concentrated doses of cannabinoids into the bloodstream quickly (via absorption through the skin). Which consequently provides the localized action which is effective for the relief of medical symptoms. These symptoms are; muscle soreness, cramps, or temporary aches and pains.
What Are The Most Common Topical Uses?
Patients can use Topicals to relieve Muscle soreness after vigorous exercises. Topicals products containing high percentages of CBD are effective in this regard. Many topicals users report pain relief within minutes of application which lasts for hours.
Joint and muscle pains — Topicals often provide localized and deep-tissue relief for injured or overworked muscles, joints, and limbs. Some users experience immediate pain relief. And at the same time, some patients experience delayed effects. If users experience time delay in effects, they should wait a while and re-apply for good measure. And, patients can speak with their doctor or Cannabis Dispensary personnel about alternative treatments.
Nausea and vomiting — Topicals with low amounts of THC are ideal for nausea anti-emetics. And there are other more psychoactive topicals available that can effect relief. As a result, one such relief is suppressing the urge to vomit.
Inflammation relief — Topicals effectively relieve muscle soreness and pains related to injuries or over-exertion.
What’s The Difference Between Topicals, Tinctures, Edibles And Concentrates?
All Topicals are Cannabis infuse rubs excellent for direct application to the skin. As a result, these applications are easily and quickly absorbed through the skin. They do not produce “high” or intoxicating effects. And are excellent to treat conditions like muscle pain, arthritis, and psoriasis.
Tinctures are liquid Cannabis-infused products. These consumers can consume orally. They usually contain high THC levels and can produce “high” effective relief in users.
Edibles are any food or drink that contains Cannabis. Edibles are products containing marijuana flowers, concentrates, or oil extracts.
Concentrates are extracts from marijuana flowers or leaves and contain very high levels of THC. And for the most part, users can consume concentrates and enjoy by vaping, smoking a bong, or dab rig.
Some Cannabis users prefer smoking a pre-rolled joint. A pre-rolled joint is sold at any marijuana dispensary. They contain dried Cannabis flowers, which are crushed, and rolled. The rolled joint looks like a cigarette. These pre-rolled joints are more potent. Actually, some marijuana products on the market contain lower levels of THC for less experienced users. And these products are concentrates and topicals containing low levels of THC.
Conclusion
For new users of Cannabis who want to experience its psychoactive effects, you should choose a tincture, edible, or concentrate. This being said, for a smoke, try a pre-rolled joint. With this in mind, Pre-rolled joints are the better choice for first-time Cannabis users. Topicals are great for treating muscle pain, arthritis, and psoriasis.
If you have any questions about the different Cannabis products, please don’t hesitate to contact us. With this in mind, we at The Stone; we’re here to help!
