Starting your CBD journey
Starting your CBD journey may seem as if delving into some new language most of the time. “Full spectrum,” “isolate,” and “bioavailability” are some of the phrases that you may have heard before; but perhaps the two most misused and confused products are CBD oil versus CBD tincture. Many tend to refer to them as the same thing and even certain companies do not help the cause. These products, however, are different in principle and this knowledge is essential in the process of making a decision on which one to use. The much sought after CBD tincture vs oil will be discussed in depth and dispelling any doubts surrounding it.
What is CBD Oil?
To begin, we will look at the most recognisable product that is in wide use: CBD oil. It is basically a CBD solution comprising two major components that work very well. One of these constitutes the CBD extract, obtained from the hemp plant. This may be achieved by the application of efficacious techniques such as the CO2 extraction technique since it results in high levels of cannabinoids. Nonetheless, it is not possible to put the raw CBD extract in the concentration bottles. It has a very thick texture and is also very hard to measure correctly. This brings us to the second component – a carrier oil. This kind of oil reduces the CBD to a manageable level and aids in its absorption. You can even compare the carrier oil to an ever-prepared chum who cheers up and assists in the consumption of CBD in the body.
The following are examples of carrier oils:
- Coconut MCT oil (medium chain triglyceride oil).
- Hemp seed oil
- Olive oil
- Avocado oil
Due to the oil base of the product, each finished product may have a unique taste which is the taste of the oil of the hemp plant that is commonly referred to as “grassy.” Mint, citrus, and other flavoring are added by most companies to make it more chewable, but the taste stems from the oil and hemp within.
CBD Tincture Vs Oil?
Now, before we tackle what a tincture in its real definition is. In its history, normally, a tincture is a solution that contains plant material which has been steeped in a number of high strength alcohol. In this context, the alcohol is used as a solvent to extract bioactive molecules from the plants that is CBD as well as other cannabinoids from the hemp plant. It results in an effervescent liquid fume fused with ethyl alcohol.
Thus, genuine CBD tinctures are made with alcohol-based solvents rather than oils. The alcohol in the tincture also acts as a preventative agent for other ingredients, which helps increase their longevity. In order to make them more palatable, some additional substances, such as sugar, can be introduced, for instance, sweeteners, vegetable glycerin, or bland flavors to offset some bitter after-effects of alcohol.
Now, here is where it gets complicated: it is almost guaranteed that if you look at a product with ‘CBD tincture’ on the label, it will almost certainly be a CBD oil instead. The ‘tincture’ moniker has been widely used informally to refer to any CBD liquid in a dropper bottle. Hence, it is why checking the ingredients might prove to be the best solution when it comes to the CBD tincture vs oil conundrum. Even when the bottle clearly gives the impression that it is not CBD oil, if MCT or hemp seed oil are the only ingredients let alone written on the bottle, it is CBD oil inside the bottle.
CBD Tincture and Oil: Comparison of Similar Products
The point of view of the CBD tincture vs oil supporters can be illustrated through the comparison table, seen below. The table describes the features of an alcohol-based tincture.
| Feature | CBD Oil | CBD Tincture (True) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Liquid | Carrier Oil (MCT, hemp seed, etc.) | High proof Alcohol |
| Taste | Earthy, grassy, sometimes nutty | Bitter, sharp, alcoholic |
| Shelf Life | 1 to 2 years | 3 to 5 years |
| Ingredients | CBD Extract + Carrier Oil (+ optional flavors) | CBD Extract + Alcohol (+ optional flavors/sweeteners) |
| Absorption (Sublingual) | Effective; oil helps cannabinoids absorb | Potentially faster due to alcohol’s properties |
An In-depth Analysis of the Variations
The provided table gives great comparisons, but let’s look into these differences with a little bit more detail. These specific factors and your own preferences are what usually prevail when it comes to choosing CBD tincture vs oil.
Oil and Alcohol as Major Ingredients
The primary difference is in the solvent used. CBD oil is based on oils while a tincture contains alcohol. This small change makes all the difference in the world. Cannabinoids, such as CBD, love fats and are easily dissolved in oils. It also acts as a very efficient and natural support for carrying CBD’s molecules and allowing your body to absorb it easily. In contrast, alcohol is a very good solvent too that can carry and extract CBD quite readily.
