If you’re new to cannabis and curious about different ways to experience it, cannabis tinctures are a popular and beginner-friendly option. Tinctures offer a convenient and controlled way to try cannabis without the need to smoke or vaporize. Here’s everything you need to know about cannabis tinctures and how they might fit into your wellness routine.
What Are Cannabis Tinctures?
Cannabis tinctures are liquid extracts made by soaking cannabis in alcohol or oil, which pulls out the active compounds, such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), from the plant. The resulting liquid is bottled with a dropper, making it easy to measure your dose and place it under the tongue, where it’s quickly absorbed.
Tinctures can be made with either high-THC or high-CBD strains, depending on whether you’re seeking the psychoactive effects of THC or the therapeutic, non-psychoactive benefits of CBD. You can even find balanced THC:CBD tinctures for a mild effect that combines both cannabinoids.
Why Choose a Tincture?
For newcomers to cannabis, tinctures offer several advantages:
- Easy Dosing: The dropper allows you to control your dose more precisely than other methods, such as edibles or smoking.
- Fast-Acting: When taken sublingually (under the tongue), tinctures are absorbed quickly, with effects felt within 15–30 minutes.
- Discreet and Portable: Tinctures are odorless and easy to carry, making them ideal for discreet use.
- Versatile: Tinctures can be taken directly or added to foods and drinks for a customized experience.
How to Use a Cannabis Tincture
Using a cannabis tincture is simple. Start by shaking the bottle to ensure even distribution of cannabinoids. Place the desired number of drops under your tongue and hold it there for about 30–60 seconds before swallowing. This allows the cannabinoids to absorb through the mucous membrane, leading to faster onset than ingesting it directly.
If you’re new to cannabis, start with a small dose (1-2 drops or 2.5-5 mg of THC or CBD) and wait to see how it affects you before increasing the dose.
Effects of THC vs. CBD Tinctures
The effects you feel from a tincture will depend on the balance of THC and CBD in the product:
- THC Tinctures: THC is psychoactive and can produce a “high.” This may include feelings of euphoria, relaxation, or altered perception. THC tinctures are best taken in small doses if you’re new to cannabis.
- CBD Tinctures: CBD is non-psychoactive and offers a range of potential benefits, such as reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and relieving inflammation, without the high.
- Balanced THC:CBD Tinctures: These tinctures offer a mild high from THC alongside the calming effects of CBD, making them a great choice for balanced effects.
Finding the Right Tincture for You
To choose a tincture, consider your goals. For relaxation and a gentle high, a low-THC tincture might work best. If you’re looking for relief from anxiety or inflammation, a CBD tincture could be the right fit. Talk to dispensary staff for product recommendations based on your experience level.
Exploring Cannabis the Beginner-Friendly Way
Cannabis tinctures are a versatile, discreet, and easy-to-use method for newcomers. They offer control over dosage and effects, helping you ease into cannabis comfortably and at your own pace.