What is CBD?
CBD is a natural chemical compound called a phytocannabinoid. We find it in the Cannabis plant’s sticky resin. CBD is primarily extracted for products like e-liquids, edibles, topicals, and tinctures. Unlike its relative tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which contains a psychoactive chemical that produces euphoric feelings, CBD isn’t intoxicating. This means it delivers potential therapeutic properties without any mind-altering effects.
How Does CBD Work?
Humans (and certain animals) have an endocannabinoids system (ESC), which consists of a network of receptors that interact with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. Studies suggest that CBD influences these receptors, and may help maintain and improve their functionality. In this way, taking CBD may help your internal systems run the way they should.
Read Our Guide On How To Use CBD Tincture Here
What is a CBD Tincture?
For centuries, tinctures were the primary form of medicine. CBD tinctures can be produced in various ways. One is by soaking cannabis flowers (or their isolates) in a solvent such as vegetable glycerine or alcohol for several weeks. Heat is then applied until the solution forms into a concentrated liquid state. This enables active cannabis to infuse into the neutral spirit. In this liquid form you can administer a dose directly under your tongue using a dropper.
Are CBD Tinctures Legal?
When purchasing CBD tinctures, you want to make sure you’re always buying lawful quality products. The U.S. legalized the hemp plant for cultivation, possession, and sales a few years ago with the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill. This bill explicitly states that plants cannot contain more than 0.3% THC. If they do, they are considered marijuana, which is federally illegal. So, you must ensure you’re purchasing hemp derived CBD products if you live in a state that hasn’t yet legalized cannabis.
For What is a CBD Tincture Used?
As of this writing, CBD oil has not been FDA approved for any condition or disease except epilepsy (the prescription Epidiolux contains CBD to help with the treatment of seizures). However, you may know people that are treating various health conditions with CBD, such as multiple sclerosis, neuropathy pain, joint pain, even anxiety disorders or sleep disorders. Many are achieving their desired outcomes, but again, it is important to note that CBD is not FDA approved for any of these diseases or health conditions.
Can CBD Tincture Achieve a Sense of Calm?
One of the most popular uses for CBD tinctures is for achieving a sense of calm. CBD has natural calming effects that may be able to promote relaxation both mentally and physically. When consumed, CBD oral drops may work to provide feelings of calm that could be useful in reducing racing thoughts and anxiousness. Together, these effects can holistically work to reduce overall feelings of worry, stress, and uncertainty. While CBD tinctures cannot cure anxiety or any other disorder, these products can make it a lot easier for you to manage your worries, helping you take your health back into your own hands.
Can CBD Tinctures Help With Sleep?
It’s also trendy for people to turn to CBD tinctures for assisting with sleep. Whether it’s falling asleep or staying asleep, this beneficial cannabinoid has proven helpful for both.
After taking a few drops of a potent CBD tincture, you’ll likely notice your muscles feel less tense and a lot more comfortable than they were earlier. This is a substantial contributing factor to CBD assistance with sleep; your muscles can unwind, too. For some, even if the brain is exhausted, painful muscles and aches might be enough to keep you up through the night. That’s why the soothing properties of CBD are so attractive. Functionality like this creates for a deep-seated, long-lasting relaxation that’s perfect for catching Zs.
On the flip side, if you’re someone who struggles to quiet their brain before bed, the therapeutic properties of CBD may also help this, too. As we mentioned above, CBD is terrific for reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm that may be worth consuming before bed. With CBD, thoughts tend to be more rational, comfortable, and easier to fall asleep to.
Do CBD Tinctures Help With Chronic Pain?
Additionally, a lot of people are using CBD tinctures for their touted pain relieving properties. Though more research is required, it’s thought that when consumed, CBD’s anti-inflammatory characteristics may be able to tackle areas throughout the body plagued with inflammation. Thus, you may be able to notice an apparent decrease in overall discomfort levels. But remember, CBD is a personal experience and will take a little experimentation to find what works for your pain relief.
Other types of CBD products might work well for producing more concentrated pain relief. CBD tincture is commonly used for overall body pains, while topicals create more targeted relief in areas that you need most.
