If you’ve never heard of or used a tincture before, you’re not alone. Most people aren’t familiar with them, though they’re entering the public consciousness more now that substances that utilize them like cannabis, CBD, and other herbal compounds that can be utilized in this way are becoming more popular. So what are they? How do they function? Are they safe to try? If you’re considering it, read on to find out a whole lot more about tinctures and how they work.
What is a tincture?
First, it’s important that we define what exactly a tincture is. These are concentrated versions of various herbs and plants that have been made by soaking things like leaves and bark in alcohol or vinegar. This essentially pulls out the active ingredients in the herb and concentrates them into an easy to use liquid form. This liquid is typically taken orally, by placing a dropper under the tongue and consuming accordingly. The history of these concentrated oils is long and some experts believe they’ve been used by humans as far back in time as 1000 C.E. Cannabis products remain one of the most popular plants associated with tincture use, and consumers often try to make their own at home. For those without professional experience, it’s probably best to stick to purchasing the premade version.
What are tinctures used for?
Tinctures are used to produce consumable and highly concentrated versions of various herbs. Herbs that are often used include chamomile, gingko leaf, valerian root, St. John’s wort, and various parts of the cannabis plant including weed and cannabidiol-based products. They are helpful for anyone who regularly uses herbs of any kind and who prefers a smokeless method of ingestion. Since the FDA does not regulate the use of tinctures, it’s important to learn about the ingredients and products before you buy them. A variety of different types are available for purchase online, in wellness stores, and even in some grocery stores or drug stores. If you’re unsure about how a herb will affect you and what its properties are, don’t be afraid to ask questions before you make a purchase.
CBD and cannabis remain essential to the tincture industry. CBD products become widely adopted, there has been a lot of buzz about the CBD tincture. If you’re unfamiliar, CBD is short for cannabidiol, one of the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant that has become popular with many customers as a relaxing and recreational treat. CBD tinctures function the same way as any other type would and have become a popular way to consume CBD products involving taking very small amounts throughout the day instead of one larger serving. Figuring out which serving size works for you is incredibly individual and varies by how strong the individual product is, in addition to how your body processes it, which is different for every individual. It’s always best to start slow.
Tinctures have been used for centuries and are considered a major part of many types of herbal medicine, as well as being used for recreational purposes. Now, they’re still used for the same purpose and are more accessible to customers than they’ve ever been. Since the process of making your own tinctures can be difficult and time-consuming, the ability to purchase them premade by experts with industrial strength equipment is a massive boon for enthusiasts or those looking to give them a try for the first time. The process of creating the concentrated oil brings out the active ingredients and creates a potent product that you can use for a variety of herbs and plants, whenever the mood strikes. Despite their long history, tinctures have become a thoroughly modern way of consuming incredibly popular products.
