The 420 Gardener
For cannabis growers, producing healthy, resinous buds is just the beginning of the journey. Once you’ve harvested your crop, it’s time to explore how to process your cannabis into various forms for consumption. One of the most popular and versatile methods is creating cannabis tinctures and extracts. These concentrated forms allow for potent, discreet, and customizable consumption of cannabinoids such as THC and CBD.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the history, science, and techniques for making your own tinctures and extracts at home. With proven methods and detailed instructions, this article will ensure you can create tinctures that meet your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a THC-heavy tincture for pain relief or a CBD-rich extract for anxiety, this guide has got you covered.
The History of Cannabis Tinctures
Cannabis tinctures have a long history of medicinal use, dating back centuries. Before the prohibition of cannabis in the early 20th century, tinctures were a common medicinal product found in pharmacies across the globe. Doctors frequently prescribed them for a variety of ailments, from pain relief to insomnia. Tinctures were popular because they offered a smoke-free, easy-to-dose form of cannabis that patients could take at home or on the go.
With the recent wave of cannabis legalization, tinctures are once again gaining popularity, especially for those looking for a healthier alternative to smoking or vaping. Whether used for recreational or medical purposes, tinctures offer precise dosing, longer shelf life, and a smoke-free experience.
What is a Cannabis Tincture?
A tincture is a liquid extract of cannabis made by soaking plant material—typically dried flowers—in a high-proof alcohol like ethanol. The alcohol acts as a solvent, drawing out the cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant matter. The result is a potent liquid that can be ingested sublingually (under the tongue), added to food or beverages, or used topically.
Why Make Your Own Tinctures?
- Customization: By making your own tincture, you can control the strain, potency, and method of extraction, tailoring it to your specific needs. Whether you’re focusing on THC, CBD, or a combination, DIY tinctures allow for precision.
- Discreet Consumption: Tinctures are one of the most discreet ways to consume cannabis. They don’t produce any odor, smoke, or vapor, making them ideal for public use or for individuals who require privacy.
- Long Shelf Life: Unlike other forms of cannabis, tinctures last for a long time if stored properly. Keep your tinctures in one of our UV Cure Jars to maintain potency over months.
How to Make Cannabis Tinctures at Home
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your own cannabis tincture:
Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need
- Cannabis flowers: Choose a strain with your preferred cannabinoid profile (high THC, high CBD, etc.). Make sure your cannabis is properly cured for the best results. Check out our Intermediate Cure Kit to ensure optimal curing.
- High-proof alcohol: Ethanol or grain alcohol (at least 190 proof) is ideal for tincture making.
- Wide Mouth Mason Jars: You’ll need airtight jars to soak your cannabis in alcohol. Our Starter Kit includes lids that will ensure an airtight seal during the process.
- Cheesecloth or a coffee filter: For straining the plant material after extraction.
- Dropper bottles: For easy dosing and storage.
Step 1: Decarboxylation
Decarboxylation is the process of heating cannabis to activate its cannabinoids, specifically converting THCA into THC. Without this step, your tincture will not have psychoactive effects. To decarboxylate, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C).
- Break up your cannabis buds into small pieces and spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even heating.
Once complete, your cannabis is ready for extraction.
Step 2: Soaking the Cannabis in Alcohol
After decarboxylation, place your cannabis into a wide mouth jar and cover it with high-proof alcohol. Ensure the alcohol fully covers the plant material. Seal the jar with an airtight lid and store it in a dark, cool place, shaking the jar every day for at least two weeks.
Step 3: Strain the Mixture
After two weeks (or longer for a stronger tincture), strain the plant material using a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean container. Squeeze the plant material to extract as much liquid as possible.
Step 4: Bottle and Store
Transfer your finished tincture into small dropper bottles for easy dosing. Store the tinctures in a cool, dark place—our UV Cure Jars are ideal for preserving potency.
How to Use Cannabis Tinctures
There are several ways to consume tinctures, depending on your preferences:
- Sublingual Use: Place a few drops under your tongue and hold them for 30-60 seconds before swallowing. This allows the cannabinoids to be absorbed quickly into your bloodstream.
- Add to Food or Drinks: Mix your tincture into coffee, tea, smoothies, or meals for a slower onset but longer-lasting effects.
- Topical Application: For localized relief of pain or inflammation, apply tinctures directly to the skin.
Final Thoughts
Making your own cannabis tinctures is a rewarding process that allows you to control every aspect of your cannabis consumption. From choosing the strain to determining the potency, tinctures offer flexibility, potency, and discretion. By following this guide, you can easily create potent and flavorful tinctures from your homegrown cannabis. Ensure your final product stays fresh by storing it in one of our airtight jars.