How to Take CBD Oil 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 oils).

From mood imbalances to physical discomfort, it seems that CBD oils and other CBD-based products have the potential to provide a multitude of benefits to both humans and their beloved pets.

However, we have yet to delve deeper into the CBD tincture variety and its role in possibly assisting with overall health and wellness. What differences, if any, are there between CBD oils and CBD tinctures?

Knowing the answer just might give you enough insights to know which one has the better chance of potentially assisting with your health needs.

In this article, we’ll focus the spotlight on CBD tincture — what it is, how it differs from CBD oil, and how to get the most out of it — so that you can build a deeper understanding of how it can potentially improve your overall health and well-being and figure out if it’s a better option than CBD oil (or not).

Let’s begin.

 

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the hemp plant and one of the many compounds known as cannabinoids. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, CBD does not have psychoactive properties — meaning it does not produce a “high”.

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex biological system in the human body that helps regulate various bodily functions such as sleep, appetite, mood, and pain sensation.

CBD, being structurally similar to endocannabinoids (the body’s naturally occurring, lipid-based neurotransmitters), is theorized to possibly interact with the ECS by stimulating certain receptors in the body, such as the CB1 and CB2 receptors.

This, in turn, may possibly assist in maintaining internal balance and promoting overall wellness for both humans and other mammals.

However, science can’t conclusively prove any of CBD’s benefits yet. This is why the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warning letters to companies that make unproven health claims about CBD without sufficient evidence to support them.

Therefore, it is important to be cautious when incorporating CBD into your daily health regimen and to always consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new CBD-based therapy.

 

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

The terms “CBD oil” and “CBD tincture” are often used interchangeably. However, there are some key differences between the two that are worth delving into.

By understanding these key differences, consumers can make more informed decisions about which product may be best suited for their individual needs.

As such, we will explore these differences in more detail below and discuss how they can impact the bioavailability and efficacy of CBD oils and CBD tinctures.

 

What is CBD Oil?

CBD oil is a concentrated form of cannabidiol that is often extracted from high-CBD-low-THC strains of industrial hemp, which means that most CBD products in the market don’t contain (or have negligible traces of) THC versus those that are marijuana-based.

CBD oil is made up of only two ingredients: pure CO2-extracted CBD essence and a “carrier” oil such as medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) coconut, olive, or hemp seed oil. The carrier oil is used to help dilute the CBD extract and make it easier to consume.

This then creates a liquid substance that can be taken orally, added to food or drinks, or even applied topically to the skin.

CBD oil can also be transformed into different products, such as capsules, gummies, and topical creams. Some people even use CBD oil to make their own DIY products, including homemade salves and lotions.

It’s important to note that not all CBD oils are created equal. The quality and composition of CBD oil can vary greatly depending on the manufacturer and where they source their hemp.

 

What is CBD Tincture?

Tinctures have been used for centuries as a way to extract the medicinal properties of plants. In the case of most CBD tinctures, industrial hemp plant material is steeped in alcohol or another solvent for several weeks to extract the active compounds.

What follows is a filtering process in which most of the alcohol or solvent is evaporated off, leaving a potent liquid that contains CBD and other cannabinoids, as well as terpenes and other beneficial plant compounds.

This process helps protect the cannabinoids from oxidation, but it also results in a bitter, astringent taste. This is why tinctures are often infused with additional ingredients (like sweeteners) to make them more palatable.

Some manufacturers also include other herbal extracts and/or vitamins in their CBD tinctures to achieve certain benefits.

 

So, What’s the Difference Between CBD Oil and CBD Tincture?

And more importantly, what’s with all the confusion? For years, most manufacturers have labeled their products “CBD oil tincture” or “CBD tincture” when what they’re really selling are CBD oils and vice versa.

This is because CBD manufacturing and distribution hasn’t been regulated by the FDA yet, which means labels like “oil” and “tincture” haven’t been properly standardized. While this has more to do with being a harmless industry practice vs. a marketing scheme to get customers to buy more products, it has understandably confused people nonetheless.

