MCT: Medium Chain Triglyceride

Medium chain triglyceride, also known as MCT, is a type of fat that is easily absorbed in the body.

MCT oil is commonly used as a carrier oil in medical cannabis oil as it has a stable shelf life and mixes well with cannabis extracts for accurate dosing.

At a glance: MCT and cannabis oil

What is a carrier oil and why cannabis oils need one

A carrier oil is the base oil that a cannabis extract is mixed into. It makes up the majority of what’s in a bottle of medical cannabis oil, with the extract mixed in. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD are fat-soluble so don’t mix with water, therefore an oil, like MCT, is used instead. 

The carrier oil dilutes the cannabinoid extract so that each millilitre contains a consistent amount, making it easier to have an accurate and steady dose. The extract placed in the carrier oil can differ in forms. A distillate extract is a highly refined extract that isolates one or a few cannabinoids while a full-spectrum extract keeps a broader range of the plant's compounds, including other cannabinoids and terpenes.

Why is MCT oil used in cannabis oil?

There are various factors as to why MCT oil is often the preferred carrier oil in medical cannabis. Medium chain triglycerides are made of three fatty acids connected to a glycerol backbone, each fatty acid has a “medium” length chain of carbon atoms, usually between 6 to 12. Because these chains are shorter, oils like MCTs need less bile to break down and go through the gut directly to the liver making them faster and easier to be absorbed than long chain fats. 

MCTs are also saturated fats, which means they won’t go rancid as quickly as other plant oils, giving products a stable shelf life. MCT is also neutral in flavour and runny in texture when left at room temperature, making it easy to measure in a dropper with no strong flavour. It mixes well with cannabis extracts, so the cannabinoids are spread evenly for consistent dosing.

MCT oil isn’t necessarily the best carrier oil for the absorption of cannabinoids. A 2023 study suggests long chain oils such as olive oil may help the body absorb a little more CBD.

MCT vs other carrier oils in medical cannabis

MCT isn’t the only carrier oil used in the production of cannabis medicines and each comes with their own list of pros and cons for patients.

• MCT oil - clear and almost tasteless, stays runny at room temperature and has a stable shelf life even without being refrigerated. It’s easily digested and mixes well with cannabinoids and may hold more terpenes than olive oil.

• Olive oil - mild flavour and can turn cloudy or thicken if stored at colder temperatures, it’s a long chain fat. A 2022 study in rats found olive oil gave the highest CBD levels of the six vegetable oils it tested.

• Hemp seed oil - comes from the seeds of the hemp plant which contains little to no THC or CBD, it has a nutty flavour rich in omega fats which makes it less stable and more likely to go rancid if not stored in a fridge.

• Sesame oil - can be used in some cannabis medicines like Epidyolex, it’s a long-chain fat with a mild flavour when refined. Sesame is one of the main allergens in the UK so isn’t suitable for those with a sesame allergy.

How to tell if your prescribed cannabis oil contains MCT

You can see if your medical cannabis product contains MCT by checking the product label or packaging for ingredients. MCTs are often listed as medium chain triglycerides or MCT oil.

You can also ask your prescribing specialist or check the certificate of analysis (COA), which comes with all medical cannabis products in the UK and lists all the ingredients, cannabinoid content and potential contaminants.

Side effects and who should take care with MCT in cannabis oils

MCT oils are generally well tolerated, but some patients may experience mild digestive upset at higher volumes such as stomach cramps or diarrhoea, so it may be a side effect you will want to discuss with your clinician. 

Those with liver conditions should speak to their clinician before consuming medical cannabis oil as well as people taking other medications as cannabis can interact with them.

Reach out to the Releaf Patient Support Team at support@releaf.co.uk if you notice any adverse effects after taking your medical cannabis oil. 

MCT in UK medical cannabis

MCT oils are often used in the UK for medical cannabis products. These are unlicensed cannabis-based products for medical use and are formulated to pharmaceutical standards, using Good Manufacturing Practices to ensure products are of a high standard and adhere to regulatory requirements.

Frequently asked questions about MCT in cannabis oil

Are CBD and MCT oil the same?

CBD and MCT oil are not the same, MCT oil contains no cannabinoids and is a type of fat made from coconut or palm kernel oil. MCT may be used as a carrier oil for CBD oil.

Why is CBD oil made with MCT oil?

CBD is fat-soluble so it needs to be dissolved in oil rather than water. MCT is a popular choice because it has a stable shelf life, no flavour and creates a consistent dose throughout the product.

Does MCT change how quickly medical cannabis oil works?

The type of carrier oil used in medical cannabis may affect how much is absorbed but there is little research in people. Your metabolism, weight, the product itself and whether you take it with food also plays a part in how fast cannabis oil takes to work.

What are the downsides of MCT in cannabis oil?

The most common downside of MCT oil is digestive upset, particularly when taken at higher volumes. Some animal studies also suggest it may not let the body absorb as many cannabinoids as long chain fat oils.

Who should avoid MCT-based cannabis oils?

Anyone with a coconut or palm allergy should check the source of the MCT oil as it is often made from these. Those with liver conditions or sensitive digestion should also check with their clinician if MCT is suitable for them.

What should you not mix with CBD oil? 

CBD oil can interact with medication such as blood thinners and anti-seizure medications. You should always notify your clinician regarding other medicines or supplements you take and if there are any changes to them.

How do I know if my cannabis oil contains MCT?

You can check the ingredient list on the label of your prescription; it usually reads as “medium chain triglycerides” or “MCT oil”. If you are unsure, you can reach out to your clinician who can confirm what carrier oil has been used.

To find out if you are eligible, try our free medical cannabis eligibility checker, it takes under 2 minutes to fill in.

Our medical cannabis glossary can also help you learn more about terms you may associate with medical cannabis. 

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