CBD Tincture vs CBD Oil

CBD tincture vs. CBD oil: which one is the right option? Are they both the same product? If you’re new to the CBD world and these questions have appeared in the back of your mind, this article is for you. According to several studies, CBD has become quite popular in recent years due to its many benefits to the body.

This compound is present in the market in different presentations, being tinctures and oils some of the most common. It is also available as pills, edibles, and even vape juice. However, when it comes to CBD tincture and CBD oil, it’s very common for people to get confused as both terms are used interchangeably.

However, despite having similar effects, they have very distinctive properties that make them unique to the user. Today’s article will explain everything you need to know regarding how CBD tincture and CBD oil differ from each other. Both are CBD-based products, but each option could be more appealing to determined people.

What is CBD Oil?

CBD oil contains CBD previously extracted from the hemp plant, combined with a carrier oil. Therefore, it’s oil-based. It has diverse extraction methods, which define its THC content. The CBD extract comes from all the plant parts, such as the leaves, flowers, or stalks.

It comes from a specific species of the hemp plant, a variation of Cannabis. Legally speaking, these products can only contain a maximum of 0.3 percent THC, which is the compound responsible for the “euphoric” effect associated with Cannabis. As for the carrier oils, they might be different depending on the manufacturer. For instance, MCT, olive, or coconut oil.

Ingredients Used

As mentioned, CBD oil comes from the combination of carrier oil and CBD extract. However, some manufacturers also include other compounds, such as essential oils, flavorings, or additional ingredients, like vitamins and minerals.

These ingredients vary from one producer to another. The composition of CBD oil can be considered less complex than that of CBD tincture, as it contains fewer ingredients.

Pros and Cons of CBD Oil

Pros

• It’s very easy to dose and take.
• You can use it orally and topically.
• Most oils are mixable with foods or beverages.
• It’s possible to find different options based on potency and flavor.
• It doesn’t contain too many ingredients, making it safer for most people.

Cons

• It can be costly compared to other CBD forms.
• It may have a strong flavor.

What is a CBD Tincture?

While CBD oil uses oil as the base, a CBD tincture uses alcohol as its base. The obtention process consists of the use of high-proof alcohol to extract all the natural components found within the hemp plant. Alcohol continues to be present in the final product, too.

This specific extraction method contains all the components of the cannabis plant and maintains the product protected against oxidation. However, it requires going through refinement and filtration processes multiple times. This compound also has a bitter taste. Some manufacturers add sweeteners or flavorings to “hide” the bitterness.

Vegetable glycerin might be used too, but again, it depends on the manufacturer. CBD tinctures can be harder to find. It may be due to the bitter taste. Also, most products in the market are mistakenly labeled as “tinctures,” but in reality, they’re oils. If you want to buy CBD tincture, make sure it is alcohol-based.

Ingredients Used

CBD tinctures have a more complex structure. As mentioned, it contains alcohol to a certain degree. Of course, it also includes water, but it may also contain some of the following ingredients, based on the manufacturer:

• Vitamins (B12 or C, for example)
• Sweetener, flavorings, or even vegetable glycerin.
• Essential oils.
• Other ingredients like herbs or melatonin may also be present. Generally speaking, it has all the compounds found in hemp extract.

Pros and Cons of CBD Tinctures

Pros

• It’s quite easy to take.
• You can combine it with foods or beverages.
• It works best if you take it sublingually, as it allows rapid absorption.

Cons

• It has a bitter taste.
• It isn’t very easy to find it.
• It doesn’t have high potency as a topical alternative.

Differences Between CBD Oil and Tincture

While CBD oil and CBD tincture are taken for the same purpose, they are specific differences that make each product more appealing to determined people.

BaseFirstly, CBD oil utilizes an oil carrier or base, while CBD tincture is alcohol-based. However, both compounds have similar effects on the body as they’re based on the same component from the hemp plant. Hence, what matters the most is the dosage.

Shelf Life

It’s typical for CBD tinctures to last more than CBD oil-based products due to the presence of alcohol within their structure. Ethyl alcohol is a preservative, allowing CBD to last for about five years.

On the other hand, CBD oil has an expiration date. At some point, it will start showing signs that it is starting to go bad. Hence, it’s recommendable to keep your CBD oil products in a place away from sunlight and heat.

Taste and Flavor

Again, CBD tinctures tend to have a bitter taste due to the presence of alcohol. However, even though CBD oil doesn’t have this ingredient, it may also have a bitter taste, but to a softer degree.

It is quite common for both options to have some extra ingredients, like a sweetener or essential oil, to mask the natural taste of the product. If you don’t like the idea of using these additional compounds, you can always find unflavored versions of both products.

Consistency and Texture

As you can guess, CBD oils then to be thick and greasy, especially if their base is MCT oil. On the other hand, CBD tinctures tend to be lighter and not as oily. However, that doesn’t mean that CBD oil can be more powerful than CBD tincture and vice versa. It all comes down to what you consider is best for you.

For instance, if you don’t like thicker and viscous compounds, CBD oils may not be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you would like something “thinner,” perhaps CBD tinctures might be better for you.

CBD Oil and CBD Tincture: Which is Better?

We can tell you there is a better option between CBD oil and CBD tincture because both products are used with the same purpose in mind. For instance, some people may choose CBD oil over the tincture because of the consistency, but you can’t expect both compounds to have different effects.

