Are you ready to make your own cannabis-infused oil? You’re in the right place if you want something easy and effective. This step-by-step beginner’s guide will teach you how to make cannabis-infused MCT oil at home. Once made, this oil is versatile and can be used as a sublingual oil or a base for many cannabis-infused recipes and topical preparations.
Table of Contents
Article Features
- Just two ingredients: cannabis flowers & MCT oil
- No special equipment – just a crockpot and mason jars
- Want to make it easy? Skip the hard work, order my Bliss MCT Oil, and have it delivered straight to your door – now shipping across the United States!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Cannabis-infused MCT oil is a popular type of oil infusion made with two 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 that this infusion can be used either sublingually held under the tongue or in homemade 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.
And, if this all seems like too much work, you can purchase my Bliss MCT Oil and have it shipped directly to your door 😊
What You’ll Need
- MCT oil – a clear, tasteless oil. You can learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of MCT oil below. You can purchase MCT oil here.
- Cannabis flowers – You will need your desired amount of cannabis flowers, ranging from 3.5 grams to 1 ounce. You can purchase hemp flowers from my online shop.
- Lecithin, optional: If you’re new to working with lecithin, you can learn more about adding lecithin to edibles. If needed, you can purchase liquid or powdered. This ingredient is optional.
Note: A complete list of ingredients with amounts and printable instructions is located on the recipe card below.
The Step-by-Step Process
- 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, leave the lid on the crockpot alone to infuse for 4 hours. After 4 hours, remove the jars from the hot water and allow them to cool.
- 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 future recipes.
- Step 7 – Return the prepared oil to whatever jar you want 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 printable 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.
Learn more about how to properly store edibles and tinctures here.
Is MCT Oil a Tincture?
I’ve seen many people, including those inside my cannabis community, fuss over the terminology of a tincture.
Technically, a tincture is an alcohol-based preparation, like the Green Dragon or a QWET tincture.
Because it is not made with alcohol, this cannabis MCT oil preparation is considered an infusion, not a tincture.
However, you’ll often see people refer to MCT oil as tinctures simply because they are oftentimes held under the tongue for sublingual application.
It is important to note that there is a difference in effect between holding a tincture under your tongue vs. simply swallowing it.
While the difference is small, the effects can be quite noticeable from other application methods.
Sublingual Use for MCT Oil
Sublingual simply means under the tongue.
This method involves holding oil or tincture under your tongue so your mucous membranes can absorb it.
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 bloodstream1.
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.
Edible Use of MCT Oil
You can consume edibles in many different forms, including:
Eating cannabis is a bit more complicated than simply placing it under the tongue.
This is because the cannabinoids we ingest pass through our digestive system.
During digestion, THC is absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the liver, where it undergoes the hepatic first-pass metabolism.
This process converts THC into a different form, now 11-OH-THC, a potent psychoactive metabolite that easily crosses the blood-brain barrier2.
This explains why eating cannabis can provide stronger, more potent, or intoxicating effects for many people.
This is why it is so important to follow the golden dosing rule: start low and go slow.
MCT Oil vs. Coconut Oil
It is important to note there are some differences between MCT oil and coconut oil.
You will notice this primarily when baking or using oil in recipes.
While both are derived from coconuts, there is a noticeable taste and texture difference between the two.
Coconut Oil vs.
- Refined has no flavor, and unrefined has a slight coconut flavor
- Solid at room temperature
- Opaque when solid
- Refined has no flavor, and unrefined has a slight coconut flavor
- Easy to substitute in baked goods
- Not great for sublingual application
- May cause digestive distress in large amounts
- High smoke point, 350° F, great for cooking
MCT Oil
- Derived from coconut
- Liquid at room temperature
- Remains clear
- Has no flavor
- Not as easy to substitute in baked goods
- Great for sublingual applications
- May cause digestive distress in large amounts
- Low smoke point, 284° F, not good for cooking
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 may cause 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.
How to Make Cannabis-Infused MCT Oil
Ingredients
- 16 ounces MCT oil
- 1 ounce decarbed cannabis flower
- 1 teaspoon liquid sunflower lecithin
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions
You can use my free edible dosage calculator to get a guestimate of how potent your MCT oil infusion will be. You can use my dosing guide from there to know how much to take. If you’re new to cannabis, consider starting with a microdose option.
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.
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.
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Hey, what an awesome detailed guide!
Only thing I was left wondering is, couldn’t you just as well do the infusion in the oven between 170°-190°F?
