Have you ever waited over an hour for a cannabis brownie to kick in, only to be surprised by a wave of effects that feels completely different from what you expected? You are not alone. The problem with traditional edibles is that they must pass through the digestive system and liver, which is a long and unpredictable road.
There is a better way. By learning how to make cannabis MCT oil, you can create a versatile, fast-acting product that puts you back in control. Whether you are looking for a precise sublingual tincture to manage daily stress or a potent base for cannabis-infused recipes, this guide will walk you through every step. We will cover the science of why MCT oil is the ultimate partner for cannabis, the exact infusion process, and how to find your perfect dose. Let’s get started.
Why MCT Oil is the Gold Standard for Cannabis Infusions
Before we dive into the kitchen, it is crucial to understand why MCT oil has become the go-to choice for infusions, surpassing even butter or olive oil. This isn’t just a trend; it is backed by chemistry and tangible results.
The Science of Solubility and Stability
Cannabinoids like THC and CBD are “lipophilic,” meaning they love fat. They bind easily to lipids (fats). MCT (Medium-Chain Triglyceride) oil is derived from coconut oil and contains these specific fats. As Jay Denniston, a food scientist, explains, “Cannabis oil is extremely soluble…Fats like fats, allowing coconut oil and MCT oil to naturally dissolve into one another” . This creates a perfectly homogenous mixture, ensuring every drop is consistent.
Furthermore, cannabis MCT oil is prized for its shelf stability. Unlike oils high in unsaturated fats which can go rancid quickly, the low unsaturated fat content in MCT oil “reduces the possibility of oxidation that will lead to rancidity” . This means your homemade infusion will last significantly longer without losing potency or flavor.
Faster Absorption and Higher Bioavailability
Why do so many commercial tinctures, like those from Albemarle Cannabis Company, use organic fractionated coconut oil ? It is because of how our bodies process it. When you place cannabis MCT oil under your tongue (sublingually), it bypasses the digestive system and liver. The oil is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes in your mouth.
According to experts at GraniteLeaf, “Tinctures that absorb in the mouth take approximately 15-30 minutes to take effect” . This is dramatically faster than the 60-90 minutes (or more) required for traditional edibles. Recent studies on bioavailability confirm that formulations using carrier oils like MCT significantly improve the absorption of cannabinoids compared to other methods . For those seeking quick relief from anxiety, pain, or inflammation, this speed is a game-changer.
Step 1: Decarboxylation – The Non-Negotiable First Step
You cannot just drop raw cannabis flower into oil and expect to feel the effects. Raw cannabis contains THCA and CBDA, which are non-intoxicating acid forms. To unlock the psychoactive and therapeutic potential, you need to apply heat. This chemical reaction is called decarboxylation.
How to Decarb Your Flower
- Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). It is important to stay in this lower temperature range to avoid burning off valuable terpenes.
- Break up the cannabis flower into small, even pieces. Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes. The flower should turn a light golden-brown color. You will know it is done when it smells fragrant and looks slightly toasted.
Once decarbed, your cannabis is activated and ready to meet the MCT oil.
Step 2: The Infusion Process (Crockpot Method)
This is the heart of the operation. While there are high-tech methods like supercritical CO2 extraction used in industrial settings , the home cook can achieve professional-grade cannabis MCT oil using a simple crockpot water bath. This gentle method prevents burning and ensures a clean infusion.
Here is a reliable recipe adapted from expert infuser Emily Kyle .
Ingredients:
- 1 ounce (28 grams)Â decarbed cannabis flower
- 16 ounces (2 cups)Â MCT oil
- 1 teaspoon liquid sunflower lecithin (optional, but recommended for emulsification)
Equipment:
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- Pint-sized mason jars
- Digital thermometer
- Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
Instructions:
- Prepare the Water Bath: Fill your crockpot with water and heat it to 185°F. Place a clean towel at the bottom of the crockpot to prevent the jars from rattling or cracking.
- Combine Ingredients: Divide the MCT oil evenly between your mason jars. Add the decarbed cannabis and the optional sunflower lecithin. Stir well.
- Seal and Submerge: Wipe the jar rims, seal the lids “finger-tight” (do not overtighten), and carefully place the jars into the 185°F water bath. The water should cover the contents of the jars.
