With the development of the cannabis industry, many cannabis concentrates, cannabis-derived compounds, and various cannabis smoking kits have been derived.
Today I want to introduce you to Cannabis tinctures, with the tincture being one of the earliest documented in The Al-Qanoon fi al Tibb (The Canon of Medicine) dating back to 1025. Over the centuries, countless advancements have been made, but one thing remains true: a high-quality product made from excellent cannabis is always in fashion.
What is Cannabis Tincture 101
Cannabis tincture is a liquid extract of the cannabis plant that is created using alcohol or another solvent. It is a highly concentrated form of cannabis that can be ingested orally or added to food and beverages.
Due to its versatility of use, cannabis tinctures are among the more popular products on the market, which can be taken orally or with beverages and foods, and offer a variety of health benefits while providing a comfortable and intoxicating experience.
How to Make Cannabis Tinctures
The making of cannabis tincture is relatively easy so most people can make it at home, here is a step-by-step guide to making cannabis tincture.
Choose your cannabis. Decide on the type and strain of cannabis you want to use for your tincture. It is important to use high quality dried cannabis flower that has been properly cured.
Decarboxylate the cannabis. In order to activate the tetrahydrocannabinol and other cannabinoids in cannabis, you need to heat it. This process is known as decarboxylation. Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Spread the cannabis on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until it is dry and slightly browned.
Mix the cannabis and alcohol together. Once the cannabis has cooled, add it to a pot or bottle containing a high concentration of alcohol, such as vodka or Everclear. the ratio of cannabis to alcohol will depend on the potency you want to achieve. A common ratio is one ounce of marijuana to one pint of alcohol.
Shake and store. After mixing the cannabis and alcohol, shake the jar or bottle well. Store in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks, shaking daily.
Strain and bottle. After two weeks, strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible and discard the plant material. Transfer the tincture to a small bottle with a dropper for easy measuring.
Labeling and storage. Label the bottles with the strain, potency and date of preparation. Store the tincture in a cool, dark place out of direct sunlight.
How Cannabis Tinctures work
Cannabis tinctures work by delivering cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, to the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex system of receptors and neurotransmitters that is involved in regulating a variety of physiological processes, including pain sensation, mood, appetite, and immune function.
When consumed orally, cannabis tinctures are absorbed into the bloodstream and travel to the ECS, where they interact with cannabinoid receptors. THC primarily binds to CB1 receptors, which are primarily located in the brain and central nervous system, leading to the characteristic psychoactive effects of cannabis. CBD, on the other hand, has a weaker affinity for CB1 receptors and instead binds to other receptors in the ECS, such as CB2 receptors, which are primarily located in the immune system and peripheral tissues.
The interaction between the cannabinoids in the tincture and the ECS can lead to a range of effects, depending on the specific cannabinoid profile and dosage of the tincture. For example, THC can produce a sense of euphoria, while CBD may have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. In addition, some studies have suggested that cannabis tinctures may be effective in relieving pain, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep.
How to Use
Cannabis tinctures can be used in a variety of ways, but the most common method is to take them orally. Here are the steps to use cannabis tinctures:
1. Shake the tincture bottle well before use to ensure that the cannabinoids are evenly distributed.
2. Using the dropper provided, place the desired amount of tincture under your tongue. Hold the tincture in your mouth for about 30 seconds before swallowing.
3. Alternatively, you can add the tincture to food or drink, such as a smoothie or tea, to mask the taste.
4. Wait for the effects to kick in. The onset of the effects can vary depending on the individual and dosage, but typically, the effects of cannabis tinctures can be felt within 15-45 minutes of consumption.
5. Adjust the dosage as needed. It's always recommended to start with a low dosage and gradually increase as needed while monitoring the effects closely.
It's important to note that the effects of cannabis tinctures can vary widely depending on factors such as dosage, individual tolerance, and method of consumption. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using cannabis tinctures, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.
What Benefits of Tinctures?
Cannabis tinctures offer a number of potential benefits for those who use them. Some of the benefits of cannabis tinctures include:1. Easy to use: Cannabis tinctures are simple to use and can be easily added to food or drink, or taken sublingually, making them a convenient option for those who want a discreet and easy way to consume cannabis.
2. Accurate dosing: Tinctures are typically sold with a dropper, which allows for accurate dosing and helps users to control the amount of cannabis they consume.
3. Fast-acting: When taken sublingually, cannabis tinctures can have a rapid onset of effects, making them a good option for those who need quick relief.
4. Versatile: Cannabis tinctures can be made with different strains of cannabis and in different cannabinoid profiles, which allows users to choose a tincture that best suits their needs and preferences.
5. Discreet: Unlike smoking cannabis, using a tincture is a discreet way to consume cannabis, as it does not produce a strong odor or smoke.
6. Long shelf life: Cannabis tinctures have a longer shelf life than some other cannabis products, which makes them a good option for those who want to keep a supply on hand.
It's important to note that the benefits of cannabis tinctures can vary depending on the individual and the specific product being used. It's always recommended to start with a low dosage and gradually increase as needed while monitoring the effects closely. It's also important to consult with a healthcare professional before using cannabis tinctures, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.
