The Leaf THE LEAF November-December 2017 | Page 27

9 Things You Never Knew About Cannabis Tinctures
By Rachel Garland – 4 th October 2017
Cannabis tinctures are one
of the best, most underrated
delivery
methods
for
cannabis.
They provide a fast and
efficient dosage of medicine
with minimal effort.
And although tinctures date
back well before the pre-
Prohibition era, they are an
unfamiliar delivery method
for most people.
If you’re interested in
learning more about this
healthier ingestion method,
here are 9 things you need to know about
cannabis tinctures.
#1) Tinctures are an age-old remedy
Did you know tinctures were the primary
form of pain relief before aspirin?
In fact, cannabis tinctures were extremely
popular before cannabis prohibition.
Cannabis infused extracts (tinctures) were
listed in the U.S. Pharmacopeia as a treatment
for several conditions including: tetanus,
gout, tonsillitis, alcoholism, menstrual
cramps, cholera, arthritis, and many others.
Patented cannabis tinctures were even sold
over the counter in the early twentieth
century.
#2) Tinctures provide dosage control
Cannabis tinctures are usually taken by
placing a few drops under the tongue
(sublingually). This method is great for those
who need a rapid dose of medicine.
The infusion is immediately absorbed into the
arterial system, making its way to the brain
and body.
This makes dosing a breeze. Simply use a few
drops and wait for the desired effects to take
place. If more medicine is needed, additional
drops can be added.
However, always start slow and move your
dosage up with time.
#3) Cannabis tinctures come in different
types
A tincture by definition is made with alcohol
as the solvent.
With cannabis however you can also find
tinctures made with MCT oil, glycerine and
even olive oil (these are all technically
elixirs).
While there is some debate in the cannabis
universe about which type of tincture is best,
you can't go wrong with olive oil for a better
shelf life and healthier option.
#4) Tinctures give you different cannabinoid
options
What do you want to use your tincture for
exactly? Are you targeting a specific
condition or ailment?
Maybe you want to use your tincture for
preventative health or for adult-use?
One of the cool things about cannabis
legalisation is that it gives us access to many
different types of tinctures – both
psychoactive and non-psychoactive.