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    Home » Infusions and Extractions

    Easy Cannabis-Infused MCT Oil

    Published: Feb 16, 2021 · Modified: Nov 19, 2021 by Emily Kyle · This post may contain affiliate links, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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    How to Make Cannabis-Infused MCT Oil Pin

    This easy, step-by-step beginner's guide will teach you how to make cannabis-infused MCT oil at home. This oil infusion can be used as a sublingual tincture or a base for many cannabis-infused recipes.

    How to Make Cannabis-Infused MCT Oil
    Table of Contents show
    1) Features
    2) Why You Will Love This Recipe
    3) Ingredient Notes
    4) The Step-by-Step Process
    5) Storage Instructions
    6) Is This MCT Oil A 'Tincture'?
    7) MCT Oil vs Coconut Oil
    8) MCT Oil and Digestive Distress
    9) Frequently Asked Questions
    10) More Oil Recipes You Will Love
    11) How to Make Cannabis-Infused MCT Oil

    Features

    • Just 2 simple ingredients needed: cannabis flower & MCT oil.
    • No special equipment required! You just need a basic crockpot and some mason jars. (Check out this guide if you want to use an Instant Pot, instead.)
    • Dietary Features: vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free.

    Why You Will Love This Recipe

    Cannabis-infused MCT oil is a popular type of cannabis oil infusion made from 2 simple ingredients: cannabis flowers and MCT oil.

    MCT oil is a type of fat extracted from coconuts. They are rapidly digested and absorbed by the body.

    MCT oil remains liquid at room temperature, is completely clear, and has no flavor, making it one of the reasons it is so popular in my Well With Cannabis Community.

    Many members love this infusion can be used two ways, either sublingually (held under the tongue) and/or in edibles.

    In this guide, I will show you my super easy process for infusing MCT oil and talk about some important tips and tricks to help you on your cannabis journey.

    Looking For More Support?

    Join thousands of members inside my private Well With Cannabis Community to ask questions, find support, and share your edible creations!

    Ingredient Notes

    Ingredients collage featuring MCT oil, cannabis flowers, and lecithin
    • MCT Oil - a clear, tasteless oil. You can learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of MCT oil below. If needed, you can purchase MCT oil here.
    • Cannabis Flowers - You will need your desired amount of cannabis flowers, ranging from 3.5 grams up to 1 ounce. Choose THC, CBD, or CBG dominant flowers. You can purchase them from your local dispensary or purchase hemp flowers from my online shop here.
    • Lecithin, optional: If you're new to working with lecithin, you can learn more about adding lecithin to edibles here. If needed, you can purchase liquid lecithin or powdered lecithin. This ingredient is optional.

    Note: a complete list of ingredients with amounts and printable instructions is located in the recipe card below.

    The Step-by-Step Process

    4 step collage showing how to make cannabis-infused MCT Oil
    • Step 1 - The goal is to create a water bath that stays at approximately 180-190° F for the cooking process. The printable instructions in the recipe card below are for using a crockpot to create the water bath.
    • Step 2 - While the water bath is heating in the crockpot, measure and decarb the cannabis flower. Learn how to decarb in an oven or decarb in an Instant Pot.
    • Step 3 - Evenly divide the decarbed cannabis flower and MCT oil between the mason jars you plan on using. If you plan on using sunflower lecithin, add it to the mason jars now.
    • Step 4 - Carefully place the jars into the water bath. Then, place the lid on the crockpot and leave it alone to infuse for 4 hours. After 4 hours, remove the jars from the hot water and allow them to cool.
    4 step collage showing how to make cannabis-infused MCT Oil
    • Step 5 - Whether it be a paper filter and funnel, cheesecloth, French press, or a simple coffee filter, you will want to set up a straining station to separate the plant matter from the oil.
    • Step 6 - Once cool enough to handle, strain the prepared oil with your method of choice. You can save the leftover cannabis pulp for use in future recipes.
    • Step 7 - Return the prepared oil to whatever jar you would like to store it in; I use a small amber tincture dropper bottle.
    • Step 8 - Store the prepared oil in a cool, dry place. It will last longer if stored in the refrigerator and even longer if stored in the freezer.

    Note: complete step-by-step printable instructions are located in the recipe card below.

    Storage Instructions

    Store your prepared MCT oil in a cool, dry place. It will last longer if stored in the refrigerator and even longer if stored in the freezer.

    How to Make Cannabis-Infused MCT Oil

    Is This MCT Oil A 'Tincture'?

    I’ve seen lots of people, including those inside my cannabis community, fuss over the terminology of a tincture.

    Technically a tincture is an alcohol-based preparation, like this Green Drago alcohol tincture or a QWET alcohol tincture. That means this cannabis MCT oil will be considered an infusion.

    However, you’ll often see people refer to MCT oil as tinctures simply because they are oftentimes held under the tongue for sublingual application.

    This is the difference between holding an oil or tincture under your tongue vs. simply swallowing it. While the difference is small, the different effects can be quite noticeable from other application methods.

