There are many forms of cannabis products for sale at dispensaries including cannabis flower, vape pens, gummies, topicals, and more. Cannabis consumption can also be done through various methods depending on the product chosen. Medical marijuana patients have often shopped for herbal medicines such as tinctures to help their medical condition. Have you ever seen or wondered “what is a cannabis tincture?”
Canna tinctures are one of the most classic cannabis products. Read more to find out about using tinctures, how to use, and when you use them.
What Is a Cannabis Tincture?
Many people don’t like smoking or vaping cannabis. They may not like the way it affects their lungs, or they may not like how it feels. If you want to avoid smoking or vaping but still want to enjoy cannabis, consider a tincture.
A tincture is nothing more than a liquid cannabis extract. They are made by soaking cannabis plants in high-proof alcohol for several hours or days. In this process, the alcohol sucks the cannabinoids and other nutrients out of the plant.
The alcohol then evaporates and leaves behind a very rich and concentrated liquid extract. Cannabis may also be soaked in glycerin or oil to extract its cannabinoids. But most tinctures use alcohol.
Most tinctures look the same. They come in glass bottles with dropper tools for easy use. Usually these bottles are 1 ounce, but some may be larger.
The concentration of THC can vary. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the cannabinoid that produces a psychoactive high when consumed. Most cannabis edibles cannot contain more than 100 mg of THC.
But herbal medicine tinctures are not considered food items. A tinctures THC content can be higher than food items. This is why they can have more than 100 mg of THC.
The Details
Products may have different THC concentrations.
Some may have very small concentrations, which is better for those who are new to cannabis. Others may have very strong concentrations, which are better for seasoned cannabis users. Many people confuse cannabis tinctures and oils, but they are not the same.
Cannabis oils do not use alcohol during the production process. This gives them a different flavor and smell. Cannabis oils are also more commonly used in foods and drinks for this reason.
Cannabis oils usually use CO2 for the extraction process rather than alcohol. Both oils and tinctures work similarly once inside the body. They will both produce a high as long as there is enough THC present.
Some people like to use tinctures before going to bed because it helps them relax and fall asleep. Others may prefer to use them throughout the day as a supplement. Some people feel more creative or alert when using tinctures.
How to Enjoy Cannabis Tinctures
Cannabis tinctures are very easy to use. Most of the tincture bottles come with dropper tools. This makes it easy to pick up as much of the extract as you want.
Most people use this product sublingually. This means you put the liquid under your tongue, but you do not swallow it. Holding the liquid under your tongue will allow the cannabis to seep through the thin membranes under your tongue.
Through those membranes, the cannabis would enter the blood vessels in the area and then travel through the blood to the brain. It takes effect once there is interaction with the endocannabinoid system in the brain.
Taking Tinctures
You can also try swallowing cannabis tinctures, but this is not recommended.
This is because they do not taste very good due to the residual presence of alcohol. Letting your stomach acid digest the drops may also destroy some of the cannabis which leads to a weaker high.
It is recommended to keep track of the dosage when you use tinctures, and avoid taking too much cannabis at once. The bottle should have dosage instructions on the label.
While you can’t overdose on cannabis, you can experience some unpleasant side effects. These effects include dizziness, anxiety, nausea, and fatigue. It is best to stick with small doses, especially if you are a beginner.
You can then build up from there and find the right dosage for you. Once you’re more comfortable, you can experiment with different brands. Different brands have different ways of refining cannabis.
Others may have stronger doses as well. Exploring your options is a great way to find the right product for your needs.
Benefits of Tinctures
Tinctures have many benefits and some consider it one of the healthiest ways to consume cannabis.
Dosing
Using cannabis tinctures are more reliable than smoking flower or edibles because you can consistently dose yourself every time. If you’re a beginner to cannabis, take the smallest dose to find the minimum effective dose to help with your medical condition.
Privacy
Tinctures are odorless which means nobody will smell that you are using cannabis. They are also very portable since they come in a small oil bottle and can be easily put in a bag or pocket for travel. If you are traveling or need a discreet way to use cannabis, this is a great option.
Fast Acting
Tinctures start working fast, within 15 minutes within absorption. If it is used topically for pain relief, it can also activate in 10-15 minutes.
Long Shelf Life
When properly stored, sealed in a cool dark place away from heat, and oxygen, they can last for a very long time. Tinctures made with glycerine will degrade faster than an alcohol based tincture. However, the bottle should have instructions for its shelf life.
Health Benefits
Tinctures can provide chronic pain relief and help reduce inflammation. They can also help with depression and anxiety. Some studies have shown they can help reduce cancer-related symptoms. Studies have also shown they may help for anti-tumor and neuroprotective properties.
PrestoDoctor Can Help
Cannabis tinctures are sold in dispensaries, and in many states you need a medical marijuana card to purchase cannabis products. Also, some states only sell tincture to medical cannabis patients, or only at medical marijuana dispensaries. To ensure you are able to get medical cannabis products, it is best to get your medical marijuana ID card.
PrestoDoctor can help you get your medical cannabis card. Our qualified medical doctors are all online, which means you can do the appointment from the comfort of your own home. The appointment should take about 15-30 minutes and we will help you with anything additionally post-appointment. Our doctors are licensed, HIPAA certified doctors, with 100% confidentiality.
Make an appointment today, we often have same-day appointments available or you can schedule a time for a later date.
