You’ve heard the terms tincture, oil-based CBD, and water-based CBD oil—but what are they, and which one is best for you? Let’s clear up the confusion and help you make the right choice for your health and wellness needs.
First of All, What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is a natural extract derived from the hemp plant and contains cannabidiol (CBD)—a compound known for its potential health benefits. CBD is typically used to support relaxation, reduce stress, ease everyday discomfort, and promote a sense of balance and well-being in the body—without altering your mental state.
What is Regular Oil-Based CBD Oil
Oil-based CBD oil is the most common type of CBD product, and most economical to create. It's made by extracting CBD from the hemp plant and mixing it with a carrier oil like MCT oil (from coconuts), hemp seed oil, or olive oil. This helps your body absorb the CBD, since CBD is naturally fat-soluble—meaning it binds well to fats, not water.
A common misconception is that Oil-based CBD oil is not the raw oil from the hemp plant, but the extract from the plant mixed with a carrier oil.
Oil-Based CBD Oil
- Its Base: MCT oil, hemp seed oil, or olive oil
- Absorption: Slower (must pass through digestion first)
- Best Use: Under the tongue, or on skin
- Taste: Often mild or earthy
- Common Examples: Traditional CBD oils and tinctures
What Is Water-Based CBD Oil
Water-based CBD oil, also known as water-soluble CBD, is a form of CBD that has been specially processed so it can dissolve and mix easily with water. Normally, CBD is fat-soluble, meaning it doesn’t mix well with water and can be harder for your body to absorb. With water-based CBD, an advanced process called emulsification breaks the CBD oil into tiny, water-friendly particles that your body can absorb more quickly and efficiently.
Water-based CBD oil is designed to work faster and be more effective than regular oil-based CBD.
Water-Based (Water-Soluble) CBD Oil
- Its Base: A new technology that renders CBD oil water-soluble
- Its Absorption: Faster and more efficient than Oil-Based
- Use: Under the tongue or mixed into drinks
- Taste: Often lighter and more easily flavored
- Ideal For: People who want quick results or better absorption
Additional Benefits:
- Mixes into drinks
- Gentler on the stomach
So if you want a CBD product that works quickly and efficiently, water-based CBD oil is a smart choice.
What Is a CBD Tincture
A tincture of CBD oil is alcohol-based. It's a liquid form of CBD that’s made by soaking hemp in high-proof alcohol to extract the beneficial compounds, including CBD. The result is a concentrated liquid that’s usually taken under the tongue using a dropper for fast absorption.
Unlike regular CBD oil, which uses a carrier oil like coconut or hemp seed oil, tinctures use alcohol as the base. Some tinctures may include added flavors or sweeteners to improve the taste.
Why Some People Do or Do Not Choose Tinctures
- Tinctures have been used in herbal remedies for centuries
- May not be ideal if you're avoiding alcohol
- Tinctures can have a bitter taste
- Tinctures absorb best when taken under the tongue
- Tinctures have been used in herbal remedies for centuries
Are all Oil-Based CBD Oils Tinctures? What About Water-Based?
No, not all CBD tinctures are oil-based—in fact, most traditional CBD tinctures are alcohol-based.
Here’s a Quick Breakdown:
- Traditional CBD “tinctures” are made by soaking hemp in high-proof alcohol, not water. These are alcohol-based tinctures
- Regular oil-based CBD oils are made by blending CBD extract with a carrier oil like MCT or hemp seed oil. These are oil-based
- Water-soluble or water-based CBD tinctures are a newer kind of product. They use advanced technology to make CBD mix easily with water, which can improve how well and how fast your body absorbs it. These are often labeled as water-soluble CBD or nano CBD, but they’re not the same as traditional alcohol-based tinctures
ultraZwell™ Natural CBD Oil, for example, is a water-soluble CBD oil, not an alcohol-based tincture—so it's easier for your body to absorb and gentle on your system.
Why ultraZwell™ Natural or Lemon CBD Oil Is the Better Choice
With so many CBD options on the market, it’s important to choose one that’s both effective and enjoyable to use. That’s where ultraZwell™ Natural CBD Oil shines.
Here’s Why It Stands Above Standard Oils and Tinctures
- ✓ Advanced Water-Soluble Technology
Unlike regular oils, ultraZwell™ Natural uses water-soluble technology to help your body absorb more CBD—faster and more completely. - ✓ Delicious, Natural Flavor
Say goodbye to bitter tinctures. ultraZwell™ Natural has a smooth, fruity flavor you’ll actually look forward to—no alcohol burn, no weird aftertaste. - ✓ Full-Spectrum Power
Our CBD oil includes a full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes, working together for the entourage effect—which may enhance the overall benefits of CBD. - ✓ Safe, Clean and Third-Party Tested
- Sourced from premium U.S. hemp
- Contains less than 0.3% THC (federally legal)
- Rigorously tested for purity, safety, and consistency
- ✓ Fast-Acting Wellness Support
Because of our unique ultraZwell™ Natural formula, many people begin to feel results in just 15 to 45 minutes—making it a great solution for everyday stress, discomfort, and relaxation.
Is ultraZwell™ Natural Right for You or Your Pet?
If you’re looking for a CBD product that’s clean, effective, pleasant-tasting, and trusted by health professionals, ultraZwell™ Natural CBD Oil is a smart, no-compromise choice. It is formulated for larger pets – over 20 pounds.
Whether you’re brand new to CBD or looking for something better than tinctures, ultraZwell™ Natural gives you clarity, calm, and comfort—without the guesswork.