    Sublingual Use for MCT Oil

    Sublingual, meaning under the tongue, involves holding oil or tincture under your tongue to be absorbed by our mucous membranes into the body.

    There is a dense concentration of capillaries under the tongue and around the mouth, so products held in the mouth are delivered directly to the bloodstream, making sublingual administration quick and easy (2).

    Some people prefer this method due to the quick absorption rate and high bioavailability rate of around ~30%, producing a quicker, more effective absorption into the bloodstream. 

    For this application method, it is recommended to hold the oil or tincture under your tongue or inside your cheek for as long as possible for the best results and most efficient absorption.

    Many people like this method because the typical onset time starts fairly quickly, between 15-30 minutes. The typical duration time lasts for an average of 2-4 hours. 

    The cannabinoids in the oil or tincture are then absorbed into the bloodstream and circulate throughout the whole body. 

    This method bypasses digestion and the first-pass metabolism in the liver, unlike cannabis edibles.

    Edible Use of MCT Oil

    Unlike sublingual absorption, edible consumption is a bit more complicated.

    Edibles, also known as oral cannabis consumption, involve eating cannabis that is then processed through the gastrointestinal tract.

    You can consume cannabis orally in many forms, including capsules, tinctures, oils, brownies, cookies, coffee, tea, and even spice mixes.

    This is because the ingested cannabinoids pass through the digestive system.

    Once the cannabis is eaten and digested, the THC is absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the liver, where it undergoes the hepatic first-pass metabolism. 

    During this process, enzymes hydroxylate THC (Δ9-THC) to form 11-hydroxytetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC), a potent psychoactive metabolite that readily crosses the blood-brain barrier (3).

    This means that eating cannabis can provide stronger, more potent, or intoxicating effects in some individuals. 

    There are even anecdotal reports of people experiencing hallucinogenic effects when too much THC has been consumed. 

    This potent intoxicating metabolite, 11-OH-THC, causes potentially unwanted (or wanted) side effects for many unknowing cannabis consumers.

    This is why with edibles, it is so important to be careful of accidental excess cannabis intake by overeating.

    MCT Oil vs Coconut Oil

    It is important to note some differences between MCT oil and coconut oil, primarily when baking or used in recipes.

    While both are derived from coconuts, there is a noticeable taste and texture difference.

    Coconut OilMCT Oil
    Derived from CoconutDerived from Coconut
    Solid at room temperatureLiquid at room temperature
    Opaque when solidRemains clear
    Refined has no flavor, unrefined has a slight coconut flavorHas no flavor
    Easy to substitute in baked goodsNot as easy to substitute in baked goods
    Not great for sublingual applicationGreat for sublingual applications
    May cause digestive distress in large amountsMay cause digestive distress in large amounts
    High smoke point, 350° F, great for cookingLow smoke point, 284° F, not good for cooking
    How to Make Cannabis-Infused MCT Oil

    MCT Oil and Digestive Distress

    One important thing to note is that MCT oil in large amounts may cause digestive distress in some individuals.

    Many members of my cannabis community have reported that consuming too much MCT oil, either in an edible or sublingually, causes digestive problems.

    MCT oil can cause significant gastrointestinal distress, such as diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, and cramping, because it is metabolized differently by the body.

    Additionally, it is not recommended for individuals who have liver problems.

    That is why it is important to start low and go slow, just like all things cannabis, that way, you can see how your body reacts.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Below are some of the most frequently asked questions I receive in my Well With Cannabis Community about making infused MCT oil at home.

    Can I make infused MCT oil with FECO?

    Yes, if you want a stronger, more potent infusion, you can make this MCT oil infusion with FECO. Follow the directions for making FECO here, including directions for mixing with MCT oil after cooking. You can also make infused MCT oil with other types of cannabis concentrates.

    Can I make a smaller batch?

    You may want to consider making a small test batch before making a larger batch. This recipe calls for 1 ounce of flower and 16 ounces of MCT oil, which will yield a large batch. If you want to make a smaller batch first to see if MCT oil infusions are right for you, use this cannabis flower to oil ratio guide.

    How to Determine The Dosing

    Want to get a more accurate guesstimate of the potency of your cannabis infusions and extractions? Try our popular edibles calculator!

    Not sure what your perfect dose is? Learn more here.

    Want To Make This Easier? Use A Machine!

    If the process of decarbing and infusing feels like too much work, an all-in-one countertop device may be a perfect all-in-one solution!

    My personal favorite? The Ardent FX! Review the six most popular infusion machines here.

    Want A Discount Code?

    • Use the code EMILY30 for $30 off your Ardent order!

    More Oil Recipes You Will Love

    • Easy Crockpot Cannabis Coconut Oil
    • How to Make CBD Oil At Home
    • Easy Crockpot Cannabis Olive Oil Recipe
    • How to Make AVB Edibles with Already Vaped Bud
    Edibles made easy course mockup

    My Edibles Made Easy Online Cooking Course will teach you how to make cannabis edibles and topical recipes at home with ease. This step-by-step video course will teach you how to infuse, extract, and create edibles with many different product types - all from the comfort of your own home.

    Learn more and enroll today →

    Cannabis-Infused MCT Oil

    How to Make Cannabis-Infused MCT Oil

    Author: Emily Kyle, MS, RDN, HCP
    4.83 from 56 votes
    This easy, step-by-step beginner's guide will teach you how to make cannabis-infused MCT oil at home. It can be used as a sublingual tincture or a base for many cannabis-infused recipes.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save RecipeSaved Recipe!
    Prep Time 30 mins
    Cook Time 4 hrs
    Total Time 4 hrs 30 mins
    CourseInfusion
    CuisineCannabis Recipe
    Servings 16 ounces
    Calories 120 kcal

    Equipment

    • Slow Cooker or Crockpot
    • Pint Mason Jars

    Ingredients
      

    • 16 ounces MCT oil
    • 1 ounce decarbed cannabis flower
    • 1 teaspoon liquid sunflower lecithin

    Instructions
     

    • Lay a clean tea towel down on the bottom of the crockpot. This will create a buffer between your mason jars and the crockpot, potentially preventing any jar moving or cracking during cooking.
    • Fill your crockpot with enough warm to hot water to cover the top of the mason jars you plan on using by an inch to create a water bath.
    • Place the digital thermometer into the water. Start the crockpot heat on high. When a temperature of 185° F is reached, turn the crockpot to low.digital thermometer
    • While the water bath is heating in the crockpot, measure and decarb the cannabis flower. Click here for a full cannabis decarboxylation tutorial, if needed.
    • Evenly divide the MCT oil between the mason jars you plan on using. You can either use pint-sized or half-pint-sized jars, it’s you’re preference, just be sure they fit in your crockpot. No matter the size, be sure to leave a ½ inch headspace from the top.
    • If you plan on using sunflower lecithin, add it to the mason jars now.
    • Evenly divide the decarbed flower between the MCT oil filled jars. Stir well. Wipe the rim of the jars with a clean paper towel and place the lid on. Tighten the metal ring to finger-tip tightness, it does not have to be tightened all the way. Do not tighten too tightly.
    • Once the water bath reaches a temperature of 185° F, carefully place the jars into the water bath.
    • Place the lid on the crockpot and leave it alone to infuse for 4 hours.
    • After 4 hours, carefully remove the lid, followed by the jars from the hot water. Set them aside to cool.
    • Once cool enough to handle, you will want to strain the MCT oil through a paper filter and funnel, cheesecloth, or French press to separate the plant matter from the oil.
    • Save the leftover cannabis pulp for use in future recipes. Then return the prepared cannabis oil to whatever jar you would like to store it in. We use a small amber tincture jar.
    • Store the prepared cannabis MCT oil in a cool, dry place. It will last longer if stored in the refrigerator and even longer if stored in the freezer.

    Notes

    • Yield: ~16 ounces / ~2 cups
    • Temperature Control: The water bath does not need to stat perfectly at 185° F  the entire time. Any temperature between 170°-190°F is OK.
    • Safety First: I recommend you sanitize your jars by keeping them submerged in the 185° F crockpot for 10 at least minutes. This step is not necessary, but good practice for safety and hygiene.
    • Floating Jars: Sometimes the mason jar will float when placed in the water bath. This is no need for concern, simply put something heat and water safe over the top of the jar to weigh it down, a clean rock works well.
    • Alternative Carrier Oil Options Include:
      • Olive oil
      • Avocado oil
      • Hemp seed oil
      • Grapeseed oil
      • Coconut oil

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1gCalories: 120kcalFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1g
    Did you make this recipe or have a question?Join hundreds of members inside private Well With Cannabis Community for help, support, and to share your edible creations!

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    Comments

    1. Linda

      April 30, 2022 at 7:13 am

      5 stars
      Hi Emily, made your cookies and they were great!, I bought your 2oz MCT oil to make the store bought gummies. I am confused on how much flower to use when decarbing ?

    2. Emily Kyle

      April 30, 2022 at 8:45 am

      Hello Linda! I am so glad you enjoyed the cookies. You can use my Flower to Oil Ratio Guide to help you decide how much flower you want to add to your infusion 🙂

    3. Anna

      May 05, 2022 at 5:25 pm

      How do I determine how much Feco to fuse with mct oil?

    4. Emily Kyle

      May 07, 2022 at 10:20 am

      Hi there, Anna. You would want to take your personal needs and tolerance level into consideration and go from there. The more oil you add, the more diluted and less potent the infusion becomes. For example, if you had 1mL of FECO with 750mg THC and added it to 30mL of MCT oil (a standard bottle size) you would divide 750mg/31mL to get around 24mg of THC per 1mL dopperful. If you doubled the amount of oil to 60mL, it would decrease the dose to around 12mg of THC per 1mL dropper. I hope this helps.

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