What is a Tincture & How do You Use it?

A tincture is a basic form of cannabis extract, where a cannabis-infused liquid is ingested under the tongue.

Located off of 495 in Lowell, MA, Smyth Cannabis Co. is the most popular dispensary for tinctures near Andover, Ayer, Billerica, Burlington, Chelmsford, Nashua, Dracut, Groton, Haverhill, Lawrence, Littleton, Lowell, North Andover, North Reading, Reading, Stoneham, Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Wakefield, Westford, Wilmington, Woburn and the surrounding towns.

How Are They Made?

Technically, the term “tincture” implies that the solution is alcohol-based. However, it is more commonly used as an umbrella term. Tinctures can have a base made up of either alcohol, glycerin or oil, which is then steeped with cannabis for several days. After the plant matter is removed and strained, you are left with an edible liquid rich in terpenes and cannabinoids.

And while tinctures are intended to be consumed orally instead of through smoking or vaporization, they are not considered to be a food item by most major markets. This allows them to frequently exceed potency limits that most states enforce on edibles. Because they are absorbed right into the bloodstream from under the tongue, they do not pass through the liver. So the effects of a tincture will come on quicker but less strong than with other methods.

How to Use a Tincture

Many dispensaries will group their tinctures into the same category as their edibles. This is due to the general method of consumption, even though there is a slight difference, as stated above. The tincture will most likely come in a small bottle with a dropper.

1. Shake The Bottle — Be sure to give your tincture a good shake before opening to fix any separation that may have occurred.
2. Start With One Drop — Start slow, especially if this is your first time using a tincture. We recommend starting with one single drop under your tongue.
3. Let it Sit for 45 Seconds & Swallow — Let the drop sit undisturbed under your tongue for about 30 – 45 seconds before swallowing. Swallowing the droplet before giving it a chance to be absorbed under the tongue will compromise its effectiveness.
4. Repeat if Necessary — You should start to feel the effects of the tincture after about 15 – 30 minutes. Remember that due to the consumption method, the effects of a tincture will come on quicker but less strong than you may be used to.

What Are the Benefits?

• Dose Control — Because droplets are so small, consumers are able to control their dosing to a very precise amount.
• Minimum Effective Dose (MED) — Low and slow dosing gives consumers a better grasp on their minimum effective dose, or smallest amount required to control symptoms and produce they desired effects. This can help keep your tolerance low and save you money by allowing you to buy from lower-potency products without reduced efficiency.
• Low Calorie — Tinctures are typically lower in calories than many other edible options, including sodas, chocolates, gummies and baked goods.
• Discreet Use — A drop under the tongue is much more subtle in both process of use and impact on your body than eating edibles or smoking, vaping, etc.
• Long Shelf Life — A single tincture can last up to several years as long as it is properly stored.

Visit Smyth Cannabis Co. For Tinctures & More

Smyth Cannabis Co. Recreational Dispensary offers high quality cannabis flower, pre-rolls, edibles, concentrates, tinctures and more. Our friendly and knowledgeable budtenders will help you pick a tincture best suited for both your needs and your budget.

Visit us today at our Lowell, MA dispensary to learn more about our lab tested cannabis products. You can also check out our menu for a list of in-stock options.