Taste: Raw or Steeped
CBD oil is often tasteless and flavorless but may have a ‘hemp’ or ‘herb’ flavor when consumed. Some individuals tolerate it or may even like the raw flavor, but for others, it is too much. This has created a substantial demand for the flavored versions of CBD oil; starting from plain mint and ending in exotic fruit mixes. An acerbic or astringent taste is present in a true tincture alcohol. This explains why these products are even less popular and tend to use a lot of additional sweeteners or flavor in order to be palatable.
Comparing CBD Tincture vs Oil Shelf Lives
Undoubtedly, tinctures stand out. In fact, alcohol serves truly as a great purpose for preservation. For example, an alcohol-preserved CBD tincture can last and be effective for about 5 years with proper storage in a cool, less-than-ideal environment. The same does not hold for CBD oils because they are usually only half the age of the CBD tincture for about 1-2 years. This is due to the fact that the oil, as any other carrier oils used in oils, can expire over time and the contained cannabinoids can break down and become ineffective. For the vast bulk of CBD users who use it regularly, the one-year expiry period of a tincture is ample; however, the leisure user reach of a tincture is extended with its long shelf life.
Absorbency & Bioavailability
Many people may not understand the meaning of bioavailability; it entails the amount of a substance that is biologically available in the body. When you put CBD oil or tincture under your tongue, also known as sublingual for some time, the emulsion is directly taken by the blood into the body without passing through the digestive tract. Because of this extra absorption of the active ingredient through the membrane, which accompanies this method of consumption, the bioavailability of the active ingredient is higher than if it would have been simply swallowed.
In the CBD tincture vs oil debate, it has been put that the alcohol found in a CBD tincture may seem to make up a little for that deficit. Even then, any variation is insignificant and these forms are products designed and intended for both methods equally. The carrier oil which is in the CBD oil, on the other hand, helps in the absorption of the cannabinoids which are soluble in fats such as the cannabinoids present in CBD into the body.
Patient Process of Using CBD Oil and Tinctures
These products may have different bases; however, the way a CBD oil and tincture are used is slightly the same. The most preferred and efficient way is to take them under the tongue (sublingually).
- Give the bottle a good shake (up and down – this is important): To mix the CBD extract well with the base solution.
- Take out the glass dropper: They can use the glass dropper supplied with the bottle for this purpose, which is invariably helpful.
- Place under the tongue: Put the dropper under the tongue and squeeze the contents onto the under surface of the tongue.
- Wait: Let the liquid emulsified in the mouth to sit for a minimum of 30 to 90 seconds. More of this time allows for greater absorption of the chemical into the bloodstream.
- Engage the swallowing mechanism: Engage the swallowing mechanism to rid the remaining volume.
This product can also be incorporated into your meals such as cooking oil with CBD tincture vs oil. This is another viable way of making it because you hate the taste. However, one thing to note is that for CBD to enter the digestive system, it does have to undergo processing within your intestine. This is due to what is known as the ‘first pass effect,’ wherein whatever CBD is ingested would need to conform and break through a number of these barriers in order for it to reach the blood respectively albeit in small quantity.
Different Uses for CBD, What’s in the Bottle?
When assessing the effectiveness between CBD tincture vs oil, it is essential to note that benefits, if any, are derived from CBD itself, not the mode of introduction in the body. The delivery then determines – either oil or tincture – which means CBD can be introduced into the body. There are studies and experiences that acknowledge that CBD has the potential to assist with various health objectives.
- Calming Purpose: There are a considerable number of users of CBD who have opted for this cannabinoid because they hoped for relaxation and stress reduction.
- Helping with Sleep Patterns: Some struggle to sleep and some, on the other hand, struggle to have good quality sleep; CBD may help out in such instances.
- Help with Recovery after Workouts: It is well within the bounds of reality to state that many sports personalities use CBD to combat the after-effects of exercise such as pain in muscles due to inflammation.
