CBD Tincture vs. Oil: The Differences

CBD products are quickly rising in popularity as the cultivation and harvesting of hemp has been completely legalized as of 2018’s farm bill, and the anxiety, stress, and pain-relieving properties of CBD have become better known to the general public. However, while their popularity rises, not many people have a full understanding of these products. Let’s explore the differences between CBD tincture versus oil as they are often confused for being the same the most.

Defining CBD Oil

CBD oil is the resulting product of extracting the seeds, flowers, and stalks of hemp plants. On its own, CBD oil is one of the most potent forms of CBD, and its byproducts typically contain other cannabinoids, fatty acids, protein, essential vitamins, and nutrients. These byproducts aren’t anything to fear—in fact, these other cannabinoids work together to create the “entourage effect” which makes the benefits of CBD even more potent.

Because CBD oil simply tastes bitter, it’s common for users to infuse it into food and drink for a more enjoyable experience while still reaping the benefits.

Defining CBD Tinctures

While also derived from hemp plants, the major difference between CBD tincture versus oil is that a ‘tincture’ defines any form of medication that is kept in an alcohol arrangement. In a tincture, the CBD is suspended within 60-70% distilled alcohol and combined with glycerin or cinnamon oil. CBD tinctures are much less potent than CBD oil, but have a longer shelf life and often come in a variety of flavors for a more pleasant consumer experience.

As tinctures are a bit more engineered in what components they contain, CBD tinctures typically come in two forms. A CBD full spectrum tincture keeps many of the naturally occurring cannabinoids including the trace amounts of THC that is extracted from the hemp plant, while CBD broad spectrum tinctures endeavor to remove all traces of THC.

Which To Choose

Whichever product you choose, you can’t really go wrong. CBD tinctures allow you to have a more tailored experience that will ensure you only get the aspects you want—including the addition of greater amounts of THC should you desire the “high” effect of consuming cannabis. CBD oil, however, gives you a more potent product, but typically needs to be used as an additive simply because it’s so bitter in taste, but requires smaller doses thanks to that potency.

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