How Do I Begin Using a Tincture?
Just a quick reminder: Like any new supplement it is important to talk to your doctor before starting a CBD routine.
That said, if you are a first time CBD tincture user, it’s recommended that you ingest it an hour before going to sleep since it’s known to provide a calming effect. Once the body acclimates to the tincture, you can use it more freely during the day. Also, it’s best to take CBD tinctures after a meal or a high-fat snack like peanuts or almonds, which often provide four to five times the absorption rate in the body.
Be patient, take the minimum amount of dosage suggested, and be consistent every day as you find the right dosage for you. It’s a process, NOT an easy button.
How Are CBD Tinctures Used?
Due to its high concentration, CBD is meant to be taken in small doses. That’s why the majority of tinctures come with a built-in dropper that enables the user to take carefully measured and small quantities. Given how easy CBD tinctures and liquids are to use, they are the most commonly used type of CBD product for people of all ages.
CBD tinctures are versatile liquids that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are three ways of using CBD tinctures:
- Placed Under the Tongue: CBD tinctures were actually meant to be ingested sublingually under the tongue. That’s because there are numerous blood vessels right under the tongue and will allow the cannabidiol to enter the bloodstream directly. Place the dropper under the tongue, place the tincture, and hold for about 1-2 minutes before swallowing. The remaining CBD that has been swallowed will get absorbed in the body via the digestive system.
- Swallowed: If you swallow directly, the majority of the CBD will most likely pass through the digestive tract before getting absorbed in the bloodstream.
- Blended: You can blend the tincture into everyday food and drinks. You can add it to your morning smoothie, dressings, or soups. At the same time, avoid cooking CBD products since high heat can diminish CBD potency.
How Can I Maximize on the Effects of CBD Tinctures?
To get the most out of the effects of your CBD tincture, you’ll have to take into account your body’s absorption rate to what you consume. All supplements, vitamins, and foods hinge upon bioavailability. The quality of the product you ingest is the greatest when it comes to bioavailability.
That’s why purchasing a premium and verified tincture is critical. You can be rest assured that TruHarvest products are made from quality hemp grown right on our farm. They include other quality ingredients (like MCT oil) and have a certified manufacturing process.
How Much Tincture Should I Use?
- There is no ideal CBD tincture serving. Instead, your dose depends on personal needs and preferences. Why is that the case? CBD affects everyone differently. Plus CBD tinctures come in a variety of concentrations and sizes. So it’s not a one-shoe-fits-all situation when it comes to using tinctures. Some factors affecting dosing include:
- Your body weight
- Individual CBD sensitivity
- Product concentration
- The magnitude and frequency of your symptoms
Also, finding your best dose involves some trial and error. CBD content is measured in milligrams. We recommend staying below daily doses of 100mg. For best results, we recommend trying to take CBD daily instead of when your symptoms flare up.
Are There Any Suggested Starting Points?
There are some basic guidelines for starting to take CBD based on your weight and symptoms. As mentioned, these are simply guidelines of where to begin and might take some experimentation on your part to find the perfect dose for your body.
For mild symptoms:
- 85-149 lbs (10mg)
- 140-229 lbs (15mg)
- 230+ lbs (25mg)
For moderate symptoms:
- 85-149 lbs (15mg)
- 150-229 lbs (20mg)
- 230+lbs (30mg)
For strong symptoms:
- 85-149 lbs (20mg)
- 150-229 lbs (30mg)
- 230+ lbs (40mg)
What Time Should I Take My CBD Tincture?
If you are a beginner at using CBD tinctures, it’s recommended that you consume it at night. CBD generally provides a calm feeling that will make you feel relaxed and potentially sleepy. Just start with small qualities. You can take a small amount in the morning and another one at night before sleeping. But, as always, consult with your medical practitioner first before embarking on a CBD regiment, especially if you are on any other medications already.
Will CBD Tincture Burn My Mouth?
