Cannabis Tincture Strength: Alcohol-Based Extraction Guide

Cannabis tinctures are a popular way to consume THC and CBD products. They are made by extracting herbs into alcohol, with the alcohol acting as a solvent that cuts through the lipids and plant matter, allowing the cannabinoids and terpenes to dissolve into it. The strength of a cannabis tincture is important to know for proper dosing, and it can be determined through simple math. The key factors to consider are the quantities of cannabis and alcohol used, as well as the strength of the cannabis. The ratio of cannabis to alcohol and the percentage of alcohol used will impact the final strength of the tincture. Additionally, the purity and potency of the starting cannabis material will also play a role in determining the tincture's potency.

How to determine cannabis tincture strength made with alcohol

The importance of knowing the strength of your tincture

Cannabis tinctures are a popular way to consume THC and CBD products. They are considered one of the healthiest ways to consume cannabis, as they don't involve smoking or vaping. Tinctures are also portable, discreet, and allow users to control their dosage. For these reasons, it is important to know the strength of your tincture.

Firstly, the strength of the tincture determines the dosage. If you are making your own tincture, you can calculate the approximate strength by knowing the quantities of cannabis and alcohol used, as well as the strength of the cannabis. This will help you determine the total amount of THC in your tincture, which is important for proper dosing. For example, if you are using a high-THC strain like San Fernando Valley OG, you can expect a higher THC content in your tincture.

Secondly, knowing the strength of your tincture ensures a consistent dosing experience. Orally delivered cannabis can make it challenging to achieve the desired dose level consistently. Tinctures address this issue by providing a precise way to measure and administer cannabinoids. By knowing the strength of your tincture, you can adjust your dosage accordingly, whether you are taking it for sleep or daytime wellness.

Thirdly, understanding the strength of your tincture helps manage the effects of cannabis. Tinctures made with high-THC strains or higher concentrations of THC can produce more potent effects. Knowing the strength allows users to start with a low dose and adjust as needed, especially if they have a low tolerance or are new to cannabis. This helps prevent overconsumption and negative experiences associated with taking too much cannabis.

Lastly, knowing the strength of your tincture can help determine its potency and effectiveness. The strength of a tincture is influenced by the purity and potency of the starting material. A tincture made with high-quality, high-cannabinoid content material like flowers or kief will be more potent. By understanding the strength, users can make informed decisions about the effectiveness of the tincture for their specific needs.

In conclusion, knowing the strength of your cannabis tincture is important for proper dosing, consistent dosing experience, managing the effects of cannabis, and understanding its potency and effectiveness. While lab testing is the most accurate way to determine cannabinoid content, basic math calculations can provide a good estimate of the strength of homemade tinctures.

The role of alcohol in the extraction process

High-proof grain alcohol, such as ethanol, is commonly used due to its superior ability to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis flower. Its non-polar nature allows for a wider range of therapeutic compounds to be extracted compared to lower-proof options. The higher the proof, the better the solvent capabilities, as cannabinoids like THC will not dissolve into water. For example, 151-proof Everclear is approximately 70% alcohol, while 95% or 99% ethanol is often used for a more potent and pure extraction.

Freezing the cannabis and high-proof alcohol before mixing them is an important step in the process. Chilling the ingredients to sub-zero temperatures reduces the extraction of chlorophyll, resulting in fewer green pigments and a less bitter taste. Additionally, pre-freezing aids in achieving better cannabinoid extraction rates. The low temperature causes the trichomes on the buds, which house the cannabinoids, to become brittle and break off easily during soaking.

Different types of alcohol can be used for extraction, depending on the intended use of the final product. Vodka and brandy are commonly used, especially for home or folk methods, but they have a relatively low percentage of alcohol compared to commercial production standards. Whiskey, rum, scotch, and tequila typically have higher alcohol percentages, ranging from 40% to 60%. However, it is important to ensure that the alcohol is additive-free, without artificial flavors, colors, or chemicals, to maintain the purity and safety of the tincture.

The impact of the type of alcohol used

The type of alcohol used in a cannabis tincture can have a significant impact on the final product's potency, clarity, and overall quality. Here are some key considerations:

Purity and Potency

The purity and potency of the alcohol play a crucial role in the effectiveness of the tincture. High-proof alcohol, such as Everclear, is often preferred as it contains a higher percentage of alcohol, allowing for better extraction of cannabinoids. Alcohols with a lower percentage of alcohol, such as vodka or brandy, may be less efficient in extracting the cannabinoids and may require more processing.

Cold Extraction

Using cold alcohol during the extraction process can result in a clearer and less cloudy tincture. This is because cold temperatures limit the extraction of plant waxes and oils present in the cannabis plant. For optimal results, the entire process, including ingredients and equipment, should be kept below freezing. Additionally, freezing the cannabis before infusion helps dislodge cannabinoid-rich trichomes, enhancing the potency of the tincture.

