How To Take CBD Oil | CBD Oil vs. CBD Tinctures

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably seen and heard how the health and wellness space continues to buzz with excitement over CBD, particularly CBD oil.

From mood imbalances to physical discomfort, it seems that CBD oils and other CBD oil products have the potential to provide a variety of health-supporting benefits for both humans and pets.

But have you ever wondered about CBD tinctures and how they differ from CBD oil? Are they the same thing - or do they work differently in your body?

In this article, we’ll break down how to take CBD oil, the key differences between CBD oil vs CBD tinctures, and how to get the most out of each form.

What Is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in hemp. It’s one of many cannabinoids that occur naturally in the plant and does not produce the high associated with THC. By law, hemp-derived CBD products contain less than 0.3% THC.

The body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) helps regulate mood, sleep, and discomfort. CBD interacts with ECS receptors like CB1 and CB2 to help maintain balance and promote overall wellness.

While early research shows promise, the FDA has not approved CBD for most medical uses. It’s best to talk with a healthcare professional before trying CBD, especially if you take prescription medications or have existing conditions.

CBD Oil vs. CBD Tincture: Is There a Difference?

People often use the terms “CBD oil” and “CBD tincture” interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Understanding the difference can help you choose the right form of CBD for your needs.

Both oil and tinctures contain CBD extracted from hemp, but the way they’re made and how you use them differs.

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from hemp plants and blending it with a carrier oil such as olive oil, MCT oil, or hemp seed oil. This oil-based product is versatile, allowing for sublingual use, topical application, or mixing into foods.

CBD oils are available in different types, including full spectrum CBD oil, broad spectrum CBD oil, and CBD isolate. Full spectrum contains all the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant, including trace 0.3% THC, which may contribute to the entourage effect. Broad spectrum CBD oil removes THC but keeps other beneficial cannabinoids for a balanced result.

CBD oil can also be used in CBD gummies, CBD capsules, or creams, offering flexibility for users who prefer different delivery methods.

What Is CBD Tincture?

A CBD tincture is created by steeping hemp in alcohol or another solvent to extract cannabinoids and terpenes. After several weeks, the mixture is filtered, and most of the alcohol evaporates, leaving a concentrated liquid rich in active compounds.

This method preserves cannabinoids and terpenes, creating a fast-acting, potent liquid. However, tinctures may have a strong, bitter flavor, which is why some brands add sweeteners or natural flavors to make them easier to take.

CBD tincture use typically involves placing a few drops under your tongue, holding for 30–60 seconds, then swallowing. This sublingual method allows CBD to enter your bloodstream more quickly, bypassing the digestive tract for faster results.

What’s The Difference Between CBD Oil and CBD Tincture?

While both CBD oils and tinctures can promote health-benefitting effects, the main differences lie in how they’re made, their ingredients, and how your body absorbs them.

FeatureCBD OilCBD TinctureExtractionCO2 extractionAlcohol or solvent extractionBaseOil-based (olive, MCT, hemp seed)Alcohol-basedTasteMilderBitter, sometimes flavoredAbsorptionModerate, oil digests slowlyFast-acting, absorbs sublinguallyUseOral, topical, in foodOral or sublingual use only

If you’re sensitive to alcohol, CBD oil may be the better choice. However, if you want quicker absorption, hemp oil tinctures may deliver results in as little as 30 minutes.

How To Take CBD Oil and CBD Tinctures

Not sure how to use a CBD tincture or how to take CBD oil properly? Follow these CBD hemp oil directions to get the best results.

Sublingual Use

Place a few drops of oil or tincture under your tongue and hold for 30–60 seconds before swallowing. This allows the CBD to absorb directly into your bloodstream through the sublingual gland, making it fast-acting and efficient.

Oral Ingestion

You can add CBD oil to your favorite drink or meal. Avoid mixing it into hot liquids, as heat can reduce potency. Cold or room-temperature foods work best.

Pair with Healthy Fats

Since CBD is oil-based, taking it with fats like olive oil or avocado can help your body absorb it more effectively.

Dosing Tips

Start with small amounts and increase gradually. Your serving size depends on body weight, tolerance, and the concentration of your CBD product. Always follow the label’s dosing instructions and adjust slowly to find what works best.

If you’re ever unsure or are currently on medication, consult a healthcare professional before beginning any new CBD routine.

The CBD Entourage Effect

The entourage effect refers to the synergistic relationship between cannabinoids (like CBD, CBG, and THC) and terpenes found in hemp. Together, they enhance each other’s health-benefitting properties.

Studies suggest that full spectrum CBD oil, which includes trace 0.3% THC, may offer stronger support for wellness compared to isolates. If you prefer to avoid THC altogether, broad spectrum CBD oil provides similar benefits without it.

Hemp Seed Oil vs. CBD Oil

It’s easy to confuse hemp seed oil and CBD oil, but they’re very different. Hemp seed oil is pressed from hemp seeds and is rich in nutrients and fatty acids but doesn’t contain cannabinoids. CBD oil, on the other hand, is extracted from the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant, containing CBD including other beneficial compounds.

Both oils can support wellness, but CBD oil interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, while hemp seed oil does not.

Takeaways: Is CBD Tincture Better Than CBD Oil?

The answer depends on your needs and preferences. Oil and tinctures both provide valuable wellness support but differ in their extraction methods and absorption rates.

• Tinctures are alcohol-based and fast-acting, perfect for those who want quick results.
• CBD oils are oil-based, more versatile, and ideal for daily or long-term use.

Those seeking a purer or broad spectrum CBD oil may prefer CO2-extracted options. Always look for reputable brands that perform third-party testing to ensure safety and consistency.

For best results, start slow, find your ideal dose, and consult with a healthcare professional if you take other medications. With the right product and dosing, both CBD oil and CBD tinctures can play a powerful role in supporting a balanced lifestyle.

 

Zatural CBD Oils

 

For educational purposes only.

*FDA DISCLAIMER -These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.