If someone mentions medical marijuana, chances are that you’ll automatically think of a blazing joint or even a vape pen. The truth is that there are multiple ways to consume your MMJ. From edibles to smoking, the variety is wide. However, a method that is quickly growing in popularity is actually one of the oldest methods of consuming marijuana. MMJ tinctures are easily bought or prepared, and patients are ensuring that they are becoming more popular by the day.
What Are MMJ Tinctures?
A tincture is a high alcohol-based liquid that has marijuana infused into it. It is usually administered via a dropper onto the tongue from a small bottle. It allows for patients to dose themselves steadily throughout the day. It is also a more discreet way of consuming medical marijuana and is easily transported, given the fact that it is easily disguised.
Where Do You Get MMJ Tinctures?
You need to make sure that you have your medical marijuana card so that you can legally obtain MMJ. Speak to your physician, or get an online consultation and you’ll be given a letter stating your need for medical marijuana. Then you’ll be able to visit your local dispensary and speak to them about the best tincture for you. As with any form of medical marijuana, different strains work best for different symptoms, so make sure you’re informed before you make a purchase.
How Do You Make MMJ Tinctures?
The comfort of a professionally produced tincture is obvious, but what if you want to venture out and make your own homemade tincture? There are two main methods of doing this: the hot method and the cold method. There are positives and negatives to each method, and it is best to research both extensively before you try them out at home.
The Hot Method
Hot extraction means that heat is used to extract the THC from the marijuana buds into the tincture. It’s a far more involved process than cold extraction, but its fans argue that it is totally worth the effort.
First, you’ll need to chop your marijuana buds so you have a greater surface area with which to work. Then, you need to bake it in an oven for four to five minutes at 325°F. After baking, transfer your buds into your alcohol solution using the highest proof of edible alcohol that you can find. This will depend on what is available in your area. Simmer your mixture of marijuana and alcohol in a bowl in a water bath, making sure the mixture never actively simmers.
There are some safety issues in this process, so make sure you are extremely careful. If you’re in any way nervous, cold extraction may be a better option. Finish off your tincture by straining it. YouTube is an excellent resource for finding involved videos that show off every step of this complex process
The Cold Method
If hot extraction seems too intimidating, you may prefer to do the cold extraction. It takes a lot longer but is far easier for patients who aren’t as familiar with the methods involved in extracting MMJ to tincture form.
All you’ll need for cold extraction is a glass jar, medical marijuana and high-proof alcohol. Fill your jar about three-quarters of the way with medical marijuana. Then, top off the jar with alcohol, leaving some room to stir and shake. Put the lid on your jar, and shake it twice a day for about two weeks. When you notice the color has gone from the MMJ, remove the mixture from the jar, strain it and use it as a tincture. This process is much easier than hot extraction but will produce a slightly weaker tincture than hot extraction.
What’s the Best Way to Use MMJ Tinctures?
The best way to use a tincture is to place one or two drops under your tongue from a dropper bottle. Less is more with MMJ tinctures, and you will have to play with the dosage and frequency until you find the right amounts for you. As the concentration of MMJ tinctures can be a lot higher than smoking, vaping or edibles, take an easy hand at the start. The good thing about a small tincture bottle is that it can be easily slipped into your handbag or pocket, so if you feel the need to use more, it’ll be right there whenever you want it.
MMJ tinctures are a great place to start for someone who may be slightly unsure about the best way to consume medical marijuana. They are discreet, easily transported and without any other side effects just as having to smoke, vape or eat something to ingest the MMJ. As long as you have your medical marijuana card, the world of MMJ tinctures is your oyster, so get out and see what the fuss is about!