Learn how to make a cannabis tincture with this step-by-step guide. This cannabis tincture recipe is easy to follow and makes a potent tincture that can be used in many different ways.
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Introduction
A cannabis tincture is a potent extract made by soaking the plant in high-proof alcohol. Tinctures are a popular and convenient way to consume cannabis, especially for people who cannot or don’t want to smoke it. They can be used in small doses, which makes it easy to titrate the perfect amount of medication. Cannabis tinctures can also be added to food and drinks.
Cannabis tinctures are easy to make at home and only require a few ingredients:
-Cannabis flower or trim
-High-proof alcohol like vodka, Everclear, or grain alcohol
-A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
-A strainer or cheesecloth
Tinctures can be made with fresh or dry cannabis material. If you’re using fresh plants, you will need about 3 times as much as if you were using dry weed. Start by grinding your cannabis into a coarse powder using a coffee grinder or your hands. You don’t want it too fine, or else it will be difficult to strain out later.
Place your ground cannabis in the glass jar and pour in enough alcohol to completely cover the plant material. Seal the jar tightly and give it a good shake to make sure all of the material is saturated. Store your jar in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, shaking it daily to help extract the THC.
After 2 weeks, use your strainer or cheesecloth to strain out the plant material from the alcohol. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible so that you’re left with only THC-infused alcohol. Pour your tincture into a dark glass bottle with a dropper top for easy administration. Store your tincture in a cool, dark place and use as needed.
What You Need
In order to make a cannabis tincture, you will need the following supplies:
-Cannabis trim or bud
-High-proof alcohol (such as vodka or everclear)
-Mason jar
-Coffee filter
-Funnel
You will also need a method of decarboxylating your cannabis. This can be done by baking it in an oven at 240 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 minutes, or by using a standalone decarboxylation machine.
The Process
Tinctures are concentrated herbal extracts that are made by soaking cannabis in high-proof alcohol or grain alcohol, also known asEverclear. The resulting mixture is then left to steep for a period of time, generally two to six weeks. After the specified steeping time has elapsed, the tincture is strained and the alcohol is evaporated off, leaving behind a potent liquid extract. The final product can be taken orally or added to food and drinks.
There are a few different ways to make a tincture, but the most important factor is choosing the right ratio of cannabis to alcohol. A general rule of thumb is to use one ounce (28 grams) of cannabis for every one-fifth of a gallon (750 ml) of alcohol. This will yield a tincture with a 20 percent THC concentration, which is considered strong. For a less potent tincture, you can use less cannabis or more alcohol.
Once you have your materials assembled, making a tincture is relatively simple. Start by grinding your cannabis as finely as possible—the smaller the particles, the better the extraction will be. Then, add your ground cannabis to a glass jar and pour in enough alcohol to completely cover the herb. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks—the longer you let it steep, the stronger the tincture will be.
After at least two weeks have passed, strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or coffee filter and dispose of the remaining plant matter. Next, evaporate off the Alcohol by simmering the mixture on low heat until it has reduced by half—this step is important because consuming Alcohol can be dangerous if not done properly. Once all of the Alcohol has been cooked off, your tincture will be ready to use!
Storing Your Tincture
Once you have your finished tincture, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its potency and freshness. Light, heat, and air are all enemies of cannabis tinctures, so you’ll want to keep your stash in a cool, dark place. A refrigerator is ideal, but a dark cupboard will do in a pinch. Just be sure to keep it out of reach of curious pets and small children.
Tinctures will generally stay potent for at least a year, but if you notice any change in color or flavor, it’s probably time to say goodbye.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make a cannabis tincture, it’s time to put your new skills to the test! This potent extract is perfect for adding to your favorite recipes or taking alone for quick and easy relief. Remember, start with a low dose and increase as needed — tinctures are extremely concentrated and a little goes a long way. With some practice, you’ll be a tincture-making pro in no time!
