Cannabis tinctures and oils are popular for medical cannabis users, but they work differently. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- Tinctures: Alcohol-based, quick absorption (15-30 minutes), lower CBD concentration (10-20%), shorter effects (2-4 hours). Best for fast relief like acute anxiety or pain.
- Oils: Oil-based, slower absorption (30 minutes-2 hours), higher CBD concentration (15-25%), longer effects (6-8 hours). Ideal for chronic conditions and flexible use (oral, topical, or mixed with food).
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Tinctures | Oils |
|---|---|---|
| Base Material | Alcohol/Glycerin | Carrier oils (e.g., MCT) |
| Absorption Time | 15-30 minutes | 30 minutes-2 hours |
| Effect Duration | 2-4 hours | 6-8 hours |
| CBD Concentration | 10-20% | 15-25% |
| Best For | Quick relief | Long-lasting effects |
Choose tinctures for immediate relief or oils for sustained effects. Always check product labels and consult with professionals for proper dosing and safety.
CBD Oil vs CBD Tincture: Are They Different?
Comparing Strength and Effects
Cannabis tinctures and oils differ significantly in potency and how long their effects last. These differences can help you decide which product suits your needs. Below, we break down their cannabinoid content and how quickly they take effect.
THC and CBD Content
Tinctures and oils vary in their cannabinoid levels. For example, THC tinctures usually contain between 100 mg and 500 mg of THC per bottle. On the other hand, CBD tinctures derived from hemp must have less than 0.3% THC to comply with U.S. laws [3].
"It is essential to check the labels on all your cannabis tincture products or consult with one of our cannabis concierges if you are unsure which of our cannabis products are suitable for you." – Farnsworth Fine Cannabis Company [3]
Tinctures often display precise cannabinoid amounts on their labels, while oils typically provide the total cannabinoid content per serving. Always read labels carefully to understand what you're using.
Time to Feel Effects
How you consume the product influences how quickly it works:
- Tinctures (Sublingual): Effects can start within 5–10 minutes and peak around 30–45 minutes [4]. This makes them a good choice for fast symptom relief.
- Oils (Oral): Effects take longer to kick in, usually between 30 minutes and 2 hours [5]. These are better suited for planned treatments.
How Long Effects Last
The duration of effects also depends on the type of product:
- Tinctures: Effects last around 2–4 hours, peaking between 1–2 hours [5].
- Oils: Effects can last much longer, typically 6–8 hours, with a peak 2–4 hours after the onset [5].
Tinctures are ideal for quick, short-term relief, while oils provide longer-lasting effects, making them better for extended symptom management.
Using Tinctures vs Oils
Under-Tongue vs Swallowing
How you consume tinctures or oils makes a big difference in how quickly they take effect. For sublingual use, place a few drops under your tongue and hold them there for 30–90 seconds before swallowing [1]. This method allows cannabinoids to skip the digestive system and enter your bloodstream directly, leading to quicker effects. On the other hand, swallowing tinctures or oils means they go through your digestive system, which delays the onset. Whichever method you choose, measuring the correct dose is key to getting the desired results.
Measuring Doses
Getting the dose right is essential for both tinctures and oils. Most products include a dropper with markings to help you measure accurately. Here's a simple dosing guide for a 1200 mg THC tincture:
| Desired Dose | Volume to Use | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| 10 mg THC | 0.25 ml | Beginners |
| 20 mg THC | 0.50 ml | Regular users |
| 30 mg THC | 0.75 ml | Experienced users |
| 40 mg THC | 1.00 ml | Heavy users |
"Trying other methods would probably be the way to go, especially with THC. It's always a 'less is more' situation to try and find what works for you rather than jumping right in. For a lot of first-time cannabis patients, I would recommend a 1:1 product, where there will be equal ratios of THC and CBD." – Kasabuski, Doctor of Pharmacy [7]
Travel and Storage
In addition to dosing, portability and proper storage are essential for keeping your tinctures or oils effective. Small, pill-like bottles make tinctures easy to carry and preserve their quality better than larger containers [6]. While refrigeration isn’t necessary, it’s important to store them correctly to avoid losing potency. Keep these tips in mind:
- Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure even distribution.
- Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
- Keep the dropper clean to avoid contamination.
- Regularly check the expiration date.
Following these simple steps helps maintain the quality of your product, whether you're at home or exploring Bangkok's cannabis scene.
