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:
- Preheat oven to 240°F (115°C)
- Break flower into small pieces (not too fine)
- Spread evenly on a baking tray
- Bake for 30–40 minutes, stirring halfway
- 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):
- Place decarbed flower or isolate in a mason jar
- Pour in enough alcohol to fully submerge material
- Seal and store in a cool, dark place
- Shake daily for 2–4 weeks
- Strain through cheesecloth into a clean jar
Oil Method (Gentle Heat Infusion):
- Combine decarbed flower and oil in a mason jar
- Place jar in a double boiler or water bath
- Simmer on low heat (130–160°F) for 2–3 hours
- Stir occasionally, don’t let it boil
- 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.
