Contents
How long does cannabis tincture take to work? We explore the various factors that affect the onset time of a tincture, including method of administration.
Checkout this video:
The Different Types of Tinctures
There are many different ways to make a cannabis tincture. The most common method is to use alcohol, but other solvents can be used as well. The type of alcohol you use will determine the final strength of your tincture. The process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks.
Alcohol-based Tinctures
Alcohol-based cannabis tinctures are a popular choice among medical marijuana patients and recreational consumers for their ease of use and fast-acting effects. These tinctures are made by extracting THC, CBD, or other cannabinoids from the marijuana plant using high-proof alcohol as a solvent.
The resulting Liquid is then evaporated to remove the alcohol, leaving behind a concentrated, psychoactive tincture that can be used in small doses to achieve desired effects. Alcohol-based tinctures are typically quick and easy to make at home, but they can also be purchased from dispensaries and online retailers.
Advantages:
-Fast-acting effects
-Easy to make at home
-Can be used in small doses for desired effects
Disadvantages:
-Can be harsh on the throat
-May not be suitable for people with sensitivities to alcohol
Glycerin-based Tinctures
Glycerin-based tinctures are starting to become more popular as a sugar-free alternative to ethanol-based tinctures. While they don’t extract as many cannabinoids as ethanol, they still extract a good amount. They also have a sweet taste that some people prefer. The major downside to glycerin-based tinctures is that they don’t last as long as ethanol-based tinctures. They also can’t be stored for as long without deteriorating.
How to Make a Cannabis Tincture
A cannabis tincture is a concentrated form of cannabis that is made by extracting the THC and other cannabinoids from the plant using a solvent, such as alcohol. Tinctures are a popular way to consume cannabis because they are easy to make, and they offer a potent, quick-acting dose of cannabis that can be taken sublingually (under the tongue).
Decarboxylate Your Cannabis
This is an important step and should not be skipped! If you don’t decarb your cannabis, your tincture will not be as effective. Decarbing the cannabis activates the THC so that it can be infused into the alcohol.
To decarb your cannabis, preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Spread your ground cannabis evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 40 minutes. Let cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
Choose Your Solvent
There are a few solvents you can choose from when making a cannabis tincture. The most common one is high proof alcohol like everclear. This will extract the maximum amount of THC from your starting material. If you can’t find everclear, vodka will also work.
Glycerin is another popular choice and it is completely natural. The downside to using glycerin is that it won’t extract as much THC as alcohol will.
Lastly, you can use apple cider vinegar. This is the least effective solvent but it is still possible to make a tincture with it. Keep in mind that ACV has a strong flavor so your tincture will also taste like vinegar.
Combine the Cannabis and Solvent
In a mason jar or other glass container, combine your ground-up cannabis material with the solvent you’ve chosen. For every ounce (28 grams) of cannabis, you will want to use about 3.5 ounces (100 ml) of solvent. This ratio can be increased or decreased depending on the potency of the cannabis being used and your desired potency for the final product.
Once you have combined the cannabis and solvent, seal the jar tightly and shake it vigorously for about three minutes. This will help to distribute the THC evenly throughout the solution.
Filter the Mixture
What you’ll need:
-A mason jar with a lid
-Cannabis
-Everclear, vodka, or any high proof alcohol (grain alcohol)
-Coffee filter or cheesecloth
Grind your cannabis and place it in the mason jar. You can use as much or as little as you want, but keep in mind that tinctures are very potent. We recommend starting with 1 gram (1000mg). Pour alcohol over the cannabis until it is completely submerged and screw on the lid.
Allow the mixture to sit for at least two weeks, shaking it occasionally. The longer you allow it to steep, the more potent your tincture will be.
After at least two weeks, place the coffee filter or cheesecloth over the mouth of the jar and secure it with a rubber band. Slowly pour the mixture into another container, filtering out the cannabis plant material. Your tincture is now ready to use!
Store the Tincture Properly
Cannabis tinctures are potent and long-lasting. Tyler, our in-house cannabis pharmacist, recommends storing them in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality and prevent degradation from light exposure. You can keep your tincture in the fridge if you want to extend its shelf life even further
How to Use a Cannabis Tincture
A cannabis tincture is a concentrated extract made by soaking cannabis in alcohol or another solvent. Tinctures are usually taken by mouth, and the effects can be felt within 15-30 minutes. Tinctures are a great option for people who want to avoid smoking or vaporizing cannabis. In this article, we’ll go over how to use a cannabis tincture.
