I. Introduction
CBD tincture is a popular way to consume cannabidiol, a component of the cannabis plant known for its therapeutic properties. While it can be purchased in dispensaries or online, making your own CBD tincture at home can be a fun and cost-effective alternative. Plus, when you make it yourself, you know exactly what is in it. In this article, we will walk you through the process of making CBD tincture step-by-step.
II. Step-by-Step Instructions
Before getting started, gather all the necessary supplies. These include:
- 1 ounce of decarboxylated CBD flower or trim
- High-proof alcohol (such as Everclear or 151 proof rum)
- A glass jar with lid
- Cheesecloth or coffee filter
- Storage container(s), preferably tinted glass with a dropper
To make the tincture:
- Place the decarboxylated CBD flower or trim into a glass jar.
- Pour the alcohol over the plant material, making sure it is completely covered.
- Seal the jar and shake it well for 1-2 minutes.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place and shake it once a day for 2-4 weeks.
- After the designated time has passed, strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove any plant material.
- Pour the tincture into tinted glass dropper bottles for storage.
It’s recommended to store the tincture in a cool, dark place and avoid exposing it to light or heat which can degrade the potency over time. A general guideline for dosage is 1-2 drops per 10 pounds of body weight, taken orally or added to food or drink.
III. Pros and Cons
While there are benefits to making your own CBD tincture at home, there are also drawbacks to consider. Here are some pros and cons:
Benefits:
- Cost-effective compared to purchasing pre-made tincture
- Customizable to meet individual needs and flavor preferences
- More control over ingredients and quality of the tincture
Drawbacks:
- Time-consuming process that takes several weeks to complete
- May require some trial and error to perfect the recipe and potency
- Uses high-proof alcohol which can be dangerous if not handled properly
IV. Recipes
There are many recipes for making CBD tincture, each with its own unique twist. Here are a few:
Classic CBD Tincture:
Follow the step-by-step instructions listed in section II.
Cinnamon CBD Tincture:
- 1 ounce of decarboxylated CBD flower or trim
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- High-proof alcohol
Place the CBD flower or trim and cinnamon sticks in a glass jar. Cover with high-proof alcohol and shake well. Store in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks, shaking daily. Strain the tincture and store in tinted glass dropper bottles.
Lemon Ginger CBD Tincture:
- 1 ounce of decarboxylated CBD flower or trim
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Peel of 1 lemon
- High-proof alcohol
Place the CBD flower or trim, ginger, and lemon peel in a glass jar. Add high-proof alcohol to cover and shake well. Store in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks, shaking daily. Strain the tincture and store in tinted glass dropper bottles.
To customize the tincture, try using different herbs or spices such as peppermint, lavender, or turmeric.
V. Safety Considerations
Making CBD tincture at home requires safety precautions to be taken to avoid contamination. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Choose a well-ventilated area to make the tincture and wear gloves and goggles to protect the skin and eyes from alcohol vapors.
- Use high-proof alcohol and avoid using rubbing alcohol or denatured alcohol, as these are not safe for human consumption.
- Label the tincture bottles with the date and potency to ensure fresh and accurate dosing.
- Store the tincture in a cool, dark place and avoid exposing it to light, heat, or air which can degrade the potency over time.
VI. Alternatives to Alcohol
For those who prefer not to use alcohol in their tincture, there are alternative methods to try. Here are a few:
Oil-Based CBD Tincture:
- 1 ounce of decarboxylated CBD flower or trim
- Olive oil, coconut oil, or MCT oil
Place the CBD flower or trim in a glass jar. Cover with oil and stir well. Place the jar in a pot of simmering water and heat for 2-3 hours. Strain the mixture and store the tincture in tinted glass dropper bottles.
Glycerin-Based CBD Tincture:
- 1 ounce of decarboxylated CBD flower or trim
- Vegetable glycerin
Place the CBD flower or trim in a glass jar. Cover with glycerin and shake well. Store in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks and shake daily. Strain the mixture and store the tincture in tinted glass dropper bottles.
VII. Conclusion
Making your own CBD tincture at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these simple steps and safety precautions, you can create a customized tincture that fits your individual needs and tastes. Experiment with different flavors and herbs to create a tincture that works best for you.