If you are looking for a cannabidiol (CBD) product, you might come across terms such as CBD oil and CBD tinctures. Well, these terms are often used interchangeably to mean the same thing, even though there is a noticeable difference between them.
What’s even more confusing is that they appear to look the same and maybe packaged in just the same way. This is because they are both found in small glass bottles with droppers.
But which is the better product, CBD tincture vs. oil? This article offers a comprehensive overview of these products, highlighting some of the differences between them.
Table of Contents
What are CBD Tinctures?
CBD tincture is an alcohol-based extract that contains cannabinoids and other plant compounds like terpenes and amino acids. Alcohol is used as a solvent to dissolve plant compounds, and it also protects them against oxidation.
Due to their raw bitter taste, tinctures are often mixed with vegetable glycerin, flavoring, or sweeteners. Some companies may also add supplements such as melatonin, herbal extracts, and vitamins. Due to the extraction method, this product may also contain unwanted plant compounds such as chlorophyll and waxes.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is the most popular form of CBD product and is readily available in the market. It often features a blend of CBD extract and a carrier oil such as hemp seed oil or MCT coconut oil.
Manufacturers sometimes add other plant materials, such as flavonoids and terpenes, to make full-spectrum oils. You can find it in the form of isolate, broad-spectrum, and full-spectrum CBD oil which has trace THC content.
CBD Tincture vs. CBD Oil
While CBD tinctures and CBD oils have cannabidiol as their main ingredient, these two products are slightly different. Their ingredients, manufacturing process, and level of effectiveness are not the same, and this usually results in different effects and longevity of the effects in the human body.
Ingredients
CBD tinctures contain a real full spectrum of dissolved cannabinoids, amino acids, terpenes, and other valuable plant extracts. CBD oils generally contain just two ingredients i.e., the CBD compound and the carrier oil.
Manufacturing process
The main difference in the manufacturing process is the method of extracting CBD. Manufacturers tend to use tinctures when making CBD tinctures, while oil is usually made with carbon dioxide. It should be noted that the CO2 method is considered the most efficient, quickest, and safest since it only utilizes heat and pressure.
The use of alcohol solvent requires filtration of the final products. Its effectiveness in protecting cannabinoids and other plant compounds from oxidation. It’s ideal for producing full spectrum extract.
Effectiveness
Comparing the level of effectiveness of CBD tincture vs. oil, both can be termed to be different. What makes them distinct is the suspension liquid, i.e., the medium that’s used to dilute the hemp plant extract.
Furthermore, the onset and longevity of the effects matter due to the different modes of intake. Tinctures have a faster absorption rate since they are usually used sublingually and have a high bioavailability.
On the other hand, oral intake of CBD oil means that it can take an hour or two for you to feel the effects. this is because the compound has to pass through the digestive tract.
How to Find the Best Quality Oils and Tinctures
To find safe, effective, and high-quality CBD oils and tinctures that offer value for money, some of the important factors that you should consider include:
Reputable CBD brand
When considering CBD products, choosing a reputable and reliable manufacturer is important to ensure you receive a high-quality and safe product.
Make sure the CBD brand uses safe facilities and good manufacturing practices to produce pure and high-quality CBD products that are free of harmful chemicals or additives. You can consider choosing FAB CBD as it offers a versatile collection of CBD tinctures in a range of strengths and flavors, which can meet your different needs and preferences.
Ingredients
CBD products made with safe and premium ingredients will clearly highlight the information on the product label. Besides that, consider CBD from organic sources that are free of heavy metals, pesticides, and molds.
Third-party Lab Test
Consider CBD products from brands that subject all their product batches to independent 3rd party lab tests and issue the latest certificate of analysis (COA). The best laboratories are those that are compliant with ISO 17025.
Cons of CBD Tinctures vs. CBD Oil
Some of the cons of using CBD tinctures include:
- Bitter flavor
- It can’t be used as a topical product
- It can cause an unpleasant alcohol sensation
The possible downsides of using CBD oil include:
- Stronger raw hemp flavor
- Higher price compared to other forms of CBD
FAQs
Are Tinctures More Potent Than Oils?
Generally, CBD oils tend to contain higher cannabidiol potency, while tinctures tend to have a longer shelf life. In addition to that, it’s possible for users to take CBD oil orally and apply it topically; however, it’s not advisable to apply tinctures on the skin.
How to Use CBD Tinctures VS CBD Oil?
CBD tinctures and oils can be taken sublingually by placing the oil drops under the tongue. The cannabidiol will find its way into the bloodstream by passing through the mucous membranes.
It should be noted that you can still drop CBD oil into your mouth and swallow, but there are instances where you can apply it topically as well. Alternatively, you can add oils and tinctures to your favorite foods and drinks if you want to ingest the compound orally. Tinctures generally have faster and more efficient absorption.
Final Thought
So, between CBD oil and tinctures, which one is the better option for you? CBD tinctures contain alcohol-based extracts with cannabinoid extract to enhance their bioavailability. On the other hand, CBD oil generally consists of a CBD compound and carrier oil. The best product depends on your personal preferences and the effects you desire to experience.
So, when you are shopping make a wise selection. If you are taking supplements or prescription medications, consult your doctor first.