Start with a Low Dose
It’s always best to start with a low dose when using any cannabis product, including tinctures. For most people, a low dose is about 1 milliliter, or 1 dropperful. If you’re new to cannabis or have a low tolerance, start with just half of that. You can always take more if you need to, but it’s difficult to reduce the amount of tincture you’ve already taken.
Place the tincture under your tongue and hold it there for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing. This gives the mucous membranes in your mouth time to absorb the THC (or CBD). You’ll feel the effects within 15 to 30 minutes. If you don’t feel anything after an hour, take another small dose.
Place the Tincture Under Your Tongue
Start by placing the required number of drops under your tongue. It’s important not to swallow for at least 30 seconds, as this gives the tincture time to be absorbed. Once the tincture has been in contact with your mucous membranes for the minimum amount of time, you can go ahead and swallow.
Hold the Tincture There for a Minute
Place the tincture under your tongue and hold it there for one minute before swallowing. This gives the mucous membranes in your mouth a chance to absorb some of the THC before it enters your digestive system, where it will be metabolized by your liver and may take a bit longer to take effect.
Swallow the Tincture
Swallow the tincture directly by mouth. Start with one dropperful (about 1 ml) and increase as needed. The effects can be felt within 15 minutes and peak in about 30 to 60 minutes. Tinctures can be mixed into drinks but this will decrease their potency and lengthen the effects time.
The Benefits of Cannabis Tinctures
Cannabis tinctures are a great way to consume marijuana without having to smoke it. They are also very easy to make at home. Tinctures provide a high that is similar to smoking, but they can last much longer. Cannabis tinctures can also be used to cook with, which is a great way to add THC to your food.
They’re Fast-Acting
Cannabis tinctures are one of the most popular and versatile products on the market. They’re fast-acting, easy to use, and offer a slew of potential benefits.
What is a cannabis tincture?
A cannabis tincture is an extract that’s made by soaking cannabis flowers or trim in alcohol, then straining the mixture. The result is a potent liquid that can be taken orally or added to food and drink.
Tinctures are a great option for people who want the potential benefits of cannabis but don’t want to smoke or vaporize it. They’re also discreet and easy to use. Simply place a few drops under your tongue or add them to your favorite beverage.
How long does it take for a cannabis tincture to work?
Tinctures are fast-acting because they’re absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the blood vessels in your mouth. You should start to feel the effects within minutes. The effects will peak within 30 minutes to an hour and can last for four to six hours.
What are the potential benefits of taking a cannabis tincture?
Cannabis tinctures offer many of the same benefits as other forms of cannabis, including relief from pain, anxiety, and nausea. They can also be used to treat seizures, inflammation, and other medical conditions.
They’re Easy to Dose
Cannabis tinctures offer a convenient and easy way to dose cannabis. They are also very versatile and can be added to food or drinks, or simply taken under the tongue. Tinctures are usually made by steeping cannabis flowers or isolates in high-proof grain alcohol, then cooking over low heat for several hours. This process extracts the active compounds from the plant material and dissolves them into the alcohol.
They Have a Long Shelf Life
Cannabis tinctures offer many of the same benefits as other delivery methods of cannabis, such as edibles, topicals, and vaping. However, tinctures have a few distinct advantages. First, they have a very long shelf life. Properly stored cannabis tinctures can last for years. Second, tinctures offer a very accurate way to dose cannabis. When using a tincture, you know exactly how much THC or CBD you are taking in each dose. Third, tinctures are very easy to use. You can take them sublingually (under the tongue) or add them to food or beverage. Finally, they are discreet and portable, so you can take them with you wherever you go.
They’re Discreet
Tinctures are one of the most discreet ways to consume cannabis. They come in small bottles that can be easily carried in a purse or pocket, and they can be taken anywhere, anytime. Simply put a few drops under your tongue and you’re good to go!
Tinctures are also a great way to microdose. Microdosing is the act of taking small doses of cannabis throughout the day in order to maintain a certain level of cannabinoids in your system without getting too high. This is perfect for people who want to reap the benefits of cannabis without feeling stoned all day long.
They’re Versatile
Tinctures are extremely versatile. They can be added to almost any food or beverage, including water, coffee, tea, smoothies, and even baked goods. They can also be used sublingually (under the tongue) or applied topically to the skin. Tinctures provide an easy way to consume CBD without having to smoke or inhale vapor.
Tinctures are also a very discreet way to consume CBD. Because they are odorless and colorless, they can be consumed anywhere without drawing attention to yourself. Tinctures are also very portable, making them a great option for people who are on the go.
