How to Make Your Own Cannabis Tinctures: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making your own cannabis tinctures is a super easy and affordable way to enjoy cannabis on your terms. You get to control the potency, flavor, and vibes, all from the comfort of your kitchen. And don’t worry, you don’t need to be a chemist to pull this off.

Tinctures are basically cannabis-infused liquid, usually made with alcohol or oil. They’re discreet, easy to dose, and can be added to your favorite snacks or taken straight under your tongue. With some great cannabis (like the good stuff we grow at Preston Herb Co), you’ll be whipping up your own tinctures in no time.

Why Make Your Own Tinctures?

Aside from feeling like a cannabis wizard, making your own tinctures means you get full control. You can:

  • Adjust the strength to match your needs.
  • Pick strains that fit your mood.
  • Save cash by making your own stash.

Plus, it’s a low-key way to enjoy cannabis without lighting up.

What Even Is a Cannabis Tincture?

A cannabis tincture is a liquid extract made by soaking cannabis in a solvent (usually alcohol or oil) to pull out all the good stuff - THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids. The result? A potent little potion you can drop under your tongue or mix into food.

Why People Love Tinctures:

  • Easy to use – Just a couple of drops, and you’re good.
  • Discreet – No smoke, no smell, just chill.
  • Precise dosing – Perfect if you want to dial in your ideal experience.

THC vs. CBD Tinctures: What’s the Difference?

  • THC tinctures give you that classic high and are great for pain relief, relaxing, and boosting creativity.
  • CBD tinctures won’t get you high but are awesome for calming anxiety, easing inflammation, and helping you sleep.

Not sure which to pick? Hybrid tinctures give you a mix of both.

What You Need to Get Started

You don’t need a lab, just a few basic supplies:

  • High-quality cannabis (we don’t need to tell you where from)
  • High-proof alcohol (like Everclear) or food-grade glycerin for an alcohol-free option
  • A glass jar with a lid
  • Cheesecloth or a fine strainer
  • A dropper bottle (for easy dosing)
  • A baking sheet (for decarbing your weed)

Step 1: Decarb Your Cannabis (Don’t Skip This!)

Decarboxylation sounds fancy, but it just means heating your weed to activate the THC or CBD. Without this step, your tincture won’t do much.

  1. Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C).
  2. Break your cannabis into small chunks (not too fine).
  3. Spread it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
  5. Let it cool.

Boom. Your cannabis is now activated and ready for the fun part.

Step 2: Infuse Your Cannabis

Here’s where the magic happens. You’ll soak your decarbed cannabis in alcohol or glycerin to extract all the good stuff.

  1. Put your cooled cannabis in a glass jar.
  2. Pour in enough alcohol (or glycerin) to cover it completely.
  3. Seal the jar and give it a good shake.
  4. Store it in a cool, dark place for 2-6 weeks. Shake it once a day to keep things moving.

If you’re in a hurry, you can speed things up by soaking it for a few hours in a warm water bath, but the longer you wait, the stronger it gets.

Step 3: Strain and Bottle It

Once your tincture has infused to your liking, it’s time to strain out the plant material.

  1. Place cheesecloth or a fine strainer over a clean glass jar.
  2. Pour the mixture through to separate the liquid from the leftover plant bits.
  3. Squeeze out every last drop of that precious tincture.
  4. Transfer your tincture to a dark glass dropper bottle to protect it from light and keep it fresh.

Step 4: Store It Right

Keep your tincture in a cool, dark spot like a cupboard. When stored properly, it can stay potent for over a year.

  • Use dark glass bottles (like amber ones) to block out light.
  • Always label your bottles with the strain and date.

How to Dose Your Tincture

Start low, go slow. Especially if you’re new to tinctures.

  • Begin with 1-2 drops under your tongue and wait at least an hour to feel the effects.
  • Adjust the dose as needed. You can always take more, but you can’t un-take it!

Sublingual (under-the-tongue) delivery works faster because it goes straight into your bloodstream. Adding tincture to food will take longer to kick in, but it’s just as effective.

Troubleshooting Common Tincture Issues

  • Too weak? Let it infuse longer or start with stronger cannabis.
  • Too strong? Dilute with more alcohol or glycerin.
  • Weird taste? Flavor can vary by strain—try mixing it into a smoothie or tea.

Conclusion 

Making your own cannabis tinctures is easy, affordable, and puts you in charge of your cannabis experience. With high-quality flower from us, you can create tinctures that fit your vibe perfectly.

So, grab your supplies, get your hands a little sticky, and enjoy the magic of homemade cannabis tinctures. Cheers to crafting your own chill!

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