The Ultimate Guide to Taking CBD Tinctures

You might have heard and seen how the health and wellness industry continues to buzz with excitement over CBD or cannabidiol. It can be found in almost everything, including pet products, chocolates, suntan lotions, and more. CBD-based products, especially oils, can save humans and pets from mood imbalances and physical discomfort.

You might be aware of the CBD oils' benefits and usage. But do you know how beneficial thc tinctures can be? Different varieties of CBD tinctures available out there play an important role in maintaining health and wellness. CBD tinctures are a highly concentrated form of CBD and one of the most popular methods of consuming CBD.

But what is a CBD tincture, how does it differ from CBD oil, and how can you take it? This guide will help you uncover a few things about CBD tinctures.

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is the natural cannabinoid compound found in the marijuana or cannabis/hemp plant. It is usually found in the flowers, buds, and other parts of the cannabis plant, but not the seeds. Moreover, unlike its counterpart, delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not contain psychoactive properties and, thus, does not get you high. 

Most of the CBD in the US is procured from hemp, the marijuana plant's cousin. Since CBD is structurally similar to endocannabinoids, it is believed to stimulate certain receptors in the body, like CB1 and CB2, by interacting with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). ECS can help the body maintain internal balance and promote overall wellness.

CBD Oil vs. CBD Tincture

Many often confuse 'CBD oils with 'CBD tinctures.' However, there are a few key differences between these two. Understanding them can aid you in making the right decision about which product is better suited for your needs.

CBD Oil

A concentrated form of cannabidiol, CBD oil is extracted from high-CBD-low-THC strains of industrial hemp. It means most CBD products will not have THC compared to marijuana-based ones. Two ingredients, i.e., CO2-extracted CBD essence and a 'Carrier' oil like olive, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT), coconut, or hemp seed oil, are used to produce CBD oil. The carrier oil dilutes the CBD extract, making it easier for individuals to consume. 

CBD oil can also be used in conjecture to many products, including organic CBD gummies, capsules, and topical creams to enhance the results.

CBD Tinctures

Traditionally, herbal tinctures were made by steeping plant material in alcohol for several weeks. Regarding CBD tinctures, hemp flowers or buds are steeped in alcohol or another solvent for weeks to extract the active compound, resulting in a highly concentrated solution. 

Next, during the filtering process, most of the alcohol or solvent is evaporated, leaving a potent liquid containing CBD and other cannabinoids, along with terpenes and other plant compounds. This process is performed to protect the cannabinoids from oxidation. Furthermore, CBD or THC tinctures are often infused with additional ingredients like sweeteners, essential oils, or other herbal extracts to dilute their bitter, astringent taste. 

How to Take CBD Tincture?

CBD tinctures can only be taken orally and sublingually, meaning under your tongue. When taking the CBD tincture, see to it you are keeping the product under your tongue for 90 seconds to two minutes to avail of maximum benefit. The tincture goes through your digestive tract if you swallow it right away; thus, it takes longer to have any effect.

You should keep CBD tinctures under your tongue so that they can be absorbed by the blood vessels in your mouth. Doing this will help it to work quicker, often in 15 minutes to an hour.

Remember that a small amount can go a long way while providing maximum benefits. Now that CBD tinctures are highly concentrated, you typically need a tiny amount. Also, make sure to buy the best CBD tinctures for effective results.

With tinctures, some CBD can also go through your digestive tract. In such a case, you should eat high-fat food simultaneously to speed up the effect. 

CBD Tinctures Dosage

CBD tinctures from reputed CBD hemp stores usually have a marked dropper (often 0.5 or 1 milliliter) to help people consume calibrated dosages. You should pay attention to how much CBD is in each dropperful and take the quantity as your healthcare professional suggests or as mentioned on the label. It is better to start low and go slow to minimize the risk of side effects.

What Can You Use CBD Tinctures For?

People use the best CBD tinctures to treat various health conditions, from anxiety and stress to insomnia. But some even use them for general wellness. 

As per a 2018 survey, 62% of respondents reported taking CBD to treat medical conditions, most commonly anxiety, depression, and pain. In addition, people also said they used it for migraines, arthritis, seizures, and inflammatory diseases. 

Is CBD Tincture Safe?

CBD or THC tincture is safe as long as you use high-quality and certified products from a trustworthy CBD hemp store. When taken in high dosage, CBD can interact with your other medications (if you take any). So, before you try any product, make sure to consult with your healthcare professional, especially if you have other health problems. In addition, go through the list of potential drug interactions presented by the National Library of Medicine.

How to Buy CBD Tinctures?

If you reside in a state where CBD is legal and licensed, consider contacting a healthcare professional or visiting a reputed CBD online store, subject to certain standards. When buying CBD tinctures, check if it has COA (certificate of analysis). This certificate verifies that a third-party independent lab has tested the product and confirmed the ingredients.

Summing it up

While CBD oils and CBD tinctures offer somewhat similar benefits, they are different from one another, and you can't overlook their individual effects. CBD tinctures are made via liquid solvent extraction, providing calm and relaxing effects. Moreover, you can take these CBD products orally and sublingually. 

When buying CBD or THC tincture, always get it from a reliable and recognized CBD online store. In addition, check the product's quality and certification to ensure you have superior quality, third-party-tested tincture.