Tinctures vs. Gummies vs. Topicals: Which Hemp Format Fits You?

The short answer: Tinctures, gummies, and topicals are three ways to use hemp. Tinctures are drops you measure yourself, gummies are pre-measured, and topicals go on your skin. Each format also comes with different cannabinoids, from non-intoxicating CBD to THC options for adults 21+. Pick the format that fits your routine, then the cannabinoid that fits what you're looking for.

Here's how each one works and what's available in each.

First, a quick cannabinoid key

You'll see these on our labels:

Not sure which spectrum to pick? Read Isolate or Full-Spectrum? How to Read Labels with Confidence.

Tinctures

A tincture is hemp extract blended into a carrier oil, sold in a bottle with a dropper. Most people hold the drops under the tongue for a moment before swallowing, or stir them into a drink.

Why people choose them:

• You control the serving. The dropper lets you take a little more or a little less, and the label lists the mg per dropper.
• Easy to add to things you already do, like your morning coffee or evening tea.

What's available: all tinctures, including full spectrum, broad spectrum, and CBD isolate, plus delta-8 tinctures for adults 21+.

Gummies

Gummies are pre-measured, with a set amount of cannabinoids in each piece, listed on the label. They're digested like food, so they generally take longer to get into your system than a tincture held under the tongue.

Why people choose them:

• No measuring. Every gummy is the same, so it's simple to stay consistent.
• Easy to take anywhere. No dropper, no taste of oil.
• The widest range of cannabinoids of any format.

Non-intoxicating gummies: full spectrum, CBD isolate, CBG, and CBN.

THC gummies (21+ only): these will get you high. Choose from delta-9, delta-8, THCP, and HHC. Our delta-9 lineup includes gummies from our sister brands Turnt Up and Anchored. THC gummies vary a lot in strength from product to product, so check the mg per piece, start with a small amount, and wait before having more. Never drive after using THC.

See every option on our gummies page, or browse all edibles, including chocolate and drinks.

Topicals

Topicals are creams, roll-ons, and salves you apply to your skin. You don't swallow them, so they're a different experience from tinctures and gummies.

Why people choose them:

• They fit into a skincare or after-shower routine you already have.
• You choose where they go. Apply them to the area you want.
• Warming or cooling. Hot creams, cold creams, and roll-ons, plus unscented coconut salves.

What's available: all topicals in both full spectrum and CBD isolate, so you can pick whole-plant or zero-THC. Browse lotions and creams or salves, and see what goes into them in Hot or Cold? Understanding the Ingredients Behind Colorado Cures Topical Creams.

Side by side

How to choose

Ask yourself two questions:

1. How do I want to use it? Adjustable drops (tincture), grab-and-go (gummy), or on the skin (topical).
2. Do I want a buzz? If not, stick with CBD, CBG, or CBN. If you're 21+ and want one, look at delta-9 or delta-8.

Plenty of people use more than one. A tincture in the morning coffee and a cream after a shower is a common combo.

Whatever you pick, check the lab report

Every Colorado Cures product has a QR code that links to its own lab report, so you can see exactly what's in your batch. Browse them all on our Lab Results page.

Ready to try one? Use code CCTEN for 10% off and free shipping on your first order.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. THC products are for adults 21+ only. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not drive or operate machinery after using THC. Talk to your doctor before use, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or take medication. Hemp-derived THC can show up on a drug test.

FAQ

What's the difference between a tincture and gummies? A tincture is hemp extract in oil that you measure with a dropper. Gummies are pre-measured, with a set amount in each piece. Gummies are digested like food, so they generally take longer to get into your system.

Are topicals swallowed? No. Creams, roll-ons, and salves are applied to the skin.

Which hemp products get you high? CBD, CBG, and CBN products don't. Delta-9 THC, delta-8 THC, THCP, and HHC products do, and they're only for adults 21 and older.

Do full spectrum products contain THC? Yes, trace amounts, 0.3% delta-9 THC or less. If you want zero THC, choose CBD isolate or broad spectrum.

Can I use more than one format? Yes. Many people use a tincture and a topical at different points in their routine. Check each label for what's inside.

What's the difference between a CBD tincture and CBD gummies? A tincture is CBD in oil that you measure with a dropper. Gummies are pre-measured, with a set amount of CBD in each piece. Gummies are digested like food, so they generally take longer to get into your system.

Are CBD topicals swallowed? No. Topicals like lotions and salves are applied to the skin.

Do CBD gummies get you high? No. CBD is non-intoxicating. Gummies made with THC are a different product and are only for adults 21 and older.

Can I use more than one CBD format? Yes. Many people use a tincture and a topical as part of different parts of their routine. Check each label for the amount of CBD.