Around 14% of Americans use some sort of CBD product. In the last few years, the popularity of CBD has exploded, with many people claiming that it helps them with their ailments in ways that prescription drugs can’t.

While some smoke or vape it, others use edibles, topical products, or tinctures. Are you wondering: what is a CBD tincture? Then you’re in the right place.

In this article, we’ll give you all the important information you need to know about CBD so you can see if it’s something you should try.

What Is CBD?

First off: what is CBD? “CBD” is short for “cannabidiol,” which is a type of cannabinoid. Another commonly known cannabinoid is THC, which is what’s responsible for giving you that “high” when you partake in weed. Both CBD and THC can come from marijuana plants, but with hemp plants, these have very little THC and mainly CBD.

Basically, all the benefits you get from THC (besides the high, such as pain relief and stimulation of appetite) are possible with CBD. But because you don’t get “high,” this enables you to enjoy these benefits while retaining your sober state of mind. This means you’re able to go to work, operate heavy machinery, and more while taking CBD.

Why Does CBD Work?

Why does CBD work? Well, our bodies have something called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system is responsible for and/or linked to things like pain, inflammation, immunity, and mood.

Your body has 2 main cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2. Your body naturally makes some endocannabinoids to keep everything in equilibrium.

But sometimes, your body needs an extra boost. This is where CBD and THC come in.

Cannabinoids act similar to endocannabinoids, but instead of being naturally produced, they’re introduced to the body through methods like smoking or CBD tincture (more on that later). In theory, this should boost the binds of cannabinoids to the receptors and achieve things like pain relief.

What Is a CBD Tincture?

A CBD tincture is basically CBD oil in liquid form. It’s mixed in with both water and alcohol, so you don’t just get pure CBD.

For people who want tinctures that are alcohol-free, those are available as well. Instead of alcohol, the manufacturer will use vinegar, glycerin, or other oils in place of alcohol as the solvent. However, do note that these may make the tincture less potent, so if you’re looking for the maximum effects, you should probably stick to alcohol-based tinctures.

How Is a CBD Tincture Made?

For the purposes of this article, we’ll discuss CBD tinctures made with alcohol as a solvent.

CBD manufacturers first start the process by picking hemp that has a high CBD content. Once they have that, they’ll steep the flowers into high-proof grain alcohol (around 60% to 70%), which is then basically “stewed” for hours; it’s cooked on low heat for a long period of time.

At this point, the manufacturers may choose to mix in a flavored oil so their CBD tincture has a better taste for their customers. For example, they may choose a peppermint-flavored oil to mix in so it’s more pleasant; a pure CBD tincture can taste bitter.

Because the CBD oil is suspended in alcohol, this lets it have a very long shelf life. This is because the alcohol acts as a preservative.

What Is CBD Tincture Used For?

As we mentioned earlier, CBD tinctures can be used for pain relief. However, they can do so much more than that.

Many people also use CBD tinctures for anxiety, stress, inflammation, pulled muscles, insomnia, and even epilepsy. As you can see, CBD has some powerful effects, which means it may be worth a try if you’re struggling with any ailments and don’t find prescription medications to be particularly useful. Or if they are, they may have adverse side effects; in that case, CBD can help as well, as there are barely any side effects.

How to Use CBD Tinctures

CBD tinctures come in a small glass bottle; usually, an eyedropper is included so you can take your dosages easily. Put just a few drops under your tongue, hold them there for a minute, and then swallow. This allows your body to absorb it quicker than other oral methods.

However, if you dislike the taste, you can always try ingesting it. Many people put drops into their food and drinks. For example, you can put a few drops into your pasta or coffee.

The great thing about CBD is not only are there very side effects (if at all), but it’s impossible to overdose on. So feel free to experiment with the number of drops used to find the perfect amount for you. If you ever take too much, the most you’ll feel is some discomfort (such as nausea and diarrhea).

See If CBD Tinctures Work for You

Now you know the answer to the question: what is a CBD tincture? You’ve also learned how it’s made and what it’s used for.

With this knowledge, you can determine whether or not it’d be a good treatment to try. But as always, before you start any kind of medication or treatment, you should first speak with your doctor about it.

This is especially true if you’re planning on coming off f any prescription medications. Together with your GP, you can figure out the best options for you to ensure you remain in good health.

For more interesting articles on CBD, please take a look at our other blog posts now.