CBD tinctures or cannabidiol tinctures are supplements that have high cannabidiol content. They come in a liquid format and they are one of the most popular ways to deliver CBD. CBD tinctures are created using a very precise and strict process. Hemp flowers with a high CBD content are first extracted to a distillate or isolate and then mixed with a carrier oil to create a tincture. Although time-consuming, the process is simple and the tincture it yields is of high quality.
What are Carrier Oils?
Carrier oils come into play once the first step is complete. The concentrated CBD liquid is mixed with a nutritious carrier oil. These oils usually enhance the taste of the tincture while also adding to its overall health benefits. Oils commonly found in CBD tinctures include Olive Oil, Hemp Seed Oil, MCT Oil, Grapeseed Oil and Flax Seed Oil. Let’s take a closer look at a few of these carrier oils and the benefits they provide your body and mind.
Olive Oil
The benefits of olive oil are countless. Naturally extracted from olives, olive oil is rich in healthy monosaturated fats, also known as oleic acid. Monosaturated fats reduce inflammation and are known to have beneficial effects on genes that are linked to cancer. Olive oil is one of the most nutritious and nourishing oils available. Aside from healthy fats, it’s also rich in vitamins K and E and contains lots of antioxidants. These antioxidants play an active part in reducing the risk of chronic disease, protecting your blood cholesterol from oxidation, and fighting inflammation. Antioxidants are also good for heart health, reducing your chances of heart diseases.
Several large scientific studies on the benefits of olive oil also demonstrate that consuming olive oil daily reduces the chances of a stroke – which is the second biggest cause of death in developed countries. Olive oil lowers blood pressure, improves the function of blood vessels, and protects LDL cholesterol particles from oxidation. Clinical trials and observational studies also indicate that olive oil may reduce the risk of type 2 Diabetes. When used moderately, it also aids in weight loss. Olive oil reduces swelling and joint pain that can occur as a result of rheumatoid arthritis. It also has antibacterial properties, which is especially beneficial when it comes to fighting Helicobacter pylori – a bacteria known to cause ulcers and stomach cancer. Healthy consumption of olive oil helps your heart, joints, brain, and more.
Hemp Seed Oil
Hemp seed oil is directly extracted from the seeds of hemp plants. They contain little to no THC and is one of the most nutritionally strong and diverse oils available. Hemp seed oil has a strong profile of nutrients, useful bioactive vitamins and minerals, and healthy fats. It contains two essential polyunsaturated fatty acids – LNA and LA, which is especially beneficial for the heart. Hemp seed oil is rich in gamma-linoleic acid or GLA. GLA is known to improve hormone health, reduce menstrual cramps, and help manage other symptoms associated with PMS like breast tenderness and feelings of depression or irritability. GLA in Hemp Seed Oil also aids in weight loss by suppressing appetite and reducing sugar cravings.
Hemp seed oil is also used to alleviate skin conditions. It’s rich in essential fatty acids, nutrients, and antioxidants – making it the perfect carrier oil for healing treatments and massages. It also relieves acne, minor abrasions, psoriasis, eczema, itchy skin, and dermatitis. It works as an immune-enhancing supplement, boosting and strengthening your immune system. It’s one of the most useful oils for pain management. People suffering from chronic pain often turn to hemp seed oil as an alternative to allopathic pain killers. Other benefits of hemp seed oil include improving brain development, preventing and treating diabetes, enhancing digestive health, and improving hair growth. Hemp seed oil has numerous benefits for everyone.
MCT Oil
Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil is a supplement used in smoothies, salad dressings, and bulletproof coffee. It contains chains of medium-length fats known as triglycerides. Because of their short length, MCTs are easier to digest, offering many health benefits for the body. MCT oil is can be extracted from coconut oil, palm oil, and dairy products. MCT oil promotes weight loss by increasing energy burning, fat loss, ketone production, fullness, and improving the gut environment. It acts as an instant energy source that also fuels and stimulates better brain activity. MCT oil is easier for the body to absorb when compared to other oils. As such, it’s easily transported throughout the body. MCT oil helps improve brain function which in turn has benefits for people with autism, epilepsy, and Alzheimer’s disease.
MCT oil also contains numerous fatty acids that help control and reduce the growth of bacteria and yeast. MCTs are known to have various antifungal and antimicrobial effects. It also reduces cholesterol and weight, and control blood sugar levels which are the prime causes of heart disease and diabetes.
Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is processed from the seeds of grapes. The oil is usually extracted in factories by crushing the seeds and using solvents but some processors will use a cold-press extraction technology. Grapeseed oil is high in Vitamin E and phenolic antioxidants. It is also a rich source of omega-6 polyunsaturated fats.
Flaxseed Oil
Flax seeds are known for health benefits which have protein and fiber so it is no surprise that flaxseed oil also shares those same benefits. Flaxseed oil is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. Some studies have shown that flaxseed oil could improve heart helath by reducing blood pressure and increasing the elasticity of the arteries. Some other studies have shown that flaxseed oil may also help treat constipation and diarrhea.
Which carrier oil is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
Sources:
https://www.royalqueenseeds.com/blog-cbd-tinctures-everything-you-need-to-know-n990
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits#section9
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-olive-oil#section4
https://cannalist.eu/12-benefits-of-hemp-seed-oil-for-great-health/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mct-oil-benefits
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/grape-seed-oil#TOC_TITLE_HDR_4
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/flaxseed-oil-benefits