Solvent Properties

Different types of alcohol have varying solvent properties, affecting their ability to dissolve cannabinoids and terpenes. Ethyl alcohol (ethanol) is a popular choice due to its unique chemical structure, which allows it to dissolve various substances, including cannabinoids and terpenes. This makes it a powerful solvent for creating effective tinctures.

Base Liquid Interaction

The choice of alcohol can influence how the base liquid interacts with the cannabinoids. Alcohol cuts through the lipids and plant matter, allowing the terpenes and cannabinoids to dissolve more effectively. This results in a more efficient delivery of the cannabinoids into the bloodstream compared to other bases like glycerin or oil.

Flavour and Taste

The type of alcohol used can also impact the flavour and taste of the final product. Freezing the alcohol and cannabis separately before mixing helps to make the tincture taste less like plant matter. Additionally, certain alcohols may impart their flavour profiles, which can be desirable or undesirable depending on the user's preference.

In summary, the type of alcohol used in a cannabis tincture significantly affects the tincture's potency, clarity, and overall quality. High-proof alcohols, such as Everclear or ethanol, are often preferred for their effectiveness in extracting cannabinoids and creating a potent and efficient tincture. Cold extraction techniques further enhance clarity and potency, while also preserving the integrity of the cannabinoids. The solvent properties of the alcohol play a crucial role in dissolving the desired compounds, and the base liquid interaction determines how efficiently the cannabinoids are delivered into the bloodstream. Lastly, the type of alcohol can influence the flavour and taste of the tincture, impacting the overall user experience.

How to calculate the strength of your tincture

To calculate the strength of your cannabis tincture, you need to know the quantities of cannabis and alcohol used, as well as the strength of the cannabis. The basic formula for calculating the strength of a tincture is to divide the amount of THC by the amount of solvent (alcohol). For example, if you have 1 gram of cannabis with 10% THC and you use 5 milliliters of 50% alcohol as your solvent, your calculation would be 100mg THC / 5ml alcohol = 20mg of THC per 1ml of alcohol.

It's important to note that these calculations are just approximations, as not all of the THC will bind to the alcohol. The actual amount of THC in your tincture may be slightly lower, depending on various factors such as the efficiency of the extraction process and the presence of other cannabinoids or terpenes.

When making a cannabis tincture, it's recommended to use high-proof alcohol, such as Everclear, to ensure optimal extraction of cannabinoids. The higher the alcohol percentage, the more effective it will be at dissolving the cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant. However, keep in mind that very high-proof alcohol may be difficult to find and may not be necessary for achieving satisfactory results.

Additionally, the starting material for your tincture should be of high quality and high in cannabinoid content, such as flowers or kief made from trim and leaf. It's important to ensure that your starting material is mold-free and completely dry to prevent any contamination or degradation of your tincture.

By understanding the basic calculations and considerations for making a cannabis tincture, you can better control the strength and effectiveness of your final product. Remember to always store your tincture in a cool, dry place and to shake or stir it regularly during the infusion process to promote even distribution of the cannabinoids and terpenes.

The significance of proper dosing

Cannabis tinctures are concentrated extracts of cannabis plants infused into a base liquid, typically food-grade alcohol, glycerin, or oil. The tincture is then administered orally, often under the tongue (sublingually), allowing the cannabinoids to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the oral mucosa. This method of consumption offers a faster onset of effects compared to edibles and a more precise dosing experience than smoking.

The importance of proper dosing in cannabis tinctures is twofold. Firstly, it ensures that users achieve their desired effects. The "start low and go slow" approach is generally recommended, where users start with a low dose and gradually increase it until they find the minimum effective dose. This method helps users find the "sweet spot" where they experience the desired benefits without unpleasant side effects.

Secondly, proper dosing is crucial for safety. Cannabis tinctures can contain high concentrations of cannabinoids, primarily THC and CBD. These compounds have potent effects on the body, and excessive consumption can lead to adverse reactions such as anxiety, paranoia, or impaired motor function. By dosing correctly, users can avoid these negative experiences and reduce the risk of harm associated with cannabis consumption.

Additionally, proper dosing allows users to control the intensity and duration of the effects. For example, a single high dose may be suitable for promoting sleep, while multiple microdoses throughout the day may provide a more uplifting and sustained experience for general daytime wellness. The ratio of base liquid to cannabis flower also plays a significant role in determining the concentration and potency of the tincture, with lower ratios resulting in more potent tinctures.

Furthermore, proper dosing is essential for cost-effectiveness and sustainability. Cannabis tinctures can be expensive, and improper dosing may lead to unnecessary waste. By dosing correctly, users can make their tinctures last longer and reduce the frequency of purchases. This not only saves money but also reduces the environmental impact associated with the production, packaging, and transportation of cannabis products.

Frequently asked questions