While smoking is today the most popular form of marijuana use, for most of American history, cannabis consumption was defined by the application of tinctures, or cannabis-infused alcohols applied directly to the tongue. These cannabis tinctures were commonly sold in pharmacies until the gradual prohibition of cannabis took hold over the course of the 20th century.
In the present, cannabis tinctures are readily available at most dispensaries across America. Plus, the tincture market has more to offer cannabis consumers than ever before, with new, more potent products continuously being developed in a multitude of flavors.
What are Cannabis Tinctures?
Cannabis tinctures can be thought of as alcohol-based cannabis essence, though they can also be made with other liquid mediums. This essence is stored in a bottle and used with a dropper, making them a convenient portable method of dosing in situations that call for discretion in cannabis use.
While other forms of cannabis consumption feature one basic method of application, tinctures are more open-ended and can be applied in a variety of ways. While simple oral ingestion is the most common way of using a tincture, many cannabis consumers prefer to add a few drops to their food or drink.
How Cannabis Tinctures Are Made
The process of creating tinctures is relatively simple. Finely ground cannabis is added to an alcohol base and stored in a dark, low-temperature area for a few weeks. It is stirred daily to assist with absorption. The alcohol naturally takes in the cannabinoids present within the cannabis over time.
Eventually, the mixture will turn a deep shade of green. This signals that the infusion is complete, and requires only straining of the leftover flower before it can be added to glass bottles for use as homemade tinctures.
How to Use Cannabis Tinctures
Cannabis tinctures offer consumers a range of options for consumption, but the quickest and most effective method of tincture use involves applying drops of the tincture directly to the bottom of the tongue. The interior membrane of the mouth offers the most direct access to the bloodstream, meaning the high acquired from cannabis tinctures is faster-acting than many other forms of cannabis use.
Likewise, drops of tincture oil can be used to enhance meals or infuse smoothies, juices, and other beverages. While tinctures may produce an aftertaste when applied to food, they can act as a convenient way to discreetly dose in public.
Best Practices for Cannabis Tinctures
As always when handling cannabis, make sure you are aware of proper dosing practices for your particular tincture before using your purchase. Some cannabis tinctures can be extremely potent with THC content, while others, such as CBD tinctures, will do little to impart a traditional cannabis high.
Most of the time, a few drops are all that will be required for tinctures to begin to work. If you still are not feeling their effects more than half an hour after use, applying a few more drops may be required. Remember, you can always consume more, but you cannot consume less.
Cannabis tinctures differ from cannabis concentrates and extracts. If you have questions about the different types, stop by Have a Heart and one of our helpful budtenders can help you find the right product for your needs.
Interested in premium cannabis solutions? Have a Heart features an expansive menu of locally-sourced, high-quality cannabis products, including tinctures and more, and a knowledgeable staff to assist you with your purchase.
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