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Medical Uses and Benefits
Fast Relief with Tinctures
Cannabis tinctures offer quick relief by absorbing directly into the bloodstream when placed under the tongue. This makes them ideal for managing acute anxiety or sudden pain. Dr. Cameron Jones from House of Pot in Silom often suggests tinctures to tourists needing fast symptom relief while navigating Bangkok. Next, let’s look at how oils provide a more gradual effect.
Sustained Relief with Oils
Cannabis oils work differently, offering long-lasting relief through a slow release of cannabinoids. This makes them a better choice for managing chronic conditions. In fact, a 2019 study found that CBD oil use improved quality of life by 94% for participants [1].
Pain and Anxiety Management
Tinctures and oils have distinct benefits, especially when it comes to managing pain and anxiety. Research highlights CBD’s anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and anxiety-reducing properties [2]. A 2015 review also pointed to its ability to lower anxiety-related behaviors [1]. Here’s how to use them effectively:
- Tinctures: Best for immediate relief from acute anxiety or pain.
- Oils: Ideal for long-term symptom management.
- Combination: Useful for sudden symptoms while maintaining daily relief.
Consistency and proper dosing are key to seeing results. At House of Pot, medical consultants work closely with individuals to provide tailored recommendations based on their symptoms and lifestyle, ensuring personalized care for both tourists and locals.
Finding Quality Products in Bangkok
Product Quality Checklist
When choosing cannabis products in Bangkok, focus on quality and safety. Stick to dispensaries that provide:
- Products compliant with local licensing and regulations
- Detailed product information, including THC/CBD content and batch numbers
- Quality control practices, along with personalized consultations and educational resources
"We need regulation. Spelling out what you can and cannot do. It is causing widespread confusion over what consumers can legally purchase", says Kitty Chopaka, founder of Chopaka [10].
Silom Plaza Dispensaries
House of Pot is a well-known medical cannabis dispensary in Silom, led by Dr. Cameron Jones. Their team offers personalized consultations and guidance on therapeutic uses. Another option, Siam Green Cannabis Co., is located at 18 Silom Road near Sala Daeng BTS station. They’re open daily from 11:00 AM to 3:00 AM and can be contacted at 096-403-4198 [8].
| Dispensary Feature | House of Pot | Siam Green Cannabis Co. |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Silom District | 18 Silom Road |
| Specialization | Medical consultations | Retail cannabis products |
| Product Range | Tinctures, oils, medical products | Flowers, edibles, accessories |
Both dispensaries uphold the safety and quality standards discussed below.
Spotting Safe Products
"Most food supplements and health beverages sold in markets only use cannabis as a synthetic flavor to produce a similar aroma and flavor. So these food supplement products will not have the medical treatment properties as claimed" [9].
To ensure safety:
- Buy only from dispensaries with verified licenses and clear product sourcing [10].
- Note that sales are restricted to individuals aged 20 and above [11].
- Processed products should not exceed 0.2% THC content [10].
- Public cannabis smoking is strictly prohibited [11].
Avoid online sellers offering high-THC products, as these often breach local laws. For medical purposes, rely on established dispensaries with proper documentation and knowledgeable staff to guide your choices.
Making Your Choice
Based on the differences outlined earlier, choose tinctures if you need relief within 15–30 minutes, or opt for oils if you're looking for higher CBD concentration and more flexible usage options.
Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Factor | Tinctures | Oils |
|---|---|---|
| Base Solution | Alcohol or glycerin | Carrier oil (e.g., coconut or hemp seed) |
| Onset Time | 15–30 minutes | Up to 1 hour |
| Best For | Quick relief, precise dosing | Long-lasting effects, multiple uses |
| Application | Sublingual only | Oral, topical, or mixed with food |
For anxiety, studies indicate up to 75% of users feel more relaxed after using THC tinctures [12]. If you need steady relief throughout the day, CBD oils are often preferred due to their higher concentration and prolonged effects [2].
Consider your sensitivities when choosing. For example, avoid tinctures if you're sensitive to alcohol or oils if you're allergic to coconut. Flavored oils are a great option for those who dislike the strong herbal taste of some products.
If you’re in Bangkok, visit House of Pot's team in Silom for personalized consultations to find the right product for your needs. When shopping at dispensaries, always ask for recent certificates of analysis (COA) and detailed product details to ensure safety and quality that meet local regulations.
Use this guide to find the ideal product for your wellness goals while exploring Bangkok’s trusted dispensaries.