Hi M-P! We’re glad you found the guide helpful! While it is technically possible to do the infusion in an oven, there are a few reasons we suggest using a method like a slow cooker.
Firstly, controlling the temperature in an oven can be a bit tricky and can often fluctuate. Ovens do not distribute heat as evenly as a slow cooker, potentially leading to hot spots that could degrade the cannabinoids and terpenes in your cannabis, reducing its potency and altering its effects.
Secondly, using a slow cooker allows for more consistent and precise temperature control, which is key for making a successful infusion. The crockpot water bath helps prevent the oil from getting too hot and scorching the cannabis.
However, if you prefer using an oven and can ensure a steady, controlled temperature, it could work. Just keep a close eye on it to make sure the oil doesn’t get too hot. I hope this helps! Happy infusing!
Hi Emily!
Thanks for the great step by step instructions. I’ve make my MCT oil cannabis infusion and I’m wondering how to add some flavor to it. Can I add some honey, maybe some orange or lemon rind or both to enhance the flavor? I see in a previous comment, someone asked about mint leaves (great idea!). I have already strained my infusion and am storing it in the fridge. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance. Amy
Hi Amy. Your idea to add honey, orange rind, or lemon rind to your infusion sounds absolutely delightful! You’re on the right track with those suggestions. Honey is a great natural sweetener and the citrusy kick from the orange or lemon rind could also provide a nice twist. If you want to go ahead with this, gently warm up a portion of your infusion (not all of it, just in case you want to experiment with other flavors later!). Then, stir in a bit of honey and some grated citrus rind. Let it infuse for a while, then strain off any solids. Same can be done with mint leaves.
Another option could be to experiment with essential oils like peppermint or lavender, but please ensure that any essential oils you use are food-grade and safe for consumption.
Just remember to add flavors gradually, tasting as you go along until you achieve your desired flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things!
Hello, I have tried this recipe with MCT several times (including lecithin) and am having a challenge with absorption. No matter what I do, the onset time is 2-3 hours with every batch I’ve made, which means it’s being metabolized via the digestive system (after swallowing) and not sublingually. I’ve held it under my tongue for up to 5-minutes and onset is still 2-3 hours. This is a problem because I use this at bed time and need faster onset. Ingesting yields a 12-hour experience, which complicates getting up and going to work.
I am using fresh product each time with a LEVO II machine. What can I do to improve onset time?
Thanks!!
Hi Doug. I understand your frustration with the delayed onset time and the need for faster absorption, especially when using it at bedtime. Are you using lecithin when infusing? Lecithin has been known to improve the bioavailability of cannabinoids. It aids in the absorption process by enhancing the delivery of substances into the body’s cells. Here are a few suggestions to potentially improve the onset time:
Emulsification: Emulsifying MCTs, such as using a blender or emulsifier, can enhance their absorption rate. Emulsification helps break down the MCTs into smaller particles, increasing their surface area and potentially improving their bioavailability.
Try adjusting the dosage: Consider experimenting with different dosages to find the amount that works best for you. Sometimes a smaller or larger dose can make a difference in the effects and onset time.
Consider incorporating other ingredients: Apart from lecithin, there are other natural ingredients that have been reported to enhance bioavailability or absorption, like black pepper extract (piperine).
I hope these suggestions help improve the onset time for you. Wishing you a more enjoyable and efficient experience!
Hey Emily, looking forward to making this! Would you recommend using the same amount if I’m using ABV cannabis? I’ve read some places that it’s less potent and should still be decarbed, but I have a lot to use up so if I can just increase the quantity instead to get to that same potency, I’d rather be lazy and skip decarbing!
Hi Kaz. It’s a guesstimate to assume that anywhere between 10-30% of the remaining cannabinoids could be leftover and decarboxylation is not required. For AVB edibles, it truly is a guess, and as always, we recommend starting low and going slow when taste-testing to assess for potency.
Hello. I have not yet tried to make this. I’ve given it 5 stars because I don’t not want to give it a rating.
I’m just wondering:
1. Should I break up (with end of wooden spoon) or grind the decarbed cannabis before combining it with the oil?
2. Should I pierce a very small hole in the jar lid to equalise pressure for when the jar is in the water bath?
Hello Andrew! For the best results, we advise breaking the cannabis into popcorn-sized buds before combining it with the oil. However, we do not recommend grinding it, as this can introduce more plant matter into the oil and result in an unpleasant flavor. When sealing the jar, it should only be hand tight, and there is no need for a hole in the lid. You can rest assured that pressure will not build up during the slow cooking process. I hope this helps!