What Are Cannabis Tinctures and How to Use Them

Cannabis tinctures are making a comeback as one of the most versatile and discreet ways to consume cannabis. Known for their quick onset and ease of use, tinctures have become a favourite among both medicinal and recreational users. Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned consumer, understanding what tinctures are, how they work, and how to use them effectively can open up a world of possibilities. In this guide, we’ll explore what cannabis tinctures are, how to use them, and the many benefits they offer.

What Are Cannabis Tinctures?

Cannabis tinctures are liquid extracts made by soaking cannabis flowers or concentrates in a solvent, typically alcohol or a carrier oil like MCT oil. This extraction method pulls out the active compounds, such as cannabinoids (THC, CBD) and terpenes, leaving behind a potent and easily dosable liquid. Tinctures are one of the oldest forms of cannabis medicine, with roots dating back to the early 20th century when they were a common remedy in pharmacies. Today, tinctures have seen a resurgence thanks to their effectiveness and the discretion they provide.

Unlike smoking or vaping, tinctures don’t produce any odor, making them an excellent option for those who prefer a low-profile method of consumption. They are also ideal for users who want precise dosing, as most tinctures come with a dropper that allows you to measure out exact amounts. Tinctures are typically sold in small, dark glass bottles to protect the extract from light and heat, preserving its potency over time.

The cannabinoids in tinctures are already decarboxylated, meaning they are in their active form and ready to be absorbed by the body. This makes tinctures fast-acting, especially when taken sublingually (under the tongue). Depending on the cannabis strain and extraction method used, tinctures can vary in flavor, with some having a strong herbal or earthy taste and others being more neutral. Popular strains used for tinctures include ACDC for a high-CBD, non-psychoactive experience and Sour Diesel for a more energizing and uplifting effect.

How to Use Cannabis Tinctures

Using cannabis tinctures is straightforward and offers flexibility in how you consume them. The most common way is sublingual administration, which involves placing a few drops of the tincture under your tongue and holding it there for about 30-60 seconds before swallowing. This method allows the cannabinoids to be absorbed directly into your bloodstream through the mucous membranes in your mouth, resulting in faster onset times compared to edibles. Typically, you can expect to feel the effects within 15-45 minutes, making tinctures an excellent option for those who want quick relief.

If you’re looking for a longer-lasting effect, you can also add tinctures to your food or beverages. Mixing a few drops into your morning smoothie, coffee, or salad dressing can mask the herbal taste and provide a slow, steady release of cannabinoids. However, keep in mind that when consumed this way, tinctures act more like edibles, meaning it can take up to 1-2 hours for the effects to kick in. The duration of the high will also be longer, often lasting 4-8 hours.

Dosing is another crucial aspect of using cannabis tinctures effectively. Most tincture bottles come with a graduated dropper, making it easy to measure your dose in milliliters (ml). The potency of tinctures can vary, so it’s essential to read the label and understand how much THC or CBD is in each dropperful. Beginners should start with a small dose, usually around 2.5-5 mg of THC or 10-15 mg of CBD, and gradually increase as needed. Since tinctures are so easy to adjust, they are perfect for microdosing, which involves taking small, controlled doses to achieve the desired effect without feeling overly high.

Tinctures are also popular for medicinal use, providing targeted relief for conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and inflammation. For example, a high-CBD tincture made from Charlotte’s Web is often used to manage anxiety without the psychoactive effects of THC. On the other hand, a THC-dominant tincture from a strain like Blue Dream can be used for pain relief or to boost mood and creativity.

Benefits of Using Cannabis Tinctures

Cannabis tinctures come with several benefits that make them an appealing choice for a wide range of users. One of the most significant advantages is precise dosing. Unlike smoking or vaping, where the amount of cannabinoids absorbed can be hard to measure, tinctures give you complete control. This makes them ideal for people who need to manage their dosage carefully, such as medical patients or those new to cannabis who want to start low and go slow.

Another major benefit is the discretion tinctures provide. The small, portable bottles can be carried in your bag or pocket and used almost anywhere without drawing attention. There’s no smoke, no vapor, and no lingering odor, making tinctures one of the most inconspicuous ways to consume cannabis. They are also incredibly versatile; whether you need immediate relief or a more extended effect, tinctures can be adjusted to fit your needs.

Tinctures also offer a healthier alternative to inhaling cannabis. For people with respiratory issues or those who prefer to avoid smoking, tinctures are a lung-friendly option that still delivers potent effects. Additionally, because they are absorbed more efficiently through the mouth’s mucous membranes, tinctures have higher bioavailability compared to edibles. This means you’ll get more of the active compounds into your bloodstream, making tinctures a cost-effective option.

For those who use cannabis for medicinal purposes, tinctures can be easily incorporated into daily routines. For instance, a person suffering from arthritis might take a high-CBD tincture in the morning to manage inflammation and a balanced THC/CBD tincture in the evening to help with sleep. Similarly, someone using cannabis for anxiety might carry a low-dose tincture with them for use throughout the day as needed. Strains like Pineapple Express are popular for daytime use, providing uplifting and stress-relieving effects, while strains like OG Kush work well in the evening for unwinding and relaxation.

Conclusion

Cannabis tinctures are a versatile, discreet, and effective way to experience the benefits of cannabis. Whether you’re using them for medicinal relief or recreational enjoyment, understanding how to dose and administer tinctures is key to a successful experience. With options to take them sublingually or incorporate them into your favourite foods and drinks, tinctures offer flexibility that suits a variety of needs. From potent THC tinctures made with strains like Sour Diesel to soothing CBD tinctures from Charlotte’s Web, there’s something for everyone. Start low, go slow, and find the balance that works for you to make the most of this timeless cannabis remedy. If you have any questions, our customer support team is readily available and here to help!