CBD Tinctures for Beginners

You’ve tried it all. Medications, massage, adjusting your lifestyle…but nothing can seem to treat chronic pain or anxiety that you face every day. It seems like you’re all out of options and have nowhere to turn for relief. 

Then someone recommends CBD tinctures. They come in a dropper, but they’re not the typical tincture that you see at the pharmacy. This is a tincture that comes from cannabis, and it was only recently legalized and sold throughout Canada. 

What is it? How do you use it? And what might happen if you use too much? We have all the answers you need in this guide to CBD tinctures for beginners. CBD can be a shining light in the tunnel of troubles that come with arthritis, fibromyalgia, or other chronic conditions. Educate yourself on this option as you invest in your health and well-being. 

What is CBD? 

CBD is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. Cannabis is an umbrella term that includes both marijuana and hemp plants. While hemp has maintained a fairly good reputation throughout history, marijuana has not been given such luck. 

CBD is found in marijuana, but it is found in higher qualities in hemp. The main difference between marijuana and hemp is that marijuana contains .03% THC, a separate chemical compound that often works with or against CBD to get users high. 

But CBD won’t get you high. This cannabinoid is more concerned with assisting the endocannabinoid system, a system that helps to maintain homeostasis (or balance.) The endocannabinoid system, with the help of CBD, can help to reduce inflammation and promote the release of neurotransmitters that make people feel calm and happy. This is why so many people take CBD – 

CBD on its own does wonders for many people, and there is a high demand for CBD in the health and wellness market. Manufacturers have responded by producing a myriad of CBD products, including CBD bath bombs and even CBD seltzers. But if you are looking to medicate with CBD, we highly recommend using a tincture. 

What Is a Tincture? 

Tinctures are not exclusive to cannabis products. Many herbalists use tinctures from echinacea or turmeric to support immune health and reduce pain. You can even make your own tinctures – all you need is alcohol. 

To make a tincture, you have to soak the plant or herb in alcohol for an extended period of time. The alcohol extracts compounds from the plant so you can ingest a more concentrated version of the “good stuff.” While dry flower may contain a small amount of CBD, tinctures are more pure and pack more of a punch. 

What Is The Difference Between CBD Oil and a CBD Tincture?

When you search online for CBD tinctures, you may run into some products called “CBD oil.” They look the same – but there’s one small difference between them. While CBD oil is purely extracted CBD, CBD tinctures are often mixed with other ingredients.

These ingredients tend to give the tincture the same texture as CBD oil. For example, the FeelCBD Full Spectrum CBD Tinctures contain grapeseed and coconut oils. The tinctures also come in a variety of “flavours.” Choose Sleep (made with ylang ylang and spearmint essential oils) for a calming night, or Focus (infused with lemon and lime essential oils) to stay alert during the day. 

How Do I Use CBD Tinctures? 

CBD tinctures come in dropper form. If you want, you can fill up your dropper and release it under your tongue. This quick and easy method is a preferred way for many users to ingest CBD, especially since many products have a slight flavour added to the tincture.

If you would rather have your CBD on the go, you can always pop it into a smoothie or another type of drink. While the CBD will most likely appear to disappear in the smoothie, it may be visible and feel a bit oily if you’ve put it in your coffee or tea. Be sure to mix your tincture thoroughly for an enjoyable cup. 

How Much CBD Tincture Should I Take? 

Most CBD tinctures contain a 1mL dropper. Some CBD users enjoy a dropper or two a day and feel that this amount can help them relieve stress or pain. If you are trying out CBD just to see what the hype is about, we recommend that you start with this amount of CBD.

Patients who are looking to treat more serious conditions, however, may take up to 40mL of CBD a day for their pain or symptoms. We don’t recommend that you start with 40mL off the bat if you’ve never tried CBD before. Start with 10mL or 20mL in one dosage and see how you feel. (A single CBD gummy may contain up to 25mL CBD.) 

If you are not sure how much CBD to take, talk to a medical professional about your condition and the best options for treating your symptoms. Your doctor may be able to recommend products that cater specifically to your needs and are not on the market for the general population.

Negative Side Effects of CBD Tinctures

Will too much tincture cause any negative side effects? 

It can, but it’s not likely. Side effects may include: 

• Dry mouth
• Diarrhea or nausea
• Reduced appetite
• Drowsiness and fatigue

(Ironically, many people take CBD to combat these symptoms.) Be sure to read the ingredients list on your CBD tincture before you purchase it. 

Patients who are currently on medication should also consult a medical professional before using CBD tinctures – CBD may interact with some types of medications. 

Where Do I Buy CBD Tinctures?

CBD tinctures are more accessible than other types of cannabis products, but you won’t be able to buy it on your next grocery store run. If you want to stop into a dispensary, you may be able to find some CBD tinctures, but there isn’t a large variety in brick-and-mortar locations.

Online dispensaries, however, offer Canadians a wider selection of CBD tinctures and other CBD products. Dispensaries also offer discreet delivery. Browse through our selection today to get started on your CBD journey with tinctures.