Green Dragon Cannabis Tincture was one of the most commonly used ways to ingest the humble Mary Jane before she was caught in the crossfire when the United States federal administration declared the War on Drugs.
What is a Tincture?
A simple definition; tinctures are extracts made by soaking the leaves, bark and roots of herbs in an alcohol solvent. The solvent draws out the active compounds in the plants, dissolves and concentrates them. Tinctures have been used as medicine for a variety of ailments for many years.
What is a Cannabis Tincture?
There are a few options when it comes to Cannabis Tinctures. The best solvent for extracting as many cannabinoids and terpenes as possible is PGA (pure grain alcohol). Enters the Green Dragon, an alcohol-based cannabis tincture. For a lower ABV cannabis tincture with a defined flavour profile, you could use your favourite vodka, brandy or whisk(e)y.
Alcohol-free
If you are avoiding alcohol for whatever reason, your tincture will have an alcohol percentage, you could replace the alcohol with an MCT oil. MCT is oil derived from coconuts, it is easily digested and can be taken sublingually just like a tincture.
Benefits of using Cannabis Tinctures
Cannabis tinctures are quick and easy to make at home. Consumption is effortless, fast-acting and discreet. Making your own cannabis tincture will save you money and homemade tinctures are customizable. You can add lavender and chamomile to make a tincture for anxiety and relaxation or try turmeric and ginger for an anti-inflammatory tincture to target pain relief.
Choosing your Bud
Shop around for the desired cannabinoid combination. You could choose a THC forward strain, or decide on a variety with a higher percentage of CBD or CBG cannabinoids. It all depends on what desired effects you are after. You can calculate the potency of your cannabis tincture by using a tincture edibles calculator.
How to make your own Green Dragon Cannabis Tincture
You will need a mason jar, high-proof and safe for consumption alcohol, strainer and your marijuana of choice.
Cold extraction
There are several sources that recommend placing the jar in the back of your freezer instead. This cold process is said to extract cannabinoids and terpenes more efficiently but leaves behind the Chlorophyll. Which is the part that makes the plant green and helps it create its own food through the process of photosynthesis. Some people prefer to avoid it altogether, as it is an acquired taste. But within at least seven days of keeping the tincture in the back of your freezer and giving it a shake-a-day, your tincture will be ready to be strained within seven to ten days.
Dosage
Go low, go slow! Stick to one or two drops under your tongue to start. Once you have tested the potency of your marijuana tincture paired with your own tolerance you will have a better understanding of what your dosage is. Keep it under your tongue for 20-30 seconds for the medication to absorb directly into your bloodstream, the tincture burns under the tongue at first, but this does not last very long.
It is pretty easy to make your own Green Dragon Cannabis Tincture at home. If you enjoy the benefits and effects of cannabis, this is the edibles solution for you! Taken sublingually it is fast-acting, the dosage is controllable and you will be saving money! Try it today!