Main differences between CBD oil and CBD tincture

11. 02. 2024

Thanks to the growing interest in cannabidiol (CBD), the range of products containing it is also growing. However, there is often confusion among the public between the terms "CBD oil" and "tincture". However, these are two different products that are produced by different processes. CBD is one of the many phytochemicals found in the cannabis plant. 

Although the World Health Organization (WHO) and leading scientists have already recognized many potential health benefits with minimal short-term side effects from CBD use, more research is needed to better understand the long-term consequences.

There are a variety of CBD-containing products on the market (from cosmetics to gelatin candies). Particularly popular ones include oils and tinctures. Although the two products are similar in many ways, their compositions and the methods used to make them differ.

In the following, we discuss the differences between CBD oils and CBD tinctures, their specific advantages and benefits, as well as how to choose and use them.

Not drops are like drops: oil vs. tincture

CBD oil and tincture are similar in many ways. Both products contain CBD derived from hemp. Although some people often use the terms "CBD oil" and "CBD tincture" interchangeably, or refer to them both generically as CBD drops, they are distinct product categories.

The main difference between them lies in the way CBD is extracted. For oils, manufacturers use carbon dioxide to extract the cannabidiol from the cannabis plant, while for tinctures, on the other hand, they use alcohol.

Utilizing the effects of heat and pressure, producers use the (supercritical) carbon dioxide extraction method to separate CBD from the plant. This method is generally considered to be the fastest and most efficient method. This method is safe and also environmentally friendly.

In the process of making CBD tincture, cannabis is usually soaked in alcohol and the mixture is slowly heated. This releases the CBD into the alcohol and fills it with cannabidiol. The producer then boils or dilutes the resulting mixture.

Due to the different extraction methods, the result is a different product. CBD oil by name contains CBD dissolved in a carrier oil (hemp, olive, salmon, coconut, etc.), while tinctures are solutions usually based on glycerin or alcohol.

In general, CBD oils also contain a higher concentration of CBD, however tinctures have a longer shelf life. In addition, the method of use also varies. CBD oil can be taken orally (by mouth) or applied to the skin. Using tinctures on the skin is not recommended

Benefits of CBD

CBD shows many potential health benefits and has become a popular aid for many health ailments.

Anti-inflammatory properties: that CBD may have anti-inflammatory effects is scientifically confirmed. Additionally, a 2018 study found similar results for different orally administered forms of the substance.

Chronic Pain Reduction:A 2019 study suggested a link between CBD use and chronic pain relief. In the research, 94% of participants reported improved quality of life. A small 2020 study also showed that CBD may be beneficial in reducing intense pain, sharp pain, and itching sensations.</p

Helps with anxiety:a 2015 study showed that CBD can help relieve anxiety. This is also supported by a 2019 study that additionally looked at use in people struggling with anxiety disorders.

Risks

According to a 2020 study, minimal adverse effects are reported with single use of CBD, while long-term use is associated with mild side effects.

This does not mean, however, that long-term adverse effects are not possible. A A 2018 study states that further research is needed to better evaluate possible long-term side effects.</p

Use of CBD products can result in the following in extreme cases:

• liver damage
• affecting male fertility
• changes in appetite
• sleepiness or dullness
• irritability
• diarrhea

Before taking any products containing CBD, it is advisable that you consult your physician, as research suggests that this substance may interact with certain prescription medications.

Legal CBD? Yes, but not everywhere

The legal status of CBD is partly complicated. Currently, hemp products are allowed in the Czech Republic as long as they have a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of less than 0.3% (in our country, it will be up to 1% from the beginning of 2022).

As already mentioned, laws and regulations vary from country to country, so take the time to study them in detail before leaving the Czech Republic.

Correct dosage and use of CBD products

We strongly recommend that when using CBD products you follow all instructions and do not exceed the recommended dosage on the label. If you are starting out with CBD, you should start with the lowest dose possible. As you see how your body responds to the substance, you can gradually increase the dose.

In particular, CBD oils and tinctures are recommended and safe to use in this way. A popular method is to take the product orally. Given that not everyone is comfortable with the taste of hemp, CBD products are often available in other carrier oils in addition to hemp, and in different flavours. Hemnia offers CBD oils with mint, citron and green tea flavors.

Users can also consume CBD by placing one drop of the product under the tongue and allowing the liquid to sit there for 30-90 seconds before swallowing to allow the active ingredients to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream.

In addition, CBD oils and tinctures can be added to food or drinks. Water-soluble tinctures usually mix better with food and drinks than oils, but it depends on the type and quality of the oil. As you can see for yourself, our Hemnia oils are commonly and happily added to food.

CBD oil can also be applied directly to the skin, which is not advisable with tinctures as such use will not be very effective and may irritate the skin. Before applying CBD oil, you can also do a skin test (dripping it on the skin on your forearm, for example) to see if you have any allergic reactions to the substance.

It's also important to consult a doctor before using CBD oil or tincture. He or she can help ensure that the product is safe for you to use just by verifying that the products will not interact with any medications you are taking.

How to make a good choice

A 2017 study suggested that CBD products available not only in the U.S. market may be inaccurately labeled. Therefore, when purchasing CBD oils or tinctures, it is best for people to look for products that:

• contain no more than 0.3% THC (then 1% in the Czech Republic from the beginning of 2022).
• have proof of testing by an independent accredited laboratory
• have been tested for pesticides, heavy metals, fungi and microbes
• passed efficacy and product safety testing
• come from a company that provides certificates of analysis for all of its products

In addition, you should also consider:

• price
• strength of CBD product
• customer reviews
• retailer and manufacturer reputation

Summary at the end

Interest in CBD products is growing, with oils and tinctures among the most popular. Research suggests that this substance may have several potential health benefits.

Although CBD oil and tincture are similar, producers make them in different ways. The production of CBD oil usually uses a carbon dioxide extraction method, while tinctures use alcohol to extract the substance. In any case, always consult a physician before trying CBD product for the first time.

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