Combusting cannabis can be problematic for people with certain medical conditions. So, today we’re going to discuss an alternative to smoking that people have used for centuries in an effort to help you better navigate your plant medicine journey. Let’s talk TINCTURE.
A ‘Tincture’ is a variety of oil formulations that has been extracted from some organic matter – in our case, high-quality cannabis. Cannabis tinctures have been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, such as pain, anxiety, insomnia, inflammation and many others. Though cannabis tinctures were once commonly prescribed by doctors in the US, their use was halted in the early 1900s due to the (shameful) change in the legal status of cannabis.
How is it Made?
Cannabis tinctures can be made using a few different solvents, predominantly using ethanol extraction and a distillation process. The process involves soaking the plant material in ethanol, which separates the cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds from the plant matter. Once the ethanol has been evaporated, then the material goes through a short path distillation process to free of all impurities. The remaining oil is mixed with a carrier oil, such as MCT oil or vegetable glycerin (or certain flavors and/or terpenes) to produce a tincture. The Flowery uses ethanol extraction and multi stage distillate process with MCT oil and high-grade flower to ensure the best tincture quality possible.
How Does it Work?
Tinctures are easy to use and come in small bottles with dropper tops, allowing for accurate dosing. They can be taken in two different ways:
1. Under-the-Tongue (Sublingual Absorption)
Sublingual is a popular way to consume cannabis tinctures. The liquid is placed under the tongue and held for 30 seconds to a minute before being swallowed. This allows the active
compounds to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream, through the mucous membranes in the mouth, bypassing the digestive system and liver, providing faster onset times and more
precise dosing compared to oral ingestion. The effects usually last from 2-6 hours, making it useful for managing chronic conditions. It’s important to note that the taste and consistency of the tincture can affect absorption rates, and it may take some personal experimentation to find the ideal dosage and timing.
2. Oral (Swallowing / Adding to Food or Drink)
When cannabis tinctures are consumed orally, the active compounds in the tincture are absorbed through the digestive system, specifically through the stomach lining. While this method of administration can result in slower onset times compared to sublingual or inhalation methods, it also provides longer-lasting effects. After ingestion, the tincture is broken down by stomach acid and passes through the liver before entering the bloodstream. The liver plays an important role in metabolizing cannabinoids, and this can result in the creation of new compounds with different effects than the original cannabinoids.
Recommendations for First Time Use
It’s important to note that cannabis tinctures can have varying levels of potency, so it’s essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase until the desired effect is reached. It’s also important to store tinctures safely, out of reach of children and pets. Take your tincture on an empty stomach for optimal absorption and remember to wait at least 60 minutes before taking another dose.
While cannabis tinctures are considered a safe and natural remedy, it’s important to note that consuming too much can some times lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as dry mouth, dizziness, and increased heart rate. In rare cases, consuming large amounts of cannabis can lead to more severe symptoms such as paranoia, anxiety, and hallucinations. If you or someone you know feels like they consumed too much, the first step is to remain calm and remember that the effects will wear off in a few hours. It’s important to drink plenty of water and rest in a quiet, comfortable environment. If necessary, seek medical attention, especially if symptoms are severe or if the individual has underlying health conditions.
In summary – Cannabis tinctures offer a discreet and smoke-free way to customize your cannabis experience, alleviate discomfort, and elevate your mood. With their ease of use and versatility, they are a popular choice for those seeking natural remedies for various ailments. The Flowery’s mission of producing the highest cannabis input, production equipment, extraction process and fine attention to detail was all designed to deliver premium tinctures to the Florida medical market. Check our tincture selection below:
