What is Green Dragon Cannabis Tincture?
Green Dragon is a popular alcohol-based cannabis tincture, often called “Green Dragon” due to its dark green or brownish hue from the extracted plant material. It’s made by infusing decarboxylated cannabis (to activate THC and other cannabinoids) into high-proof alcohol, which acts as a solvent to extract the active compounds like cannabinoids and terpenes. This creates a potent, full-spectrum extract that can be used sublingually (under the tongue) for fast effects, added to food or drinks, or even evaporated into a concentrate like FECO (Full Extract Cannabis Oil). It’s one of the oldest and simplest methods for consuming cannabis medicinally or recreationally, offering benefits like pain relief, anti-inflammation, and relaxation through the entourage effect (where compounds work synergistically).
There are two main variations: the traditional long-soak method (which takes weeks for maximum potency but can taste strong and chlorophyll-heavy) and the quicker “Golden Dragon” or QWET (Quick Wash Ethanol Extraction) method (using frozen materials for a milder, golden-colored tincture in minutes to hours). Both require high-proof alcohol like Everclear (190-proof or 95% ABV) for best results, but lower proofs (151-proof or 75% ABV) work if higher isn’t available—though potency may decrease.
Important Disclaimer: Making or using cannabis products is illegal in many places. This guide is for informational purposes only, assuming you’re in a legal jurisdiction and of legal age. Consult local laws, and if using for medical purposes, speak with a healthcare professional. Handle high-proof alcohol carefully—it’s flammable and toxic if mishandled. Start with low doses to avoid overconsumption, as tinctures act quickly (15-45 minutes sublingually).
Ingredients and Equipment
For a basic batch yielding about 1-2 ounces of tincture (adjust ratios as needed):
- Cannabis: 1/8 to 1/4 ounce (3.5-7 grams) of high-quality, decarboxylated flower or trim. Use strains high in desired cannabinoids (e.g., THC for euphoria, CBD for calm). Finely ground but not powdered to preserve trichomes.
- Alcohol: 2-4 ounces of high-proof grain alcohol (Everclear 190-proof preferred; vodka or rum as alternatives, but less efficient).
- Optional Add-ins: For Golden Dragon variation, freeze everything; for glycerin-based (non-alcohol), use food-grade vegetable glycerin instead, but follow a no-heat method.
Equipment:
- Oven-safe baking sheet and parchment paper (for decarboxylation).
- Glass mason jar with lid (pint-sized).
- Cheesecloth, coffee filter, or fine mesh strainer.
- Dark glass dropper bottles for storage.
- Oven, freezer (for QWET), and a cool, dark storage spot.
Step-by-Step Guide: Traditional Long-Soak Green Dragon Method
This method is beginner-friendly and maximizes extraction over time. Total time: 30-40 minutes active + 2-4 weeks soaking.
- Decarboxylate the Cannabis: Raw cannabis has inactive THCA/CBDA; heat converts it to THC/CBD. Preheat your oven to 220-240°F (105-115°C). Break up the cannabis into small pieces (don’t grind too fine to avoid losing potency). Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 30-45 minutes, stirring halfway. It should turn light brown and fragrant but not burn. Let cool. This step is crucial—skipping it results in a weak, non-psychoactive tincture.
- Prepare the Jar: Place the decarboxylated cannabis in a clean glass jar. Pour in the alcohol until the material is fully submerged (about 1-2 inches above). Use a 1:5 to 1:10 ratio of cannabis to alcohol by weight for potency (e.g., 7g cannabis to 2 oz alcohol).
- Infuse (Soak): Seal the jar tightly. Shake vigorously for 1-2 minutes to mix. Store in a cool, dark place (like a cupboard). Shake daily for the first week. Let soak for 2-4 weeks (minimum 20 days for good extraction). Longer soaks (up to 1-2 months) increase potency but may make it more bitter.
- Strain the Tincture: After soaking, strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another jar, squeezing to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the plant material (or save for topicals). The result should be a dark green-brown liquid.
- Store and Use: Pour into dark dropper bottles to protect from light. Store in a cool, dark place; it lasts 1-2 years. For dosing: Start with 1-2 drops under the tongue, hold for 30-60 seconds, then swallow. Effects peak in 15-45 minutes. A full dropper (1 ml) might equal 10-20mg THC, depending on your strain, and test potency if possible.
Alternative: Quick Golden Dragon (QWET) Method
For a faster, milder-tasting version (total time: 30-60 minutes active + minimal soak). Ideal if you want less chlorophyll flavor.
- Freeze Materials: Decarboxylate as above, then freeze the cannabis for 1-2 hours. Freeze the alcohol and jar too.
- Quick Extraction: In the frozen jar, add frozen cannabis and pour in cold alcohol (just enough to cover, about 1:1 ratio). Shake for 3-5 minutes (quick wash—don’t let it thaw fully).
- Strain Immediately: Filter through cheesecloth while cold. The tincture will be lighter golden-green and less harsh.
- Optional Evaporation: To concentrate, let some alcohol evaporate in a well-ventilated area (or use gentle heat in a double boiler—never open flame). Store as above.
This method yields a cleaner product but slightly lower potency; it's great for edibles or sublingual use.
Tips for Success and Variations
- Potency Testing: Homemade tinctures vary; use a home test kit or start low (e.g., 0.5mg THC per dose for beginners).
- Flavor Improvement: Add terpene-rich herbs like mint during infusion, or dilute with flavored alcohol.
- Non-Alcohol Version: For a glycerin-based “Green Dragon,” skip heat and soak decarbed cannabis in vegetable glycerin for 1-2 months, shaking daily. It’s sweeter and oil-like but extracts less efficiently.
- Master Wu’s Heated Method: For speed, after decarb, soak cannabis in alcohol for 5 minutes, then simmer in a saucepan (double boiler) at low heat for 20-30 minutes. Strain and cool—yields a potent tincture in under an hour, but monitor closely to avoid igniting the alcohol.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t use rubbing alcohol (toxic). Over-grinding loses trichomes. Always decarb. If it tastes too strong, dilute with more alcohol post-straining.
- Uses: Sublingual for fast onset; mix into cocktails, teas, or recipes. For FECO, evaporate all alcohol slowly to get a thick oil.
Safety and Dosage
- Dosage: Effects vary by strain potency (assume 10-20% THC flower yields ~500mg total THC in 1 oz tincture). Beginners: 1 drop (0.05ml) = ~2.5mg THC. Wait 1-2 hours before redosing.
- Risks: Overdose can cause anxiety, nausea, or sedation. Keep away from children/pets—alcohol base is hazardous. If pregnant, nursing, or on meds, avoid or consult a doctor.
- Storage: Airtight, dark bottles in fridge extend shelf life; shake before use.
By following these steps, you can create a versatile tincture tailored to your needs. Experiment responsibly!
