How to Make CBD Tincture at Home | Easy DIY Guide for 2025

Learn how to make CBD tincture at home using CBD flower or isolate. Discover step-by-step instructions, required tools, infusion methods, and dosing tips in this simple guide.

What Is a CBD Tincture?

A CBD tincture is a liquid extract made by soaking CBD-rich hemp flower or isolate in a carrier oil or alcohol base. It’s one of the most effective, fast-acting, and customizable ways to consume CBD.

Tinctures can be used:

• Sublingually (under the tongue)
• Mixed into food or drinks
• In DIY topicals or edibles

Ingredients & Equipment

You’ll Need:

• CBD flower (7–14 grams)
  OR CBD isolate (1–3 grams for pure CBD)
• High-proof alcohol (Everclear 190 proof) or carrier oil (like MCT oil or olive oil)
• Mason jar with lid
• Cheesecloth or fine strainer
• Glass dropper bottles (for storage)
• Oven (for decarboxylation)
• Optional: funnel, measuring cup, gloves

Step 1: Decarboxylate Your CBD Flower

Decarboxylation activates the CBD (converts CBDA to CBD).

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 240°F (115°C)
2. Break flower into small pieces (not too fine)
3. Spread evenly on a baking tray
4. Bake for 30–40 minutes, stirring halfway
5. Let it cool

If you’re using CBD isolate, skip this step.

Step 2: Choose Your Base (Alcohol vs Oil)

Option 1: Alcohol-Based Tincture

• Creates a stronger and longer-lasting tincture
• Better for skin applications or fast absorption
• Taste may be stronger or bitter

Option 2: Oil-Based Tincture (MCT, Coconut, Olive)

• Ideal for edible use
• Milder taste, smoother texture
• Slightly shorter shelf life than alcohol

Step 3: Infuse Your CBD

Alcohol Method (Cold Infusion):

1. Place decarbed flower or isolate in a mason jar
2. Pour in enough alcohol to fully submerge material
3. Seal and store in a cool, dark place
4. Shake daily for 2–4 weeks
5. Strain through cheesecloth into a clean jar

Oil Method (Gentle Heat Infusion):

1. Combine decarbed flower and oil in a mason jar
2. Place jar in a double boiler or water bath
3. Simmer on low heat (130–160°F) for 2–3 hours
4. Stir occasionally, don’t let it boil
5. Let cool, then strain

Optional: Add sunflower lecithin (1 tsp) to increase bioavailability

Step 4: Bottle & Store

• Pour your CBD tincture into dark glass dropper bottles using a funnel
• Label with CBD strength, date, and ingredients
• Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6–12 months

How to Estimate Potency

Use this basic formula:

textCopyEditCBD mg = (CBD % × 1000) × grams used ÷ tincture volume in mL

Example:

• 10g of 15% CBD hemp = 1500mg CBD
• Final tincture: 100mL → 15mg CBD per mL

For CBD isolate:

• 1 gram isolate = 1000mg CBD
• Mixed into 30mL oil → ~33mg per mL

Tips for Success

• Shake well before each use
• Start with 0.25–0.5mL and adjust as needed
• Use a tincture dropper for accurate dosing
• Avoid exposure to heat or light — it degrades CBD

How to Use Your DIY CBD Tincture

• Place under the tongue and hold for 60 seconds
• Mix into coffee, tea, or smoothies
• Add to lotions, salves, or bath bombs
• Dose your pet’s food (use pet-safe carrier oil and check vet guidance)

FAQ – Making CBD Tinctures

Q: Is it legal to make CBD tincture at home?
A: Yes, in most U.S. states — if your hemp flower or isolate is legally sourced and contains less than 0.3% THC.

Q: How long does a homemade CBD tincture last?
A: Up to 1 year if stored properly in a dark, cool place.

Q: Which is better – alcohol or oil tincture?
A: Alcohol-based is more shelf-stable and potent; oil-based is better for ingestion and taste.

Final Thoughts

Now you know how to make your own CBD tincture at home — an affordable, customizable, and natural way to experience the wellness benefits of CBD.

Whether you’re managing anxiety, improving sleep, or supporting recovery, DIY tinctures give you full control over strength, purity, and ingredients.