MCT oil, derived from coconut or palm, is considered a "smart" carrier for cannabidiol (CBD) as it enhances absorption and amplifies its benefits. But as with any other CBD product, effectiveness will depend on the quality of the active ingredients and the proportions used. This short article covers the key points to keep in mind to get it right.
Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) are fatty acids found in coconut oil and palm oil. It is often reported that they boost energy and support an increase in brain power. It is a clear liquid with no smell and is often added to food or coffee (also called Keto or Bulletproof Coffee) and smoothies. MCT oil is a general term for several different oils, including caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid and lauric acid. Each has varying effects and is found in different amounts in MCT oil.
Most MCTs get their reputation and quick effects from bypassing the digestive tract and going straight to the liver to be broken down. They quickly become high-energy ketones and are transported to the bloodstream. This quick action makes them a source of fast energy and a useful delivery method for other substances, such as CBD, which can be broken down in the digestive tract.
Some studies have observed a link between a diet rich in MCTs and weight loss. They appear to have links to good gut health and can modify the gut microbiota to support metabolic processes. At the same time, they are both antifungal and antimicrobial, which keeps your digestive system healthy. MCTs have considerable potential for gut health and weight loss and provide a quick source of energy that can reach your cells faster than other forms.
The amount of MCT consumed when taking CBD oil is minimal. A few drops of MCT oil are not going to provide these same health benefits. However, CBD and MCT as combo provide their own set of benefits, which we will be exploring below.
While palm-derived MCTs dominate cheaper products, coconut-sourced oils are rising in popularity due to ethical concerns.
MCTs are found naturally in coconut oil, which is processed differently by the body compared to long-chain fats. Coconut farms generally avoid the deforestation issues linked to palm oil production, making them a greener choice for the majority of us.
Coconut oil is packed full of beneficial oils, 62% of which are MCTs. However, of that percentage, a large majority is lauric acid. While lauric acid is beneficial it does not behave like other MCTs and can be broken down in your digestive tract instead of the liver.
Coconut oil is a great choice and can work well in many diets. However, if you want the benefits associated with MCT oil, it is best not to buy coconut oil as a carrier for CBD oil. Choose a high-quality MCT oil instead (see below).
When taking CBD, bioavailability is key. Bioavailability refers to the amount of active ingredients that will reach your bloodstream and can be used by the body.
When CBD is ingested with traditional carrier oils like hemp seed oil or olive oil, it must first pass through the digestive system. This slows absorption and results in much of the CBD being broken down before reaching the liver, meaning only 6% to 20% becomes available in the bloodstream, often taking up to two hours to take effect.
Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) work differently. MCT oil bypasses the standard digestive process and is absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the portal vein. This allows its partner CBD to reach the liver immediately, where it is rapidly metabolised into its active form, increasing absorption and effectiveness.
A 2020 study suggests that MCTs help preserve delicate active ingredients, such as myrcene, during digestion, ensuring the full spectrum of CBD’s benefits remains intact.
This direct liver metabolism ensures that more CBD becomes available for use compared to traditional digestion-based absorption. Beyond improving CBD uptake, recent studies suggest MCT oil may also enhance CBD’s entourage effect, the synergistic interaction between cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds.
By acting as an efficient carrier, MCT oil not only allows CBD to be absorbed more quickly and in higher amounts but also protects and enhances the potential of all of its active compounds.
For those choosing an MCT and CBD blend, lab reports are non-negotiable.
Reputable brands now publish certificates of analysis (CoAs) to verify both CBD potency and MCT purity.
Look for products that use over 90% caprylic (C8) and capric (C10) acids in their MCT oil. This ensures the oil skips digestion efficiently, maximising CBD’s journey to your bloodstream.
Greenleaf's Signature collection features two products made with pure caprylic acid (C8) and full spectrum CBD, CBG and CBC. No other ingredients are added, making this the highest quality MCT + cannabinoid formula available in the UK. On For the Ageless, lab reports are always available under the ingredients tab for each product.
MCT oil is a source of healthy fats that can build your energy and maintain your gut health. When combined with CBD, the key benefit is enhanced bioavailability of CBD. MCT has the capacity to speed up and enhance the benefits of CBD oil, especially when you choose a full-spectrum formula.
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Tom Russell
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Tom Russell writes extensively about CBD oil and other groundbreaking food supplements. He and his wife share their home with two daughters and a lifetime’s collection of books.