Tinctures have been a prevalent way to consume herbal medicines since time immemorial. As marijuana legalization spreads across the world, cannabis tinctures have become a popular method for consuming cannabis products for both medicinal purposes like pain relief and a quick high.
Although they are becoming increasingly popular, many marijuana consumers remain unfamiliar with how cannabis tinctures work. This article explores the world of tinctures, covering everything from how to make THC tinctures to understanding their benefits and various uses.
What is a Cannabis Tincture?
A cannabis tincture is simply a marijuana extract made by infusing a liquid like glycerin with cannabis. The result is a potent, concentrated solution that contains the active compounds found in marijuana. Cannabis tinctures are not meant for vaping or smoking. Consequently, they may not seem as fun to use as weed vapes or dabs.
Nevertheless, cannabis tinctures have numerous health benefits and offer a comfortable, relaxing experience. Similarly, using tinctures provides a discreet and versatile weed consumption option for marijuana users with a rapid onset of effects.
Cannabis tinctures usually come in 30-milliliter tincture bottles with droppers for administering small, consistent doses. Plus, although they must be consumed in order to be effective, tinctures are not classified as foods. Consequently, tincture packaging products are not subject to the same regulations as packaging for edibles. Similarly, tinctures can exceed the 100 mg THC cap on edibles.
How to Use or Take Cannabis Tinctures
Learning how to use tinctures correctly is vital if you’re a beginner to these marijuana products. Understanding the different ways to administer tinctures enables you to pick the most suitable one for you. Here’s a closer look at how to take tinctures.
Sublingual Administration
Sublingual administration is the quickest and most effective way to take cannabis tinctures. Pace the desired dose under your tongue and hold it there for about 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing. This method allows the tincture to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream, providing rapid onset of effects.
With Food and Beverages
Another method of taking cannabis tincture is by mixing it with various foods and drinks. Even so, since the cannabinoids must first go through the digestive system, this method may lead to a slower onset of effects. Additionally, learning how to store edibles can come in handy when you want to keep your tincture-infused food or beverage for later.
Topical Application
Some people use cannabis tinctures topically, applying them directly to the skin for localized relief of pain or inflammation. Although this method does not have the same psychoactive effects as sublingual administration or ingestion, it still provides therapeutic benefits.
Can You Cook With Cannabis Tinctures
The short answer is no. Cannabis tinctures are already decarboxylated, and exposing them to high heat may render them useless from a medical standpoint. If you wish to cook using cannabis, utilizing a weed butter maker will be more appropriate. Nevertheless, you can add the tincture to the finished dish by incorporating it in a sauce or dressing.
How to Make Cannabis Tinctures
Tinctures are among the easiest marijuana products to produce. They require very little equipment, and the process doesn’t need expert knowledge. For this reason, learning how to make cannabis tinctures shouldn’t be difficult. Here’s a look at how to make cannabis tinctures and what you’ll need to do it.
Ingredients:
- A quarter or half an ounce of decarboxylated cannabis (adjust based on the desired potency)
- 2 cups of high-proof alcohol (such as Everclear) or food-grade vegetable glycerin
Equipment:
- Mason jar with lid
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Funnel
- Amber or blue glass dropper bottles for storage
Instructions:
Step 1: Decarboxylate your Cannabis
Preheat your oven to 115°C. Grind your cannabis and spread it evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, occasionally stirring to ensure even heating. This process activates the cannabinoids, making them more bioavailable.
Step 2: Combine Cannabis and Solvent
Place the decarboxylated cannabis in a mason jar and add the alcohol or glycerin. Ensure the cannabis is fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly.
Step 3: Infuse the Tincture
Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking it daily to encourage extraction. The longer the infusion period, the stronger the tincture will be.
Step 4: Strain the Tincture
After the infusion period, place a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a clean container and pour the contents of the jar through it, separating the plant matter from the liquid. Press the plant matter to extract as much liquid as possible.
Step 5: Bottle and Store
Transfer the strained tincture into amber or blue glass dropper bottles using a funnel. Label the bottles with the date and potency if known. Store the tincture in a cool, dark place to preserve its potency.
Step 6: Adjust the Potency
If you find that your tincture is too potent, you can dilute it using more alcohol or glycerin. Begin with a small amount and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired effects.
The Bottom Line
Cannabis tinctures are among the most effective and versatile ways to consume cannabis. Making your own tincture enables you to select an ideal potency level according to your preferences. Even so, remember to start with a low dose and increase gradually to find the ideal dosage for your body with the desired effects.
