THC Tincture vs Edible - Key Differences Explained

Tinctures and edibles are two popular categories of non-inhaled cannabis products that have a strong appeal for new and health-conscious customers. These products may seem similar at first glance, but they offer the consumer very different experiences.

Both options offer discreet and versatile ways to consume cannabis and pack the punch many marijuana enthusiasts are looking for. Knowing how to use these two products will ensure you get the best out of each one.

What Are THC Tinctures?

THC tinctures are one kind of cannabis extract. A tincture is produced by soaking the flower of cannabis plants in alcohol, oil, or glycerin. The plant's therapeutic compounds then mix with the liquid over several weeks before being strained. The potent tincture that remains can be consumed in three ways:

• Sublingually: The most common way to consume THC tinctures is by dropping the desired amount under the tongue.

• Swallowed directly: You can swallow THC tincture directly.

• Mixed with food or drinks: Others like to mix it with a drink. Or, mix it with oil and consume it with your favorite sweet or savory foods. This could be a good option if you don't like the taste of tinctures.

If you're looking for a tincture that offers psychoactive effects, make sure you reach for a THC tincture. CBD tinctures (with no THC) and CBD-rich cannabis tinctures won't offer the same "high" but may offer other therapeutic effects.

Benefits of THC Tinctures

THC tinctures offer several benefits:

1. The effects are felt sooner: Tinctures taken sublingually tend to have a swifter onset of effects compared to edibles because they're absorbed straight into the bloodstream through the mucus membranes in the mouth. The consumer will feel the desired results more quickly as the tincture doesn’t need to be passed through the stomach and liver first.

2. They offer an alternative to smoking: Tinctures offer a potent hit like smoking weed, but sidestep inhalation. This may be beneficial for medical cannabis customers who don’t want to or can’t smoke.

3. It's easier to measure the dosage of tinctures: Tinctures can be taken by the drop and each drop contains a consistent amount of active compounds. Being able to accurately dose your product allows you to take just the right amount without overconsuming or feeling underwhelmed by the product. Finding the right dosage will be a question of experimenting.

Remember that some cannabis tinctures are extremely potent. Go slow the first few times (start with only a couple of drops of cannabis tincture every 90 minutes) until you become familiar with how much you need for the effects you're seeking.

What are Cannabis Edibles?

Cannabis edibles are food or beverage products infused with cannabis extracts or ground cannabis flower. Edibles come in many different shapes and forms. You can find classic baked goods like brownies or cookies as well as chocolates, candies, gummies, drinks, and even whole weed-infused meals.

Edibles are an effective way to consume products derived from the cannabis plant but it takes some time to feel the effects. With edibles, the cannabinoids must pass through the digestive tract and be metabolized by the liver before the effects are felt.

The edible dosage for daily smokers will likely be greater than for beginners. If you’re not used to edibles, proceed with caution to avoid overconsumption.

Benefits of Edibles

Consuming marijuana edibles has many potential benefits. Among these are:

1. Edibles are a discreet way of consuming cannabis as they're odorless and resemble any regular snack. Eating edibles is unlikely to draw a lot of attention.

2. The effects of edibles tend to last longer than many other consumption methods. This is because the ingested cannabinoids are processed by the liver. 

3. Edibles are a delicious way to consume weed without smoking or vaping.

Budtenders in your local Seattle dispensary can tell you all about edibles and provide personalized advice and product recommendations.

Main Differences between THC Tinctures and Edibles

The main differences between tinctures and edibles are the following:

	THC Tinctures	Edibles
Ease of Dosing	It’s easier to consume just the right amount of THC with a tincture. Use the dropper and count the number of drops carefully. Every drop will contain the same concentration of cannabinoids. If you’re a beginner, start with a low number of drops until you find the right dose for you.	Dosing with edibles can be more difficult: The amount of THC can vary in each bite and across batches made at different times. This is less of a problem with precisely dosed dispensary edibles than it is with homemade edibles. Delayed intoxication may cause individuals to consume more than they need.
Onset of Effects	Sublingual effects can take between 15 minutes and two hours to kick in [1].	It can take between 30 minutes and two hours to feel the edibles’ effects. It may take up to four hours to feel the full effects [1].
Duration of Effects	Tinctures tend to last from two to six hours with some possible residual effects for up to 24 hours [1].	Full effects can be appreciated within four hours but effects could be felt for up to 12 hours. Residual effects could linger for up to 24 hours after consumption [1].

Tips for Positive Experiences With Tinctures and Edibles

Choosing your favorite cannabis consumption method boils down to your preferences and choices. Having so many different products and ways to take them means you can have fun experimenting while customizing your experience.

When considering tinctures vs edibles, consider:

1. Your Preferences and Goals: If you're looking for precise dosing and a fast onset of effects, tinctures are the way forward. If you prefer a tasty treat and don't mind waiting for the effects, edibles could be the best choice for you.

2. Fast or Slow Experience: Some consumers may want fast results for various reasons. If you're looking for an instant experience, choose tinctures. If you want to savor the experience and enjoy them as part of a longer session, edibles may be more appealing.

Tinctures vs Edibles: It's a Question of Personal Choice!

Both tinctures and edibles offer excellent options for a blissful experience. Which one you choose will come down to personal preference and how quickly you want to feel the effects.

Beginners should start slow when working out their ideal dosage, especially when consuming edibles. Be careful not to mistake a slow onset for an ineffective product. Be patient and enjoy the ride!