9 Things You Never Knew About Cannabis Tinctures

Cannabis tinctures are one of the best, most underrated delivery methods for cannabis. They provide a fast and efficient dosage of medicine with minimal effort.

And although tinctures date back well before the pre-Prohibition era, they are an unfamiliar delivery method for most people.

If you’re interested in learning more about this healthier ingestion method, here are 9 things you need to know about cannabis tinctures.

#1) Tinctures are an age-old remedy

Did you know tinctures were the primary form of pain relief before aspirin? In fact, cannabis tinctures were extremely popular before cannabis prohibition.

Cannabis infused extracts (tinctures) were listed in the U.S. Pharmacopeia as a treatment for several conditions including: tetanus, gout, tonsillitis, alcoholism, menstrual cramps, cholera, arthritis, and many others.

Patented cannabis tinctures were even sold over the counter in the early twentieth century.

#2) Tinctures provide dosage control

Cannabis tinctures are usually taken by placing a few drops under the tongue (sublingually). This method is great for those who need a rapid dose of medicine.

The infusion is immediately absorbed into the arterial system, making its way to the brain and body.

This makes dosing a breeze. Simply use a few drops and wait for the desired effects to take place. If more medicine is needed, additional drops can be added.

However, always start slow and move your dosage up with time.

#3) Cannabis tinctures come in different types

A tincture by definition is made with alcohol as the solvent. With cannabis however, you can also find tinctures made with MCT oil, glycerin and even olive oil (these are all technically elixirs).

While there is some debate in the cannabis universe about which type of tincture is best, you can’t go wrong with olive oil for better shelf life and a healthier option.

#4) Tinctures give you different cannabinoid options

What do you want to use your tincture for exactly? Are you targeting a specific condition or ailment? Maybe you want to use your tincture for preventative health or for adult-use?

One of the cool things about cannabis legalization is that it gives us access to many different types of tinctures – both psychoactive and non-psychoactive.

You can find THC-dominant tinctures. Or CBD tinctures, and even tinctures with the acidic cannabinoids THCA and CBDA.

All of these tinctures have different uses and benefits.

#5) Tinctures make a great topical

Most cannabis topicals have a lot of filler and a very low percentage of cannabinoids. Not the case with tinctures.

This is why tinctures can make great topicals.

For example, sprains or bruising respond really well to acid cannabinoid (THCA and CBDA) tinctures, according to anecdotal reports.

People have also had success using THCA for sunburns and other types of skin burns.

Others have found positive results using acid cannabinoids for daily facial care, or skin conditions like psoriasis.

#6) Tinctures are discreet

Need a low-key method for taking your medicine? Tinctures are inconspicuous. Unlike smoking a pipe or burning a joint, tinctures do not produce an odor.

So there’s no need to worry about finding a place to consume. Simply place a few drops under your tongue and you’re set.

Tinctures also don’t have a noticeable odor when stored, so you can easily carry it with you on the go.

Additionally, you can insert your tincture solution into gel capsules – which is what a lot of patients do when the dropper is not an option. Just keep in mind that swallowing your tincture as opposed to dropping it under the tongue basically turns it into an edible.

#7) Tinctures are low calorie

If you like edibles, infused desserts are no doubt delicious. Yet, they can also pack on the pounds if you’re not careful. A cannabis-infused brownie can contain up to 150 calories or more!

Tinctures offer a low-calorie alternative if you prefer to ingest your cannabis in this method and want to watch your weight.

#8) Tinctures offer efficient cannabinoid and terpene absorption

When you take your tinctures sublingually as opposed to ingesting this gets the medicine directly into your bloodstream.

As a result, the effects can usually be felt within as little as fifteen minutes and last two to three hours. And if the tincture is well-made, you’ll get a much more efficient cannabinoids/terpene absorption rate than any other consumption method.

Keep in mind that results do vary. Always check the potency before dosing. Start with a few drops initially and work your way up.

#9) Tinctures must be stored properly

Did you know heat and light deteriorate cannabinoids? Tinctures must be stored in cool temperatures in an airtight glass container. We recommend a dark glass dropper bottle.

Be sure to avoid plastic containers for storing your tincture. Always use a glass container and store it in at least room temperature for best results.