Cannabis is an extremely versatile plant, taking on a wide range of forms to offer. One such form is a cannabis tincture, a type of cannabis-infused product with a long history that dates back generations. Convenient, user-friendly, and smoke-free, tinctures offer an option that appeals to anyone.
What are cannabis tinctures?
Usually packaged in glass bottles with droppers, tinctures are generally produced by steeping cannabis or isolates in high-proof alcohol and then applying low heat to burn off the alcohol and infuse the active compounds into the liquid. The result is a potent concoction delivering the effects of the cannabinoid in a few simple drops.
Interestingly, tinctures were the primary form of cannabis-based medicine for decades, up until the United States outlawed cannabis. Now, as many states legalize medicinal and/or recreational cannabis consumption, tinctures have made an impressive comeback.
How do cannabis tinctures work?
According to Ethos, tinctures are known as “biphasic,” which means there are two ways in which they take effect. The first phase is when a tincture is absorbed under the tongue. This is known as “sublingual” consumption. The second phase is ingestion when the remaining tincture is swallowed, and the remaining compounds are digested.
Why cannabis tinctures?
Cannabis tinctures offer a fast-acting, smokeless method of consumption. They are also effective for many consumers, largely due to their rapid onset, significant duration of effects, discretion, and easy-to-control doses. Tinctures are also versatile and can be added to a wide variety of foods and beverages.
Rapid onset: Because tinctures absorb directly into the bloodstream through the mouth and tongue, it begins to take effect within 15 minutes. This is beneficial for consumers who need fast relief from their symptoms.
Long lasting: Tinctures effects have a speedier onset than eating an edible. This also means tinctures last longer than smoking flower, but may metabolize faster than an edible made with fats, like baked goods.
Discreet: Tinctures are extremely discreet products. Simply use the eyedropper to place the tincture in your mouth, replace the lid, and put your tincture away. There is no extensive prep required to use a tincture.
Precise Dosing: If you smoke cannabis or consume some types of cannabis, it can be difficult to know exactly how much THC or CBD you might get. With tinctures, the cannabinoids are suspended in a carrier substance. Therefore, you can get a good idea of how many milligrams you are getting.
How to use tinctures?
The general rule is to start out with a low dose and adjust as needed to achieve the desired effects. Most people take tinctures by placing their dose under the tongue and waiting around 20 to 30 seconds before swallowing. This allows the cannabinoids to get into the bloodstream within 10 to 15 minutes. You can simply swallow the tincture as well, just keep in mind the effects can take a little longer to kick in, possibly up to an hour or more. Tinctures can also be added to numerous foods and beverages!
Cannabis tinctures offer a simple way to receive the medical benefits of the plant without having to be a smoker.
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