Cannabis Tinctures are an effective way to ingest and absorb cannabinoids. They were first created in the early 1900s because of the prohibition of cannabis in many countries as a valuable tool for doctors and patients. Patients could take it orally without smell or evidence that they ingested marijuana. With further research into its medical properties, it became apparent that this was a very effective way to administer cannabis.
They are typically made with ethyl alcohol or a glycerin base. Since the creation of hash oil in the early 1970s, people have advocated for “the best of both worlds,” and with good reason; the benefits of ingesting cannabinoids orally and the convenience of inhaling with a vaporizer or smoking. Today, many recipes include high-proof (100-160+) alcohol with other glycerin-based product.
What are its Benefits?
They offer several benefits to users, including ease of consumption and compliance, affordability, precise dosing, and increased bioavailability of cannabinoids. They are often taken sublingually which allows rapid absorption into the bloodstream.
Tinctures also have a long shelf life if stored properly and will usually remain potent for up to 2 years. They can be placed in gel capsules or soaked in sugar cubes, making them easier to consume. Most people compare the taste to rubbing alcohol, but some companies have added flavoring and extracts into the solution.
They can be taken orally for sublingual absorption, whether swallowed or placed under the tongue.
It has been reported that 30-60% of cannabinoids are absorbed compared to 10-25% when smoked or vaporized. Users have noted that the onset of effects is much more rapid than ingesting edibles or smoking cannabis, usually within 20 minutes. This is beneficial because if an immediate impact is desired, the user can easily titrate their dose to achieve the necessary results without over-medicating as a person would with edibles.
Cannabis tinctures offer a convenient, discreet, and easy way to consume cannabis. They are also an effective method for those who cannot or do not want to smoke. They are becoming increasingly popular as more people learn about their benefits.
What is the difference between CBD and THC tinctures?
THC and CBD are the two most popular cannabinoids in cannabis. THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana, while CBD does not produce any intoxication. CBD has been shown to have medicinal properties which include:
- Pain relief
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-anxiety
- Seizure control.
THC will produce the typical “high” associated with marijuana, while CBD will not. CBD can treat a wide variety of medical conditions without the psychoactive effects.
How are they made?
Tinctures are made by soaking marijuana in high-proof alcohol or a glycerin base. The ratio of cannabis to solvent is typically 1:5 or 1:10. For every gram of cannabis, 5-10 grams of alcohol or glycerin are used.
The mixture is then placed in a jar and let steep for 2-3 weeks, shaking occasionally. The tincture is strained after the steeping period using a cheesecloth or coffee filter and placed in a dark glass bottle.
Some recipes include adding additional ingredients such as essential oils or other extracts. This is not necessary but can improve the taste and smell of the tincture.
What is the difference between full-spectrum and isolated tinctures?
Full-spectrum tinctures contain cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids found in the cannabis plant. THC, CBD, CBN, CBC, CBG, and more. Isolates only contain CBD and no other cannabinoids.
Full-spectrum tinctures are believed to offer an ” entourage effect.” This means that all of the compounds work together to produce a more potent effect than anyone compound would on its own. Isolates are generally less expensive, but some users prefer the synergistic effects of the full spectrum.
How do I use a tincture?
Tinctures can be used in a variety of ways. The most common method is to place the desired amount under the tongue and hold it there for 30-60 seconds before swallowing. This allows the cannabinoids to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the sublingual artery.
They can also be added to food or drink. The effects will take longer to kick in when taken this way as the liver must first metabolize the cannabinoids. It is essential to start with a low dose when trying this method as it is easy to overmedicate.
Capsules can also be made by filling gel capsules with tincture. This is a convenient way to take a precise dose without measuring it each time.
What are the benefits of using tinctures?
Tinctures offer some advantages over other methods of consuming cannabis. They are easy to use, portable and discreet. Medicines can also be taken in minimal doses, making them ideal for microdosing.
Another benefit is that the effects kick in much faster than edibles. The cannabinoids are absorbed directly into the bloodstream instead of going through the liver first.
What are the side effects of using them?
The most common side effect is feeling “high.” This is because THC is the most abundant cannabinoid. Most CBD tinctures will not produce this effect.
Other side effects include dry mouth, red eyes, and impaired coordination. These side effects are typically mild and will go away after a few hours.
It is essential to start with a low dose as it is easy to overmedicate. The effects of remedies can also be unpredictable, so it is best to be cautious when trying them for the first time.
What are some common uses?
Tinctures can be used to treat various medical conditions. This includes:
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
- and more.!
They can also be used recreationally to produce a “high.”
How long do they last?
They will last for 2-3 years when stored in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration is not necessary but may prolong the shelf life. Once opened, it is best to use them within six months.
What are some tips for making them?
When making them, it is essential to use high-quality marijuana. This means using bud that has been trimmed of all leaves and stems. It should also be ground into a fine powder, use a coffee grinder or food processor for best results.
It is also essential to use high-proof alcohol like vodka or Everclear. This will ensure that all cannabinoids are extracted from the plant material.
When adding tinctures to food or drink, starting with a minimal amount is crucial.
Remedies are very concentrated, so it is easy to overmedicate. It is also important to remember that the effects will take longer to kick in when taken this way.
Capsules can be made by filling gel capsules with tincture. This is a convenient way to take a precise dose without measuring it each time.
What is the difference between tinctures and oil?
They are made by soaking marijuana in alcohol to extract the cannabinoids. Oil is made by extracting cannabinoids with a solvent like butane or CO2.
They are typically more potent than oil and will last longer when stored. They can also be taken in minimal doses, making them ideal for microdosing.
How do I store tinctures?
They should be stored in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration is not necessary but may prolong the shelf life. Once opened, it is best to use them within six months.
What are some common uses?
They can be used to treat various medical conditions, including pain, inflammation, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and more. They can also be used recreationally to produce a “high.”
Capsules can be made by filling gel capsules with tincture. This is a convenient way to take a precise dose without measuring it each time.
They can also be added to food or drink. It is essential to start with a minimal amount when doing this, as remedies are very concentrated. The effects will also take longer to kick in when taken this way.
