When discussing Cannabis, the two compounds that come up most often are CBD and THC. The rapid and continuous growth of CBD oil is largely thanks to its therapeutic and medicinal properties. This is an addition to its complete lack of (unwanted) psychoactive side-effects.

CBD oil has become a preferred alternative medical remedy because it has proven to be an almost perfect cannabinoid for fast-acting relief from inflammation, anxiety, pain, and similar problems. 

Users across the world are familiarizing themselves with the various benefits of cannabis and especially CBD. CBD can be consumed in a number of forms from oils to edibles like gummies, smokables, creams, and lotions. The way CBD is ingested has a notable effect on the effect it has on the user. Each method of consumption also has its own set of pros and cons. 

Here we discuss two specific forms of CBD – CBD oil and CBD tinctures. We explain which to choose for best results and why.

CBD Oil – Explained

CBD oil is produced via an extraction procedure where oil is extracted from the flowers, stalks, and seeds of the hemp plant. CBD oil is the most concentrated and most expensive form of CBD. In addition to the usual cannabinoids, users will also get the benefit of healthy fatty acids, nutrients, vitamins, and proteins with their dose of CBD oil.

CBD oil is commonly mixed in beverages and food recipes to foster a more natural consumption of the product.

Studies have shown that CBD has the ability to positively influence the human body’s natural endocannabinoid system. Thanks to the increased concentration of CBD within CBD oil, just a couple of teaspoons is sufficient to provide a user with an average daily dosage of CBD. 

That said, the exact dosage of CBD can vary for individual users and is largely dependent on specifics like body weight, etc. 

Ingredients Within CBD Oil

When CBD is ready for consumption, it usually contains the base oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil. Base oils and carrier oils dilute the CBD content and make it easier for the human body to absorb. 

Popularly used oils include – 

• MCT oil
• Hemp seed oil
• Coconut oil
• Vegetable glycerin base

CBD Tinctures Explained

‘Tincture’ refers to medication that is maintained with an alcohol base. While derived from the similar hemp plant, CBD tinctures are distinct from CBD oil.

CBD tinctures are preserved within up to 70% distilled alcohol. These tinctures are strictly extracted from liquid hemp, mixed with alcohol, peppermint or cinnamon, and glycerin. Users are able to imbibe CBD tinctures orally, the same as with CBD oil. 

The word ‘tincture’ depicts any medication kept in an alcohol arrangement. While derived from hemp, CBD tinctures are not the same as CBD oil.

CBD is suspended under 60-70% distilled alcohol. Necessarily, these tinctures are extracts of hemp (in liquid form) combined with a mixture of alcohol, glycerin, or cinnamon/peppermint oil. One can consume tinctures in the same trend as CBD oil, that is, sublingually, under the tongue.

When compared to CBD oil, CBD tinctures contain CBD with a lower potency. However, CBD tinctures have a longer shelf life. Also, like CBD oil, the exact dosage varies by user.

Thanks to the presence of alcohol in CBD tinctures, they have a higher level of bioavailability as compared to CBD oil. The alcohol in the tinctures acts as an effective preservative and helps increase the shelf life of this version of CBD. 

CBD tinctures can also be used in cooking when mixed with CBD that is soluble in water. This allows for faster absorption of CBD.

Ingredients Within CBD Tinctures

The ratio of CBD in tinctures is lower when compared to CBD oil This is largely due to the presence of other substances that are added to the final product to enhance its flavor. Some such ingredients include – 

• Water
• Melatonin
• Specific herbs
• Sweeteners
• Essential oils like lavender, basil, etc
• Essential vitamins like B12, C, and D, etc.

What is the Difference Between CBD Oil and CBD Tinctures?

Base

As the name indicates, CBD oil contains cannabidiol as an oil base or carrier. In contrast, CBD tincture comes with an alcohol base. That said, both CBD oils and tinctures have the same therapeutic benefits and are widely trusted by users to relieve stress, inflammation, anxiety, etc.

Consumption Method

Users may consume CBD oil by vaping. On the other hand, CBD tinctures can be consumed easily by mixing them in foods or beverages. The alcohol base of CBD tinctures allows for this amalgamation.

Taste

When consumed orally, or sublingually, CBD can have an unpleasant taste for unsuspecting users. However, CBD tincture comes in various appetizing flavors like peach, vanilla, and chocolate. At the same time, CBD tinctures allow for quick absorption when taken sublingually.

Shelf Life

Compared to CBD oil, CBD tinctures have a relatively long shelf life given that it is made of either isopropyl or ethyl alcohol. Both of these work admirably as preservatives. Expired CBD oil can be easily identified when it develops foggy or cloudy particles. The shelf life of CBD products can be extended by storing them away from direct sunlight.

To Conclude

Both CBD oil and CBD tinctures allow for discreet consumption and both have negligible psychoactive effects. Once users are aware of the properties and pros and cons of both products, choosing either of the products is made much simpler. 

In most cases, the choice between CBD oil and CBD tincture boils down to individual preferences. 

Irrespective of considerations such as the method of ingestion, taste, price, etc, the advantages of using CBD products for the maintenance of general health and wellbeing are manyfold.

Disclaimer

CBD products that are derived from Hemp and contain less than the prescribed .3 percent of THC are legal per federal law. However, certain state laws may still deem it illegal.

CBD products that are derived from Marijuana are illegal per federal law but remain legal under the laws of certain states. 

It is advisable to check the appropriate state laws in case of travel. It is important to note that over-the-counter CBD products are not approved by the FDA.