Traditional herbal tinctures were made with alcohol, so they caused a burning sensation in the mouth if you took them directly. TruHarvest tinctures aren’t made with alcohol; they’re made with MCT oil, so there’s nothing in these tinctures that would cause a burning sensation. In fact, it’s the opposite. The oily nature of these tinctures gives a nice, soothing sensation.
What Types of CBD Tinctures Are There?
Currently, there are three main types of tinctures you will come across when shopping: broad-spectrum, full-spectrum, and CBD isolate tinctures.
What Is Broad-Spectrum CBD Tincture?
Broad-Spectrum CBD tinctures include minor cannabinoids and terpenes, but they do not have any levels of THC whatsoever. Even without the THC, these types of tinctures still produce full-potency effects.
What Are Full-Spectrum CBD Tinctures?
When you come across full-spectrum CBD tinctures, these are tinctures that essentially encompass the full cannabis plant. This means that alongside CBD, they also include miniscule amounts of THC and other minor cannabinoids, as well as terpenes and flavonoids. These types of tinctures produce a fuller experience, as cannabis’ components work best synergistically.
It’s essential to keep in mind that full-spectrum tinctures derived from hemp are only going to contain 0.3% THC at the most. An amount as small as this is not going to be intoxicating.
What Is a CBD Isolate?
CBD isolates are pure CBD extracts, nothing more, nothing less. These forms of concentrates do not contain any other cannabinoids, producing products that can be up to 99% pure CBD. CBD isolates are an excellent option for those who are purely interested in the effects that cannabidiol can bring.
Do CBD Tinctures Need Refrigeration?
After opening CBD tinctures, there isn’t any need for refrigeration and they have a long shelf life, so you can place them wherever it’s convenient for you. But keep in mind, you still want to keep them away from direct sunlight or any heat (like a hot car) to avoid degradation. What’s more, you also want to be sure to shake the tincture before each use.
Are CBD Tinctures Readily Absorbed By The Body?
Most CBD tinctures are formulated with MCT oil, which is an oil that boosts the rate of CBD absorption into the bloodstream. Given how a CBD tincture is highly concentrated, it absorbs into the bloodstream at a faster rate compared to other forms like edibles or capsules. Plus, it’s easier for the body to break down a tincture compared to an edible or capsule.
Are CBD Tinctures Portable?
CBD tinctures are easily portable given that they come in ultra-compact bottles with built-in droppers on top. You can take your CBD tincture with you when traveling or in your daily routine. The bottles are lightweight and will not be a hindrance. Just remember to keep them in a cool dark location.
Are CBD Tinctures Available in Different Flavors?
CBD tinctures come in a variety of all natural flavors. Popular flavors include cinnamon, citrus, and mint, but many people prefer natural.
Are There Beverages That Can Be Boosted by CBD Tinctures?
Yes, there are many beverages that can benefit from just a couple of drops of CBD tincture. However, it is important to note that CBD tincture absorption and results are best when taken sublingually.
- Coffee – Add a few drops of oil from the tincture and enjoy.
- Hot Chocolate – Because hot chocolate is made with mlk, tincture can be easily infused.
- Tea – The CBD oil will swirl around and give your tea a great boost.
- Smoothies – When you blend your favorite fruits and greens, add your preferred CBD dose from your tincture as well.
- Seasonal Beverages – Winter has eggnog. Spring is known for mint juleps. Summer is full of fancy drinks. Fall and cider pair well together. Whatever the season, your CBD tincture will mix together.
- Protein Shake – Add a few drops to your protein shake and taste, you can always add more if you are looking for extra flavor.
- Salads – Consider adding a few drops of CBD tinctures oil to your dressing.
Where Can I Find a Quality CBD Tincture?
When looking at any CBD tincture, it is important to do a lot of research to find out how and where it is made. A quality CBD tincture should come with 3rd party independent testing information to ensure its safety and purity.
Asking where a CBD company’s industrial hemp is grown and processed couldn’t hurt either to see how transparent a CBD company is willing to be with potential clients.
At TruHarvest, all our cannabinoid products are grown and produced in-house, from plant to pure product. And, of course, we have 3rd party testing to ensure our quality on every product we sell.