Note: The following information is meant for education only; it is not intended to override any therapeutic advice. The CBD is not registered by the FDA in prevention, treatment, diagnosis, or curing of any disease. Prior to trying out any new supplement, ensure you speak to your physician.
Choosing Which One: The CBD Oil Versus Tincture Dilemma
And so, what is the solution? The answer to the CBD tincture vs oil dilemma lies in what you want primarily. Here’s a brief guide for you to make the choice.
CBD Oil may be a good option for you if:
- You cannot tolerate alcoholic beverages. This is by far the most crucial consideration. If for any reason you refrain from the consumption of alcohol, CBD oil would be the choice to make.
- You detest the taste in its natural or raw form. Although the flavor of plain oil is heartful, its various flavor options in CBD oils allow everyone to get a taste they can look forward to.
- You want the most common product. CBD oils are more readily available in the market than alcohol-based tinctures.
You could select an actual CBD Tincture whereby:
- You go for the extended longevity of the product. If it happens that you rarely use this product, then it may be more advantageous to purchase a tincture that could go for a number of years.
- It seems better absorbed to you. It has been said that alcohol as a base tends to produce effects fairly quicker as what some members of trade are concerned.
- The taste does not bother you if it is incredibly alcoholic. In case taste is not an issue, then a proper tincture is an alternative worth considering.
Probably the biggest point is that any such preparation must have its constituents stated or otherwise have a list of them. This is typically because most so-called “tinctures” viewed at the front are actually oils posing as tinctures on the shelf. Look to the back in order to know the base of the product whether it is alcohol or a carrier oil, for instance, MCT. It is the only way that one can check for what they are purchasing under the CBD tincture vs oil debate.
Commonly Asked Questions (FAQ) Concerning The Writer And His Or Her Art Of (Writing)
Which one has more efficacy, CBD oil or a tincture?
I don’t think the potency is related to the form, whether a tincture or oil. Its potency or strength is determined by the CBD concentration recorded in milligrams (mg) in the bottle. An example is a 1000 mg CBD oil and a 1000 mg CBD tincture is of equal potency, only if their bottles are of the same size. The CBD tincture vs oil distinction is in the base ingredient and not the strength of the active ingredient.
Can you drink a tincture that has CBD?
Use of true alcohol-based tinctures or CBD oils in juices, smoothies, coffee, or tea is acceptable. Alcohol-infused tinctures are water-based and will dissolve readily into any water-based drinks. Do note that when suggestions such as this method of taking CBD are applied, the bioavailability is reduced as opposed to sublingual use.
How Will I Know if I am using Oil and Not a Tincture?
Look for the ingredients label at the back of the box. If the first or second ingredient right after hemp extract is alcohol (in most cases as “food grade ethyl alcohol”), then you’ve got a real tincture. If MCT oil, coconut oil, hemp seed oil, or olive oil is present as a carrier, it’s CBD oil and not a tincture as the bottle states.
What works better against anxiety: CBD in a tincture form or in an oil form?
Any perceived relaxation properties depend on the cannabidiol (CBD) itself, not the form in which it has been supplied. As such, either of these solubility mediums, i.e., an oil or a tincture, does not in and of itself describe which of them will be more or less effective for easing anxiety. It is about taste, alcohol ratio, preservation, and what one prefers of CBD tincture vs oil for this reason. It is important to counsel a physician or a counselor/therapist for help with anxiety.
Final Thoughts
It appears that the CBD tincture vs oil concerns are quite unfounded. The main differences lie in the base fluid: conventional tinctures usually depend on an alcohol solution, whereas CBD oils require a lipophilic liquid. Different products affect how the body receives the herb in different ways, including (but not limited to) the palate of the product in a lactose-based tincture, or in an oil-based preparation. Although genuine alcohol-based tinctures are available, the vast majority of items available in dropper bottles are CBD oils instead of actual tinctures. Eventually, both are good substitutional ways of consuming CBD. Ingredients listed in the back of the bottle help you to look beyond these mind-boggling marketing words by choosing what is best for your body and the place you are at in your healing process.