There is so much excitement about the health benefits of CBD and with good reason. New research indicates that the compound can be used to treat a wide range of symptoms and conditions.

Many people are now wondering if they should add a CBD tincture to their health regimen. What exactly are tinctures and how do they differ from other methods of taking CBD?

Facts about CBD

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of a group of chemicals called cannabinoids. This compound is naturally derived from two plants: hemp and Cannabis sativa (marijuana). CBD can also be synthesized in a laboratory, thought this is less common.

Unlike the related compound THC, CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects commonly associated with a marijuana "high." However, CBD is a potent chemical that research shows may have many beneficial effects on the mind and body.

What is it?

There are several ways that a cannabis-based product like CBD can be consumed. It can be smoked, eaten, and even massaged into the skin.

Traditionally, tinctures have two main ingredients: ethanol and an extract. Ethanol is the chemical name of ethyl alcohol, the same alcohol that you might consume in beer, wine, or spirits. An extract is made by soaking the desired material in a solvent like water or ethanol. Voila! 

Extracts are typically highly concentrated and not appropriate for direct consumption. Adding more ethanol dilutes the extract to an acceptable concentration. CBD tinctures are made by soaking cannabis in a solvent like grain alcohol then properly diluting the extract.

How to consume it

CBD tinctures are still highly concentrated, and a dose is measured in drops. A few drops can be added to almost any food or beverage. Popular vehicles include:

• Coffee
• Tea
• Soup
• Baked goods

Some prefer to take CBD tinctures directly. Some research shows that sublingual consumption may allow the body to absorb the compound more readily. "Sublingual" simply means under the tongue.

Why take one?

The research on the efficacy of CBD to treat various symptoms is still in its infancy. So far, researchers have found significant evidence that CBD can drastically reduce the symptoms of several seizure disorders. Promising studies have also shown that CBD can diminish the severity of chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, even acne.

If you suffer from any of these symptoms, you may benefit from taking CBD tinctures. CBD is considered safe, but it can cause side effects such as:

• Nausea
• Irritability
• Dry mouth
• Lightheadedness

In rare instances, CBD can also interact with medications. Check with your doctor if you are concerned about having an adverse reaction.

Where to start

Okay, so you've decided to begin taking CBD. A quick search will turn up many, many different options. How do you know where to start?

The obvious choice is to begin with a low dosage. Most brands of CBD tinctures come in various strengths. If you find that a low concentration is having little or no effect, try a more concentrated formulation.

Many manufacturers of CBD tinctures also offer ointments, gels, and other products intended for topical use. The best thing to do is to try a few different ones until you find the product that works best for you.

The Last Word

CBD tinctures are created by mixing an extract of cannabis or hemp with ethyl alcohol. Consuming the proper dose may help ease chronic pain, anxiety, and some other conditions. CBD tinctures are available in a variety of concentrations and can be consumed in food, or directly under the tongue.

Enjoy exploring the many lines of these exciting new products.