To simplify, most CBD oils and CBD tinctures are set apart by composition, target issues, and dosage potency. First is composition. As discussed previously, CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and then mixing it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or hemp seed oil.

On the other hand, CBD tincture is made by soaking CBD-rich hemp plant material in high-proof grain alcohol and then infused with many other beneficial ingredients. The second difference is target issues. CBD oil and CBD tincture have different uses and, therefore, affect the body differently.

On the one hand, CBD oil is often used for its calming and relaxing effects. And since it can be applied topically, CBD oil can also be used for health concerns that require a more direct approach, such as skin issues.

On the other, CBD tincture can only be administered orally and sublingually (under the tongue). Hence, it may possibly assist with the same health concerns that CBD oils target, except skin issues.

And, lastly, dosage potency. In general, CBD tinctures have a higher concentration of CBD compared to CBD oil. This means that a smaller dose of tincture may potentially provide the same effects as a larger dose of oil.

 

How to Differentiate Between CBD Oil and CBD Tinctures

Differentiating between CBD oil and CBD tinctures can be confusing, especially when they are often harmlessly marketed interchangeably.

Fortunately, there are a few key differences that you can look for just by checking the ingredients list. To note, this isn’t a fool-proof process since most manufacturers still market their tinctures as oils (and vice versa), but it’s a great start-off point.

First, check for the presence of a carrier oil. CBD oil is typically made by Co2 extraction and then mixed with a carrier oil like coconut oil or hemp seed oil. While CBD tinctures are made by alcohol or other solvents and then mixed with other ingredients.

Second, check for additional ingredients. On the label, CBD oil will usually only have few ingredients: Pure CBD extract, carrier oil, natural sweeteners and flavor. CBD tinctures, however, will have more than two ingredients, such as additional sweeteners, essential oils, other herbal extracts, etc.

Finally, consider the mode of delivery. CBD oils and CBD tinctures can both be taken orally (such as added to food and drinks) and sublingually for faster absorption and higher bioavailability (more about this later). However, only CBD oils can be applied topically.

By checking these three factors, you can easily differentiate between CBD oils and CBD tinctures and choose the product that best suits your needs.

 

How to Take CBD Oil and CBD Tinctures

What is the best way to use CBD oil and CBD tinctures, you ask? Some ways are more effective than others. One way to use CBD oil is to place a few drops under your tongue and hold it there for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing. This method is called sublingual absorption, and it allows the CBD to enter your bloodstream quickly and efficiently.

Another way to use a CBD oil is to add it to any food or drink. You can mix it into your morning coffee or smoothie, or add it to your favorite recipe. However, keep in mind that adding CBD oil (or any CBD-based product, for that matter) to anything hot may decrease its effectiveness. So, it’s best to add it to cold or room-temperature foods and beverages.

To increase the bioavailability of CBD oil, you can also try combining them with healthy fats like hemp seed oil. This can help your body absorb more CBD and increase its effectiveness.

It’s also important to follow the dosing instructions on the label of your CBD oil. Start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired effects.

If you have any concerns or questions about how to use CBD oil, or if you’re currently taking other medications, the best and safest route is to consult with a healthcare professional.

 

What is CBD Bioavailability, and Can It Be Enhanced?

In a nutshell, CBD bioavailability refers to the amount of CBD that enters the bloodstream, the rate at which happens, and the likelihood of producing the desired effects. Bioavailability is affected by several factors, including the mode of delivery, product quality, dosage, and individual differences in physiology.

Modes of delivery can either be oral consumption or sublingual consumption. Oral consumption of CBD has low bioavailability because CBD is made to pass through the digestive system and liver (with stomach and liver enzymes breaking CBD down and lessening its potency) before entering the bloodstream.

In contrast, sublingual consumption of CBD involves placing the drops under the tongue, allowing for more direct and quicker absorption into the bloodstream through the rich capillary network there.

This method can have up to 30% higher bioavailability compared to oral consumption with only 6% to 20% bioavailability. Using high-quality products, taking them at the right times, using the correct dosages, and consuming them with a combination of complementary compounds also increase bioavailability.

