How to Make a CBD Tincture at Home
CBD tinctures are one of the most popular ways to take cannabidiol because they are:
- Easy to dose
- Long-lasting
- Versatile (can be added to drinks or food)
But buying high-quality CBD tinctures can be expensive. Making your own tincture at home allows you to:
- Control the strength and ingredients
- Save money
- Use organic or locally sourced hemp
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a CBD tincture at home safely and effectively, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DIYer.
What Is a CBD Tincture?
A CBD tincture is a liquid extract of cannabidiol (CBD) typically made by:
- Soaking hemp flower in alcohol (traditional method)
- Or infusing hemp flower into carrier oils like MCT oil (common in modern CBD oils)
Both methods are effective, but alcohol-based tinctures have a longer shelf life, while oil-based tinctures are milder in taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
CBD-Rich Hemp Flower
Look for high-CBD, low-THC hemp strains such as:
- Lifter
- Suver Haze
- Special Sauce
Solvent (Choose One):
Solvent Type | Purpose |
---|---|
High-proof alcohol (like Everclear) | Best for traditional tinctures |
MCT oil or olive oil | For oil-based tinctures |
Other Supplies:
- Mason jar (glass with lid)
- Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
- Glass dropper bottles (for storage)
- Funnel
- Baking sheet (for decarboxylation)
Step-by-Step: How to Make a CBD Tincture
Step 1: Decarboxylate the Hemp
Raw hemp contains CBDa (cannabidiolic acid), which must be converted to CBD through a heating process called decarboxylation.
How to Decarb Hemp:
- Preheat oven to 240°F (115°C)
- Break up hemp flower into small pieces
- Spread evenly on a baking sheet
- Bake for 40–60 minutes, stirring occasionally
- Let cool
Step 2: Prepare the Tincture Base
Alcohol-Based Method (Traditional Tincture):
- Place decarbed hemp in a mason jar
- Pour in high-proof alcohol until the hemp is fully submerged
- Close the jar tightly
- Store in a cool, dark place for 2–4 weeks, shaking daily
- After infusion, strain through cheesecloth into a clean jar
Oil-Based Method (CBD Oil Tincture):
- Combine decarbed hemp with MCT oil or olive oil in a jar
- Use a double boiler or slow cooker on low heat (130–160°F) for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally
- After infusion, strain out plant material using cheesecloth
- Pour the oil into glass dropper bottles for storage
Step 3: Store Your CBD Tincture
- Use dark glass bottles to protect from light
- Keep tinctures in a cool, dry place
- Label with date and potency (if known)
How to Use Your Homemade CBD Tincture
- Take under the tongue (sublingual) for faster absorption
- Add to smoothies, tea, or food
- Start with small doses (5–10 mg) and adjust as needed
How to Calculate Potency (Optional)
Simple Estimation Formula:
1 gram of CBD hemp flower = about 100–200 mg of CBD, depending on strain.
For accurate dosing, consider using third-party lab testing if possible.
Is Making CBD Tincture Legal?
In the U.S., making CBD tincture from hemp (with less than 0.3% THC) is federally legal, but:
- Check your state’s hemp laws
- Do NOT use marijuana (high-THC cannabis) unless you live in a legalized state
Final Thoughts: How to Make a CBD Tincture
Summary:
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Is it easy to make CBD tincture? | Yes, with basic tools and knowledge |
What’s the best method? | Alcohol-based for shelf life, oil-based for taste |
How long does it last? | Alcohol tinctures: 1–2 years, oil tinctures: 6–12 months |