Cannabis Tinctures: Creation, Consumption, And Dosages

In today’s fast-moving world of cannabis innovation – with everything from rosin pens to nano-emulsified cannabis beverages – it is easy to overlook time-tested classics. One such cornerstone in the history of plant medicine is the cannabis tincture. Documented as far back as 1025 in Avicenna’s Canon of Medicine, tinctures have remained a staple remedy across generations. Despite the explosion of modern products, good cannabis and effective delivery methods never go out of style.

What Is A Cannabis Tincture?

At its core, a cannabis tincture is a liquid cannabis extract intended for oral or sublingual (under-the-tongue) use. The process involves soaking cannabis flower in a base liquid – typically high-proof alcohol, glycerin, or oil – for several weeks. The resulting solution contains cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial plant compounds.

Though the term “tincture” technically refers to an alcohol-based solution, many people now use it more broadly to describe cannabis infusions in glycerin or oil as well. Tinctures are usually packaged in 30 ml dropper bottles, making it easy to administer precise and consistent doses. 

Tinctures Vs. Edibles

While tinctures and edibles are both ingested, they are absorbed differently by the body. Edibles must pass through the digestive system and liver, where THC is converted into the more potent 11-hydroxy-THC. This process enhances the high but also delays onset.

Tinctures, when taken sublingually, bypass the liver and enter the bloodstream via mucous membranes in the mouth. This means faster onset (within 15–30 minutes), though the effects are typically less intense than with edibles.

Tinctures Vs. CBD Oil

Though they look similar, tinctures and CBD oils differ in composition and application. Most commercially available CBD oils are extracted from hemp and combined with a carrier oil using CO2 or solvent-based methods.

Cannabis tinctures, especially those sold through licensed dispensaries, are often full-spectrum extracts that may include THC and other cannabinoids. Also, alcohol-based tinctures cannot be applied topically like oil-based CBD products.

Benefits Of Using Cannabis Tinctures

Despite lacking the flash of newer cannabis products, tinctures offer numerous advantages:

• Minimal ingredients: Ideal for those avoiding common food allergens. No sugar, gluten, or artificial dyes required.
• Discreet: Tinctures look like wellness products and do not produce smoke or odour.
• Flexible dosing: You control how much you consume, drop by drop.
• Fast-acting: Effects kick in faster than edibles but are longer-lasting than smoking.
• Full-spectrum experience: Alcohol tinctures extract a broad range of cannabinoids and terpenes.

How To Use Cannabis Tinctures

Tinctures are simple to use. Start with a small dose – as little as 0.10 ml – especially if you are new to THC. Administer the tincture under your tongue and let it absorb for 30 seconds before swallowing.

The mucous membranes in your mouth help cannabinoids enter your bloodstream directly, avoiding the digestive system.

You can also add tinctures to food or drinks, though this changes how they are metabolised and may delay onset of effects.

THC Tincture Dosage Guide

(Example based on a 300 mg THC/30 ml tincture):

DOSAGE (ml)	THC (mg)	Effects
0.10 ml	3 mg	Microdose; minimal intoxication
0.25 ml	7.5 mg	Light dose; mild effects, good for beginners
0.50 ml	15 mg	Moderate dose; noticeable but manageable high
1.00 ml	30 mg	Strong effects; suitable for experienced users
2.00 ml	60 mg	Very strong; best for those with high tolerance or medical needs

Rule of thumb: Start low and go slow. Everyone’s tolerance and body chemistry is different.

How To Make A Cannabis Tincture At Home

Homemade tinctures are cost-effective and simple to prepare with minimal equipment.

Ingredients

• 3.5–14 grams cannabis flower (raw or decarboxylated)
• 88–354 ml high-proof food-grade alcohol (e.g., Everclear) or glycerin/oil

Equipment

• Mason jars
• Cheesecloth or coffee filters
• Glass dropper bottles

Instructions

1. Decarboxylation: To activate THC and CBD, bake your ground cannabis on a tray at 105–115 ºC for 30–60 minutes. Skip this step if you prefer non-intoxicating THCA and CBDA.

2. Combine ingredients: Add your decarbed flower and base liquid to a jar. Seal and shake well.

3. Infuse: Let the mixture steep in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks. Shake daily to improve infusion.

4. Strain and store: After the steeping period, strain through cheesecloth into clean glass dropper bottles. Store in a dark, cool place.

Quick Freeze Method

Need tincture fast? Try the freezer method.

1. Decarb your cannabis.
2. Freeze both your flower and alcohol separately overnight.
3. Mix, shake for 1 minute, and return to the freezer. Repeat 3 times.
4. Strain and bottle.

This method shortens infusion time but may yield a less potent product.

Choosing the Right Base: Alcohol vs. Glycerin vs. Oil

• Alcohol: Most effective for extracting cannabinoids and terpenes. Best bioavailability for sublingual use. (Use only food-grade alcohol like Everclear.)
• Glycerin: Sweeter and gentler on the mouth. Ideal for those avoiding alcohol, but weaker extraction power.
• Oil: Common in wellness products. Good for mild doses and topical use, but least efficient at binding cannabinoids.

Can You Cook with Cannabis Tinctures?

It depends. High heat can degrade cannabinoids, so avoid adding tinctures to foods that will be baked or fried. Instead, mix into sauces, smoothies, salad dressings, or tea after cooking.

Storage And Shelf Life

Proper storage of your cannabis tincture can preserve its potency and flavour for a long time. Tinctures should be stored in a cool, dark place – preferably in amber glass dropper bottles to protect against light degradation. When kept under ideal conditions, alcohol-based tinctures can last for several years. Always ensure the cap is tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and contamination.

Tinctures For Medical Cannabis Users

For patients who rely on cannabis to manage chronic symptoms – such as pain, anxiety, insomnia, or epilepsy – tinctures offer a uniquely practical solution. Their precise dosing, rapid absorption, and long shelf life make them ideal for people who require consistent therapeutic results. Additionally, tinctures avoid the respiratory risks of smoking and are easier to ingest than edibles for patients with digestive sensitivities. For these reasons, many healthcare practitioners recommend tinctures as a preferred method of cannabis delivery in medical settings.

Cannabis tinctures may lack the glamour of infused sodas or potent dabs, but their simplicity, discretion, and versatility have earned them a timeless spot in cannabis culture. Whether you are a first-time user seeking therapeutic relief or a seasoned enthusiast looking for efficient, full-spectrum delivery, tinctures are a highly customisable and effective option.

Start low, choose the right base, and tailor your experience drop by drop. After all, some classics never go out of style.