For instance, taking CBD with fatty foods can enhance bioavailability. Also, experimenting with different dosages and timings can help individuals determine what works best for their specific body types and needs.

 

Terpenes in CBD Oil and the Entourage Effect

Still on the subject of bioavailability is an ever-crucial yet less talked about phenomenon: The entourage effect. The entourage effect refers to the phenomenon where the various compounds found in the cannabis plant work together to enhance their benefits. These compounds include the cannabinoids CBD and THC, and terpenes.

Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds that are found in many plants, including hemp. They are known for their aromatic properties and play a significant role in the effects of CBD oil and CBD tinctures.

When combined with cannabinoids, terpenes work in perfect synergy by enhancing each other’s effects, creating an entourage effect. Research has shown that the entourage effect may possibly have a significant impact on the effectiveness of CBD in delivering various health benefits.

Top-quality broad-spectrum CBD, for example, which contains a wide range of cannabinoids and terpenes but no THC, may potentially offer more assistance health-wise than even the best CBD isolates. This is because the entourage effect can only take place if all the compounds in the cannabis plant are present.

One study reports that CBD, when combined with terpenes, show much promise in producing a stronger calming effect than CBD alone. Another study highlights terpenes’ role in possibly enhancing CBD’s ability to improve physical discomfort.

However, as promising as all of these studies sound, we have yet to uncover robust evidence that conclusively proves CBD’s efficacy in addressing specific health concerns. Fortunately, as more thorough research is being done at present, we can start getting excited about what’s to come for CBD in the health and wellness space.

 

Hemp Seed Oil vs. CBD Oil: What’s the Difference?

Now that you have a firmer grasp of CBD oil and CBD tinctures, you’re probably still wondering about another hemp-derived compound that is also marketed similarly: Hemp seed oil. What is hemp seed oil? And how is it linked to CBD oil?

Hemp seed oil and CBD oil are both derived from the hemp plant, but they differ in their composition and benefits. For one, hemp seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant, while CBD oil is extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the plant.

Hemp seed oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, making it a popular ingredient in skin care products and food supplements. It does not, however, contain CBD or other cannabinoids and does not have the same health benefits as CBD oil.

CBD oil, on the other hand, contains high levels of cannabidiol CBD and other cannabinoids that may possibly interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, providing various health benefits that some users simply can’t get enough of.

While hemp seed oil and CBD oil are often used interchangeably, they are not the same. And it’s important to understand their differences to avoid confusion and ensure that you’re getting the product that best meets your needs.

 

Takeaways: Is CBD Tincture Better Than CBD Oil?

The short answer: It depends.

While CBD oils and CBD tinctures are similar in benefits, the subtleties of their differences and their individual effects cannot be overlooked. But, like most CBD-based products out there, the proof is in the proverbial pudding.

CBD tinctures are created through liquid solvent extraction — a process where hemp plants are soaked in cooled butane, isopropyl alcohol, or ethanol, filtered, and then evaporated off using low heat until a thick, concentrated extract is achieved.

CBD oils are processed through superficial CO2 extraction — a process where the hemp is placed inside a closed-loop CO2-filled extractor to produce pure CBD oil.

CBD tinctures offer the same benefits as CBD oil. However, they may not be a great option for people who are sensitive to alcohol or are averse to solvents in general (since alcohol and solvents also present some downsides health-wise).

CBD oils are much safer to use daily since they only have two naturally derived ingredients and can be an all-around oral, sublingual, and topical alternative that addresses a variety of needs.

If the experts at Zatural were to choose, CBD oil is your best bet if you want to get more bang for your buck without any undesirable effects.

Whatever you choose, always check the product quality to ensure that you’re only getting top-quality, third-party tested products that deliver on their promise.

Before anything else, however, you should always talk to a healthcare professional prior to pursuing any CBD-based therapies, especially if you are currently taking medications or have any underlying medical conditions.

Trusting your health to reliable sources and seeking professional advice are the best ways to make informed decisions about incorporating CBD into your daily wellness routine.

Zatural CBD Oils

 

For educational purposes only.

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