Debunking the Sublingual Tincture Myth: Understanding the Reality

Weighing the Risks Against the Proposed Benefits

Tinctures are alcohol-based herbal extracts, which makes them incredibly effective at administering the phytochemicals present in pine pollen.

Sublingual administration of tinctures has gained popularity in recent years, with proponents claiming enhanced absorption and faster effects. This is further compounded by those advocating that pine pollen tincture is best taken sublingually.

Stephan Buhner, the author of Vital Man and The Natural Testosterone Plan, recommends sublingual administration for Pine Pollen tinctures. He argues that this method allows the tincture to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream, which is beneficial for people with poor digestion. Additionally, some people believe that Pine Pollen's phytosterols (plant hormones) are best absorbed this way.

However, a closer examination of the science reveals that these claims are based on misunderstandings, and there is serious opposition to sublingual tincture taking. Susan Weed, a respected herbalist and author, argues that the blood vessels under the tongue are too sensitive to handle the high alcohol content in tinctures, and that this method can lead to cell mutation and cancer.

In this article, we will explore the rationale behind sublingual tincture use, review its validity, discuss the potential risks associated with this practice, and emphasize the importance of understanding the basic anatomy of absorption.

Knowledge is key to making an informed decision, and ultimately, it is up to you to decide what works best for you.

Advocates of Sublingual Tincture Use Claim the Following:

• Enhanced absorption: By holding tinctures under the tongue, advocates argue that the active compounds are directly absorbed into the bloodstream. This bypasses the digestive system, leading to quicker effects.
• Increased bioavailability: Sublingual absorption is suggested to increase the bioavailability of active compounds in tinctures, maximizing their therapeutic potential. Advocates argue that the naturally occurring phyto-androgens in Pine Pollen are only bioavailable when administered sublingually.

Understanding the Basics of Anatomy:

• Epithelial Absorption: The epithelial lining of the digestive system, including the esophagus and stomach, is highly efficient at absorbing alcohol. While proponents are not wrong in stating that tinctures are quickly and efficiently absorbed through the sublingual capillaries, they are mistaken in assuming that this is the only method to gain such an advantage.
• Gastrointestinal Circulation: Once absorbed, substances travel through the bloodstream, reaching their target organs and systems.
• Importance of Dosage and Formulation: The potency and dosage of tinctures, as well as the specific formulation of plant compounds, influence the therapeutic effects, rather than the mode of administration.

Debunking the Sublingual Tincture Myth:

• Alcohol suspensions: Tinctures are alcohol suspensions, with the alcohol acting as the primary solvent for extracting plant compounds. When consumed orally, tinctures are easily absorbed through the epithelial cell lining of the esophagus and stomach, making sublingual administration unnecessary.
• Absorption mechanisms: The oral mucosa, including the sublingual area, is highly permeable, and absorption of alcohol and other constituents occurs rapidly regardless of the specific administration technique.

Potential Risks of Sublingual Tincture Use:

• Oral cancer risks: Regular consumption of hard alcohol has been associated with an increased risk of oral cancer. While tinctures may not contain significant quantities of alcohol, the potential risk is magnified for those who frequently use tinctures sublingually.
• Alcohol mouthwashes and oral cancer: Studies have linked alcohol-based mouthwashes to an increased risk of oral cancer. Similar to the risks associated with consuming hard alcohol, although tinctures are typically used in smaller quantities than mouthwashes, the potential risk is magnified for those who frequently use tinctures sublingually.

After conducting research on the matter, I no longer recommend taking sublingual tinctures. I suggest that you make an informed decision after considering both sides of the issue.

The Bioavailability of Phyto-Androgens:

As mentioned earlier, alcohol passes through the epithelial cell lining of the digestive tract. Proponents of sublingual administration of Pine Pollen Tincture claim that the phyto-androgens in Pine Pollen break down in the digestive tract, specifically in the small intestine. However, tinctures are absorbed through the epithelial cell lining of the mouth, esophagus, and stomach, not the small intestine.

Additionally, there is no evidence suggesting that the phyto-androgens in Pine Pollen are best or only absorbed sublingually. In fact, we receive numerous emails from people who have increased their testosterone levels (confirmed by lab analysis) using our RAW Pine Pollen™ Powder. This indicates that the androgen can be digested through the digestive tract.

The Take-A-Way:

The safest way to use tinctures is by diluting them in an ounce or two of water and drinking the mixture. There is no benefit to taking tinctures sublingually by holding them under the tongue, and it is irresponsible to advise people to do so. Tinctures can still be readily absorbed without damaging the sensitive sublingual tissue.

Tinctures are primarily alcohol suspensions that can easily absorb through the epithelial lining of the esophagus and stomach. They are particularly useful for people with poor digestion because they are alcohol extracts that can be directly absorbed into the system. There is no need to take them sublingually to maximize absorption for people with impaired digestion.

Understanding the basics of anatomy and absorption mechanisms helps dispel the notion that sublingual administration offers superior benefits. Moreover, considering the potential risks, such as oral cancer, associated with regular alcohol exposure, it is crucial to approach tincture consumption with informed decision-making and prioritize overall health and well-being.

Although the practice of using tinctures sublingually has gained popularity, it is not recommended. Advocates argue that sublingual administration results in superior absorption rates and faster effects, especially with Pine Pollen Tincture. However, taking Pine Pollen Tincture diluted in water is just as effective and safer.