CBD Tincture vs. Oil: What’s the Difference?
If you’re in the market for CBD, you might come across CBD tinctures when researching CBD oil. Is there a difference? Learn about the differences between CBD tinctures and CBD oil. While both may support your overall well-being, many of their qualities may differ depending on what products you’re exploring. Many companies use the terms “oil” and “tincture” interchangeably, which is understandable considering how similar these two products are.
You’ll likely find both CBD oils and tinctures in the same type of packaging. You might have seen the little tinted glass bottles that feature a dropper in the cap. So what’s the difference between these two similar products? Let’s find out.
What is CBD?
If you’re here reading this, you likely know what CBD is. The formal name for CBD is Cannabidiol, and it can be derived from several varieties of the cannabis plant. Still, the majority of what you find in stores is derived from industrial hemp because it contains high amounts of CBD and complies with the federal regulation that hemp must contain 0.3% delta-9 THC or less, by dry weight.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring phytocannabinoid found in the hemp plant. As one of the most studied compounds found in hemp, it has quickly gained popularity as an approach to wellness. Emerging research supports the idea that CBD interacts with a biological network of cannabinoid receptors called the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to help the body maintain homeostasis (balance). To understand this concept a little more, let us explain.
The Greek root of “endo” means “within.” Almost every living organism with a spine also has receptors throughout its body that interact with cannabinoids naturally produced within the organism (or animal) itself. That means that, right now, your body is producing its very own cannabinoids. Phytocannabinoids, “phyto” meaning “plant,” are plant-derived cannabinoids that also interact with this system.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is similar to a CBD tincture in many ways and can be used as an umbrella term for liquid CBD products. CBD oil is sometimes created with CBD that has been wholly separated from all other cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes and then infused into an oil. Oftentimes, the compounds that were initially removed are then added back into the oil..
Here at HempFusion, we never separate CBD in this way. We want to keep our CBD products as close to their original state as possible, which is why the majority of our CBD hemp extracts – is broad-spectrum, meaning that it contains a range of naturally occurring compounds like terpenes and other cannabinoids, but has non-detectable levels of THC. Our products labeled broad-spectrum are non-detectable for THC when tested to below 0.01%. (We wrote on the differences between broad-spectrum CBD, full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate if you’re interested in learning more on that front.)
CBD oil can be used in a tincture form, but it differs from a traditional tincture because it can also be used in topical CBD products. CBD oil in the tincture form is usually infused with other ingredients like MCT or other carrier oils that make CBD delivery easier. CBD oil in topical form is usually combined with different “carriers” like shea butter, jojoba oil, and other skin-nourishing ingredients.
What is a CBD Tincture?
A CBD tincture is a more specific type of CBD product. While it could be classified under CBD oil’s umbrella, it is a particular product with a specific use. CBD tinctures usually come in glass bottles with droppers in the caps to help measure the product. Traditionally, tinctures are typically alcohol-based, but that’s not always the case. Tinctures can also contain MCT or other oil bases for a more palatable delivery than alcohol.
CBD oils and CBD tinctures are typically taken the same way, however, you can use some CBD oils topically, and CBD tinctures can be added to your favorite drink, like your morning coffee or tea, or even used for cooking.
You can find HempFusion’s CBD Oil Tinctures here. Our tinctures use a solvent-free CO2 extraction method that yields more of the cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds found in the hemp plant.
What To Look For When Buying CBD Products
When it comes to purchasing CBD oil or a CBD tincture, it’s essential to know the brand you’re buying from because not all CBD products are created equally. If it’s not labeled, it could be challenging to know what kind of CBD you’re consuming. CBD can be derived from plants besides hemp. It could also be created in a laboratory usingCBD isolate.. That’s why 3rd party testing and transparency are essential for CBD brands, and doing your due diligence is vital for you as the consumer.
When looking for high-quality CBD tinctures and oils, some considerations are:
The cannabinoid profile. Brands that provide a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) share exactly which cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds are in the product. Testing also ensures the CBD product is free from heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, and other potential contaminants.
The amount of CBD per serving. When you know how much CBD is in each serving, you’ll know that the product was made with care and attention to serving size and was tested for consistency and compliance.
Transparency of the brand. You can learn a lot about a brand if they’re transparent. When looking for a high-quality CBD, you need to find a reputable brand that backs up its products with transparency and easily accessible third-party test results.
There isn’t a significant difference between CBD tinctures and CBD oil. The important thing to remember when shopping for one or the other is that you’re purchasing from a reputable brand you can trust!