CBD tinctures are among the most effective of all the different CBD products on the market today. However, there are many misconceptions regarding CBD tinctures, even amongst individuals who are knowledgeable about cannabidiol.
Here at OnlyPure, we believe in educating our customers so they feel empowered to make decisions about their health. Therefore, we prepared this guide to tinctures just for you.
What are CBD Tinctures?
CBD tinctures are a form of cannabidiol (CBD) product that are typically taken orally. They are made by infusing CBD into a liquid base, usually alcohol or a mixture of alcohol and water, although some tinctures use oil bases like coconut or MCT oil instead. They are usually administered using a dropper, and users typically place a few drops under the tongue (sublingual administration) and hold them there for about 30 seconds to a minute before swallowing. This method allows for faster absorption into the bloodstream compared to ingestion.
How CBD Tinctures are Made
Tinctures are made by dissolving cannabis in high-proof alcohol. A low temperature is then applied to the mixture for an extended period to extract the cannabinoid. Most of the alcohol is boiled off or evaporates, leaving just the cannabinoids suspended in a small amount of alcohol. Sometimes, essential oils like peppermint or orange are added to improve its texture and taste.
The difference between CBD oil and CBD tinctures is that CBD oil is a CBD extract with a base or carrier oil, whereas a CBD tincture is a CBD extract suspended in a small amount of distilled alcohol. Consequently, CBD oil can be vaped, while tinctures can’t. However, tinctures can easily be added to food or drinks, while it is harder to do so with CBD oil because of its taste and consistency.
Using CBD Tinctures
Many people use CBD tinctures for their potential health benefits, which may include relief from anxiety, pain, inflammation, and insomnia. However, many people find that tinctures are only effective if you follow proper use guidelines and storage recommendations.
Best Method of Ingestion
CBD extracts have a distinct earthy taste, as does CBD oil, which can also be quite bitter. Conversely, CBD tinctures on their own are relatively flavorless, allowing them to be consumed in a variety of creative ways; for example, added to food or drink.
By far the most efficient method of ingesting a CBD tincture is sublingually (under the tongue). The membrane under the tongue absorbs the CBD into the sublingual artery, then the external carotid artery, and finally the brain, which allows it to be distributed efficiently and consistently throughout the body. The tincture should be held under the tongue for at least a minute before swallowing to allow for maximum absorption. Effects should start to be felt in approximately 15 minutes and will last somewhere between 4 and 8 hours.
What About Using CBD Tinctures as Topicals?
Many people are unaware that CBD tinctures can also be used as topicals. This is because they contain a high concentration of CBD compared with products marketed specifically as topicals, which generally contain more filler ingredients. CBD tinctures can, therefore, be an effective topical treatment for burns and sunburns, bruises and sprains, skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, and daily skin and facial care.
Proper Storage for Your CBD Tinctures
Unlike CBD edibles, a high-quality tincture, if stored properly, has an indefinite shelf life. Plus, it won’t break down or lose its quality with age. So, how do you properly store and fully utilize the shelf life of a CBD tincture?
There are three things that you should keep away from CBD tinctures include heat, oxygen, and light. Refrigeration is generally the best storage method for cannabis-infused products, but in the case of tinctures, they can also be stored in a freezer.
The bottle should be well-sealed to keep air out, and opaque to keep light out. Glass bottles work better than plastic because the latter breaks down over time. If possible, you should keep the tincture in its original bottle. Additionally, check the “best by” date on the bottle, which will take into account the various perishability factors of each ingredient.
Buying CBD Tinctures From a Reputable Source
When looking to purchase CBD tinctures, selecting a reputable source ensures safety, quality, and efficacy. The CBD market can be a mixed bag with varying product standards, so it’s important to be thorough in your vetting process. Here are some key steps to help you find a reliable supplier.
1. Check for Third-Party Testing
Reliable CBD suppliers will provide detailed third-party lab results for each batch of their products. These reports should verify the CBD content and confirm that the product is free from contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and excessive levels of THC. Always check that these reports are up-to-date and accessible on the company’s website or upon request.
At OnlyPure, we test our CBD oil products repeatedly during the production stage. We also obtain Certificates of Analysis that clearly display exactly what is in our products. We publish the test results for every single product we have ever produced online for all to see. Simply visit our COA page to review the lab details for any of our products.
2. Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews can provide insight into the quality of the CBD tincture and the company’s customer service. Look for reviews on the company’s website, as well as independent platforms. Be wary of companies with overwhelmingly negative feedback or reports of ineffective products.
OnlyPure proudly publishes customer reviews on our homepage as well as on individual product pages so you can read exactly what our customers think before you buy any OnlyPure CBD products.
3. Assess Product Labeling
Quality CBD products will have clear and informative labeling. This includes the amount of CBD per serving, the type of CBD used (full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate), and other ingredients. Accurate and detailed labeling is a sign of a reputable supplier who values consumer transparency.
4. Verify Source of Hemp
The quality of CBD largely depends on the quality of the hemp from which it was extracted. Reputable suppliers should be transparent about their hemp sourcing, preferring domestically grown hemp that adheres to agricultural regulations.
OnlyPure™ CBD oil is Colorado grown with local hemp. We control quality from seed to sale, testing against heavy metals and pesticides, and for potency to ensure that every bottle or softgel contains the promised level of CBD. All our CBD oil is full-spectrum hemp distillate, which contains dozens of wonderful phytocannabinoids, including CBG, CBDA, CBC, CBD, and less than .3% THC. We guarantee potency, purity, and transparency.
5. Look for Industry Certifications
Certifications from industry associations or third-party quality assurance organizations can be a good indicator of a brand’s commitment to quality and safety. These might include certifications for organic farming, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), or others relevant to the production and testing of CBD products.
6. Evaluate Company Transparency
A trustworthy CBD supplier should be transparent about their manufacturing processes, their company’s history, and their mission. A lack of information or transparency about the company and its operations is a red flag.
7. Customer Support
Good customer service is indicative of a reputable company. A reliable CBD tincture supplier should offer responsive and helpful customer support, including clear policies regarding returns and exchanges.
Purchasing your CBD tincture from a reputable source not only ensures you receive a product that is safe and of high quality but also supports companies that are contributing positively to the industry’s standards. Always take your time to research and choose wisely, ensuring the best possible experience and outcomes from your CBD products.
When in doubt, stick with OnlyPure CBD — We believe our customers deserve to know they are taking the best quality and promised potency of every CBD product.
