Cannabidiol is referred to in short as CBD. It is a phytocannabinoid. It was discovered in around 1940. It is a chemical obtained from the cannabis Sativa plant. CBD is used in the healthcare sector to address anxiety, insomnia, and even chronic pain. It is consumed in two major forms – as CBD oil or as CBD tinctures.
CBD Oil vs CBD Tincture
The main difference between CBD oil and CBD tincture is that CBD oil is prepared by extraction of cannabidiol from the cannabis plant and mixing it with inert carrier oils while CBD tincture is prepared by suspending cannabidiol in 60-70% distilled alcohol and adding other additives.
CBD oil has a smaller shelf life but is highly potent due to the inculcation of fewer ingredients. CBD oils help reduce anxiety levels and calm the body. Patients suffering from nightmares, depression has benefitted from the use of CBD oil. It also has side effects which should be consumed in the prescribed dosage.
While CBD tinctures have longer shelf life due to the addition of alcohol. It also has several additives like flavors, sweeteners, and preservatives. It is less potent than oils. It can be consumed as well as applied topically. It provides relief from pain, acne and even helps in withdrawal from drug addiction.
Comparison Table Between CBD Oil and CBD Tincture
| Parameters of Comparison | CBD Oil | CBD Tincture |
| Extraction | Through Cannabidiol found in the cannabis plant | Through Cannabidiol found in the cannabis plant |
| Consumption process | It can be consumed only sublingually | It can be consumed orally as well as applied topically |
| Side effects | Fatigue, diarrhea, and loss of appetite | Nausea, vomiting, and dizziness |
| Preparation method | A blend of Cannabidiol and inert carrier oil | A blend of Cannabidiol, 60-70% alcohol, additives, and preservatives |
| Application | Anxiety, depression, epilepsy, and high blood pressure | Muscle pains, acne, and insomnia |
What is CBD Oil?
CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is extracted naturally from the Cannabis indica (Cannabis sativa) species. It has several health benefits like the treatment of pain and reducing anxiety. It releases serotonin hormone which is called the “feel-good” hormone. CBD oil contains inert carrier oil along with the base CBD. Some inert carrier oils widely used are coconut oil and hemp seed oil.
The major health problems that CBD oil can cure are anorexia, chronic pain, acne, anxiety, withdrawal from drug addiction, glaucoma, depression, epilepsy like Dravet syndrome and Lennox Gastaut syndrome, insomnia, muscle spasms, and even high blood pressure.
CBD oil can also trigger several side effects like diarrhea, dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, drowsiness, vomiting, and even liver inflammation. CBD oils can interact with several drugs like anticonvulsants, antifungal, anti-arrhythmia, antidepressants, antipsychotic drugs, and other sedatives and painkillers. It is always advisable to use CBD oil under a doctor’s guidance.
CBD oil is delivered sublingually that is under the tongue. It is often advised to hold the oil under the tongue for 20 to 60 seconds before swallowing. The dose can range from 5 to 25 mg depending upon the need and prescription dosage. There is a conduction of several clinical trials to prove the safety and effectiveness of CBD oil.
What is CBD Tincture?
CBD tincture stands for Cannabidiol tincture. It is obtained from the cannabis plant. CBD tincture is made from high strains of CBD hemp and 70% -80% alcohol. They have a longer shelf life as compared to oils and solutions. Tinctures are best for tropical applications. Consumers who are not alcohol-sensitive can easily use CBD tinctures.
CBD tincture best works as a local anti-inflammatory. The finished product in the tincture form is obtained uses high-proof alcohol to act as a solvent for the natural compound of the cannabis plant. The alcohol addiction imparts a bitter taste and masks that several additives like sweeteners, vegetable glycerin, and flavoring agents are used.
CBD tinctures also contain tetrahydrocannabinol (TCH). Some CBD tinctures even have added vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, and even supplements like melatonin to improve the effectiveness of the tincture. Due to TCH, flavonoids, and terpenes, CBD tinctures produce an entourage effect.
CBD tinctures with TCH have proven benefits on patients with refractory epilepsy. Tinctures are available in various flavors like Peppermint, Lemon or lime, cinnamon, chocolate, mint, skittles, and other fun flavors. Tinctures help with anxiety and relieve pain. It brings a subtle calmness and relaxation to the body.
Main Differences Between CBD Oil and CBD Tincture
- CBD oil is prepared by cannabidiol and carrier oils while CBD tincture is prepared by soaking cannabidiol in 60-70% alcohol and with other additives to mask the bitterness of the alcohol.
- CBD oil can be delivered sublingually while CBD tincture can only be applied topically or consumed orally.
- CBD oil is best for people sensitive to alcohol while CBD tincture is best for people who want a topical application or have stomach sensitivities to oils.
- CBD oil has fewer ingredients during preparation and hence is potent and effective while CBD tincture is prepared by several ingredients and is less potent.
- CBD oil has no added flavors while CBD tincture is available in a variety of flavors.
Conclusion
Both the Cannabidiol products have a similar effect and benefit on health. Only the method of preparation and the ingredient list is different for both the products. CBD is a potent substance and also has severe side effects. It should never be consumed upon self-prescription. Always follow the doctor’s guidance before consumption or application.
Numerous companies and brands in the market manufacture CBD oils and tinctures. It is essential to check whether the brand has certifications, uses ingredients in proper quantities passes the test for pesticides, molds, and metals under the COA (Certificate Of Analysis), and has received authorization from Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Apart from the formulation as oils and tinctures, CBD is also available in the form of gummies, capsules, ointments, sprays, and pills. All the products provide the same benefits but in different concentration amounts. The doctor prescribes the products after evaluating numerous factors and parameters.
