In the whirlwind world of wellness, Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, has made quite the name for itself. With its broad range of potential benefits, it’s no surprise that CBD products are a hot topic and an area of increasing interest. Two of the most popular ways to consume CBD are through oils and tinctures. But what is the difference between these two types of CBD products? In this article, we will compare the two forms to help you make an informed decision about which is best for your wellness journey.
Understanding CBD
Before we dive into the main differences, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what CBD is. CBD is one of many compounds, known as cannabinoids, found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not have psychoactive effects, meaning it does not produce a ‘high.’ The compound is lauded for its potential therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, reducing anxiety, and promoting sleep.
Want to learn more about CBD?
Our article “Understanding CBD and Its Duration in Your System” provides a comprehensive understanding of CBD.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is made by extracting the CBD compound from the cannabis plant and then infusing it into a carrier oil to create a highly concentrated product.
Pros of CBD Oil:
- High Bioavailability: Oils tend to have high bioavailability, meaning your body can absorb and utilize the CBD efficiently.
- Ease of Use: CBD oil can be easily consumed sublingually (under the tongue), added to foods, or applied topically.
- Dosage Control: CBD oil typically comes with a dropper, allowing for precise control over dosage.
Cons of CBD Oil:
- Taste: Some users find the taste of CBD oil to be too strong or unpalatable.
- Cost: Due to the extraction process, CBD oil can be more expensive than tinctures.
What are CBD Tinctures?
CBD tinctures, while similar to oils, are created differently. They are made by soaking CBD-rich hemp flowers in high-proof grain alcohol, then cooking over low heat for multiple hours. Vinegar or glycerin can be used instead of alcohol, but alcohol produces the best tincture.
Pros of CBD Tinctures:
- Long Shelf Life: The alcohol acts as a preservative, giving CBD tinctures a longer shelf life than oils.
- Taste Options: Tinctures often come with added flavors, which can make them more enjoyable to consume than oils.
- Versatility: Just like oils, tinctures can be consumed sublingually or added to food and drinks.
Cons of CBD Tinctures:
- Lower Bioavailability: While still effective, tinctures may have slightly lower bioavailability than oils, meaning your body may absorb less CBD.
- Alcohol Base: Some people may have an aversion to the alcohol used in tinctures.
CBD Oil vs. Tincture: Main Differences
At a glance, CBD oils and tinctures might appear identical. However, the devil is in the details. The primary differences lie in their method of extraction and composition. CBD oils are typically made using CO2 extraction and are combined with a carrier oil. In contrast, tinctures are created using alcohol extraction and are often combined with additional flavorings.
In terms of consumption, both oils and tinctures are usually taken sublingually, meaning they are placed under the tongue and absorbed directly into the bloodstream. This method allows for quick and efficient absorption, although oils may offer slightly higher bioavailability.
CBD Oil at Fern Valley Farms
At Fern Valley Farms, our focus is on simplicity, effectiveness, and affordability. Our mantra is to deliver high-quality CBD products that our customers can trust and easily incorporate into their wellness routines.
One of the main reasons we sell CBD oil instead of tinctures is our dedication to a clean, potent product. Unlike tinctures, which are typically alcohol-based, our CBD oil is a careful blend of just three ingredients:
- CBD Extracted from Our Flowers: We procure the CBD from our own farm-grown hemp flowers. This process ensures that we are able to maintain the integrity of the CBD, resulting in a pure and high-quality product.
- Organic MCT Oil: The CBD extract is then infused into Organic MCT (Medium Chain Triglycerides) oil. Not only does MCT oil serve as a natural carrier oil for the CBD, but it also aids in efficient absorption, maximizing the benefits you receive from every drop of our CBD oil.
- Hemp-Derived Terpenes: To enhance the effectiveness of our CBD oil, we add our own hemp-derived terpenes. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including hemp, and are thought to offer a range of health benefits.
Explore our line of CBD Oil
Ultimately, the decision between CBD oil and a tincture comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Both offer a range of potential benefits and come with their own pros and cons. Whether you prefer the higher bioavailability of oils or the flavorful experience and long shelf life of tinctures, CBD could be a beneficial addition to your wellness routine.
Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, including CBD.
