How to Choose and Use CBD Oil or Tincture

CBD oil and CBD tincture are two popular healthcare products produced from hemp plants’ leaves, stems, and flowers. The two have a lot of similarities but also some crucial differences. This article explains how to choose between CBD oil and tincture and how to use them.

CBD Oil vs. CBD Tincture: What’s the Difference?

Both CBD oil and CBD tincture are manufactured from the aerial parts (the leaves, stems, and flowers) of hemp. They contain a host of beneficial compounds, including cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. The exceptions are “CBD isolate” oils and tinctures, which contain CBD alone.

Although the terms “CBD oil” and “CBD tincture” are often used interchangeably, these products are not exactly the same. The main difference between an oil and a tincture is how the therapeutic compounds are extracted from the hemp plant material.

To create CBD oil, manufacturers use a solvent such as carbon dioxide (CO2) or hexane. They then dissolve the resulting extract in a carrier oil, such as MCT oil, from coconuts.

On the other hand, CBD tincture is created by soaking the hemp plant material in alcohol to draw out its beneficial compounds. The alcohol is then strained off once it has been infused with hempy goodness.

How to Choose CBD Oil or Tincture

When it comes to choosing between CBD oil and tincture, the primary consideration is how you wish to use it. We will explore some of the most common methods below.

However, whichever product you choose, you should consider your source carefully. Not all CBD products are high quality, and you need to find a reputable supplier.

Look at where the company sources its hemp, how it is grown, and how the CBD is extracted.

Wherever possible, choose hemp grown in the US or EU. It should preferably be organic and non-GMO. CO2 extraction is considered the industry gold standard and is safer than solvents like hexane, which can leave harmful residues.

The best brands provide independent lab reports for all of their products. These documents prove the items are potent and free from contaminants.

How to Use CBD Oil or Tincture

There are plenty of ways to use CBD oil or tincture. Here are three of the most popular methods.

Under the Tongue

The most common way of using CBD oil or tincture is sublingually, meaning under the tongue. This area is rich in blood vessels and helps the CBD enter the bloodstream more effectively than simply swallowing it.

Both CBD oil and CBD tincture are suited to this consumption method. Hold them under the tongue for up to two minutes before swallowing to maximize their effects.

Mixed into Food or Beverages

You can also mix CBD oil and tincture into food and drink.

CBD oil is more suitable than CBD tincture for mixing into most foods. It works particularly well blended into soups and sauces just before serving. Due to its oily consistency, CBD oil also mixes nicely with milky beverages, such as coffee or dairy-based smoothies.

Meanwhile, CBD tincture is more suitable for mixing into other beverages, like water or juice.

Applied to the Skin

It is possible to use CBD oil topically, rubbing it directly into the skin. It may help to soothe inflammation, aches, and pains. CBD tincture is less suitable for this purpose as the alcohol in it might irritate the skin. You can also buy specially formulated creams and balms for topical use.