CBD oil and CBD tincture have identical properties and benefits. It’s also necessary for you to keep in mind that choosing CBD oil or CBD tincture depends on your intentions with the compound. For instance, CBD oil has a better effect when taken orally but can also be used as a topical remedy.

On the other hand, CBD tincture is better when taken sublingually. Either way, your intentions with the product or the way you use it don’t reduce the value of the product. The CBD industry is exponentially growing every day as most people become informed of the benefits of the compound.

It doesn’t matter what product you choose. It is always important for you to conduct deep research about what you want and the brands you are interested in so you can do something that adjusts better to your goals while also making sure it is 100% safe for you to take.

What is the Best Way to Take CBD Oil and Tinctures?

The uses of CBD oil and tinctures depend on the condition you’re trying to treat. Generally speaking, it’s advised to take both products sublingually. Hence, you must place a few drops of oil below your tongue, which allows the tiny capillaries in your mouth to absorb it.

However, if the flavor is too bitter or strong for you, you can always add the same dosage of CBD oil or CBD tincture to your food or beverage. Still, keep in mind that your body won’t be able to absorb too much CBD oil this way, as it’ll have to go through the digestive system first.

Although CBD oil and tinctures are easy to find in their traditional presentations, you can also find edibles (gummies are a common example) that contain either of these compounds as a base. If you have localized issues like skin conditions, you can always mix either option with your skin products.

Last but not least, it’s never recommended to vape CBD oils or tinctures because they could be harmful to your body. Some CBD vape oils are available for this purpose, making it safer for you to take them.

Hence, CBD is quite versatile. There are tons of presentations that can cater to the needs of different users. That is why it is necessary for you to research what you want (or need) to make sure that you’re purchasing the correct CBD-based product.

How to Choose High-Quality CBD Oils and Tinctures?

It is important to choose some factors to take into account while you’re purchasing the product. This way, you can make sure that the product you’ve chosen is safe, potent, and effective for your body.

Hemp Source

CBD-based products may use different hemp sources in their products. Hence, you probably want to be sure that the CBD product you’re choosing has the highest quality possible.

Most companies share with their clients the hemp plant types they use during the manufacturing process. US-grown hemp tends to have the highest quality among all the CBD products out there.

Third-Party Testing

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate CBD products. That’s why most companies recur to third-party laboratories to verify the content of what they offer. This process allows their clientele to get to know the precise content of the product and each of the compounds it contains.

CBD Potency

If you want a truly potent product, you should go for CBD. However, CBD tinctures last for longer periods. The CBD potency can vary from one product to another. You will typically find them under the certificate of analysis.

Certifications

It’s not enough to make sure that the product is safe to consume with independent laboratory tests. You should also make sure that the brand has received the proper certifications from the U.S. Hemp Authority. Most of the time, companies make these certifications public.

Extraction Methods

There are different extraction methods available out there. For instance, the CO2 extraction method happens to be the most utilized because it allows the manufacturer to safely obtain the highest quantity of CBD extract. Other obtainment processes include ethanol, for instance.

Brand Reputation

The CBD company is wholesome. If someone has had a good experience with a particular product, they will likely recommend it to others. Most brands will also have comments available on their website, but it’s better if you find recommendations on a third-party website. The best CBD oils are those that come from reputable brands that offer transparency.

Side Effects of CBD Oil and Tinctures

Research has demonstrated that CBD is safe for consumption. However, it’s not unusual for people to experience certain side effects, which may include fatigue or appetite changes. In rare cases, some people experience diarrhea.

Please, make sure to consult with a medical professional before you start consuming CBD, especially if you’re under treatment or are currently taking any supplement. CBD is known to interact with certain compounds. Last but not least, pregnant or breastfeeding people should not take CBD.

Conclusion

Generally speaking, CBD oils and CBD tinctures possess the same benefits, but their textures may attract different people. It’s also important to keep in mind that although both products have similar benefits, they are different products. Both options come from CBD hemp extract.

CBD oil uses oil as the base, while a CBD tincture is alcohol-based. Again, the product you choose is up to your preferences. You can consult with your physician or any other medical professional to find out more information about your options.

CBD is known for having an anti-inflammatory and relaxing effect that can help you cope with diverse conditions, like arthritis, COPD, anxiety, and depression. It doesn’t matter if you choose CBD oil or CBD tincture – you’ll experience a similar effect in the end.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Do You Use CBD Tincture for?

You can take advantage of CBD tincture for the same reasons you’d use CBD oil. It can be useful for treating certain conditions due to its anti-inflammatory and relaxing effect. Again, the only difference between CBD oil and CBD tincture is the base.

How Long Does CBD Tincture Last in Your System?

CBD may last in your system anywhere from one hour to five days. It depends on the product and the potency. If the product contains THC, it may appear on drug tests, too.

How Do I Choose a CBD Tincture?

You can choose CBD tinctures based on the CBD potency, brand reputation, certifications, and hemp source. It’s also important to take into account where the hemp comes from, as it will define whether the product has high quality or not.

Do CBD Tinctures and CBD Oils Have the Same Benefits?

CBD tinctures and CBD oils have the same benefits. The only difference between both options is the base (and some of the ingredients).

How Long Does it Take for CBD Oil or Tincture to Kick in?

When taken orally, CBD may start taking effect on your body after one or two hours because your digestive system is processing the compound. If you want the product to act faster, perhaps you can choose to take it sublingually (underneath the tongue).

This way, the mucous membranes on the mouth will absorb the product, allowing your body to absorb more CBD. Keep in mind that CBD oil takes longer to take effect compared to CBD tinctures.