How to Make Cannabis Tincture

Creating a cannabis tincture can be a safe and effective way to consume cannabis for medical or recreational purposes. Tinctures are discreet, easy to dose, and provide a rapid onset of effects. This guide will walk you through the steps to make a potent and efficacious cannabis tincture at home.

Ingredients You Will Need:

1. Cannabis: You’ll need dried, decarboxylated cannabis flower or trim. The strain you choose will affect the tincture’s effects, so pick one that suits your needs.
2. High-Proof Alcohol: Typically, 90-95% ethanol (grain alcohol) is recommended for tincture making. Everclear is a popular choice. Do not use rubbing alcohol or isopropyl alcohol, as they are toxic.
3. A Jar: A glass mason jar with a tight-sealing lid.
4. Strainer or Cheesecloth: To strain the tincture.
5. Dark Glass Bottles with Droppers: To store your finished tincture.

Tools You Will Need:

1. Grinder: To grind the cannabis to a fine consistency.
2. Oven: To decarboxylate the cannabis.
3. Baking Sheet: For decarboxylation.
4. Funnel: For pouring the tincture into bottles.

Step 1: Decarboxylation

Decarboxylation is the process of heating cannabis to activate its psychoactive compounds, such as THC and CBD. This step is essential for making a potent tincture.

1. Preheat your oven to 220-240°F (104-115°C).
2. Break the cannabis into smaller pieces and spread it evenly on a baking sheet.
3. Bake the cannabis in the oven for about 30-45 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and fragrant. This process activates the cannabinoids without burning them.

Step 2: Combine Cannabis and Alcohol

1. Place your decarboxylated cannabis in a mason jar.
2. Pour enough high-proof alcohol into the jar to cover the cannabis completely. Use a 1:1 ratio of cannabis to alcohol for a potent tincture.

Step 3: Extraction

1. Seal the jar tightly with its lid.
2. Shake the jar vigorously for about 5 minutes to ensure thorough mixing.
3. Store the sealed jar in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks. Shake it gently once a day during this time to aid the extraction process.

Step 4: Straining and Bottling

1. After 2 weeks, strain the tincture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into another clean jar or bowl.
2. Squeeze the strainer or cheesecloth to extract as much liquid as possible.
3. Use a funnel to pour the tincture into dark glass bottles with droppers for easy dosing.

Step 5: Dosing and Usage

1. Start with a low dose, such as a single drop under the tongue.
2. Wait 60-90 minutes to assess the effects. Tinctures can take longer to kick in compared to smoking or vaping.
3. Adjust your dose as needed to achieve your desired level of relief or euphoria.

Important Tips:

• Always label your tincture bottles with the strain used, date of creation, and potency (if known).
• Store your tincture in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to preserve its potency.
• Be cautious with dosing, especially if you’re new to cannabis. Start low and go slow to avoid overconsumption.
• Consult with a healthcare professional, particularly if you’re using cannabis for medicinal purposes or have any underlying health conditions.

Remember that cannabis laws vary by location, so make sure to research and comply with your local regulations before making and using cannabis tinctures. Enjoy your homemade cannabis tincture responsibly and in moderation.