- Infuse: Let the jars sit in the crockpot for 4 hours. Maintain a temperature between 170°F and 190°F. You will see the oil change color as it pulls the cannabinoids from the plant material.
- Strain and Store: Carefully remove the jars and let them cool. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean container. Squeeze every last drop of oil from the plant pulp—it is pure gold! Store your finished cannabis MCT oil in an amber dropper bottle in a cool, dark place.
Finding Your Perfect Dose: Start Low and Go Slow
One of the biggest advantages of making your own cannabis MCT oil is the ability to control dosage. Commercial products, like the ACC 3000mg tincture, offer a known concentration . When making your own, you need to do a little math to find your perfect cannabis tincture dosage.
The Math Behind the Magic
A standard rule of thumb is that 1 gram of cannabis flower (at 10% THC) contains about 100mg of THC. If you infused 1 ounce (28 grams) into 16 ounces of oil, your entire batch contains roughly 2,800mg of THC. This means that 1 ounce of oil contains about 175mg of THC.
Dosing Guidelines:
- Microdose:Â 1-2.5 mg (perfect for focus and light relief)
- Standard Dose:Â 5-10 mg (great for relaxation and mild pain)
- Experienced Dose:Â 10-20 mg (for those with high tolerance or severe symptoms)
How to Use Your Tincture
For fast-acting relief, you will want to use it sublingually.
- Fill the dropper with your cannabis MCT oil.
- Place the desired number of drops under your tongue or between your cheek and gum .
- Hold it there for 60 to 90 seconds. This allows the oil to absorb directly into the bloodstream.
- Swallow the remainder.
If you hold it under your tongue, expect to feel the effects in 15-30 minutes. If you simply swallow it or mix it into a drink, it will act as a traditional edible, taking 45-90 minutes to kick in .
Creative Ways to Use Your Cannabis MCT Oil
Your cannabis MCT oil is not just a tincture; it is a culinary ingredient. Because MCT oil is liquid at room temperature, it blends seamlessly into cold and hot dishes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Morning Coffee or Tea:Â Stir a dropperful into your morning brew. The fats in the MCT oil help emulsify the drink, creating a creamy texture while delivering a focused, energizing high that is perfect for starting the day.
- Salad Dressings:Â Whisk your cannabis oil with some vinegar, Dijon mustard, and herbs for a potent vinaigrette.
- No-Bake Treats:Â Use it as the base for energy balls or cannabis-infused chocolate bark. Since you don’t need to heat it, you protect the delicate terpenes.
- Cooking:Â While you can cook with it, avoid high temperatures to preserve potency. Drizzle it over finished dishes like pasta or roasted vegetables.
A Word on Safety:
There is one rule you must never break: Do not vaporize or dab cannabis MCT oil. When heated to the high temperatures required for vaping, MCT oil can break down into compounds that are harmful to your lungs . Keep this oil for ingestion and topical use only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use something other than MCT oil?
Yes. While MCT is preferred for its bioavailability and shelf life, you can also use olive oil, avocado oil, or hemp seed oil . However, note that oils with high unsaturated fats may have a shorter shelf life .
2. How long does homemade cannabis MCT oil last?
When stored in a cool, dry place away from light, it can last for many months. It will last even longer if stored in the refrigerator or freezer . The stability of MCT oil helps preserve the cannabinoids.
3. Why do some recipes add sunflower lecithin?
Sunflower lecithin acts as an emulsifier. It helps bind the water-soluble and fat-soluble compounds, potentially improving absorption and potency . It also helps create a more uniform mixture.
4. How is this different from other edibles?
Unlike a brownie that must be digested, cannabis MCT oil used sublingually enters your bloodstream directly. This results in faster onset and more predictable effects, making it ideal for microdosing and precise therapeutic use .
5. Is it worth it to make my own instead of buying it?
Absolutely. Making your own cannabis-infused MCT oil gives you total control over the ingredients, potency, and cost. You can customize it with specific strains to target sleep, pain, or creativity, something that is hard to find in a standard retail product.
Conclusion: Your Journey to Better Relief Starts Now
Learning how to make cannabis MCT oil is one of the most rewarding skills for any cannabis enthusiast. It bridges the gap between the simplicity of smoking and the complexity of baking. You get a product that is fast-acting, long-lasting, and incredibly versatile.
From the science-backed benefits of increased bioaccessibility to the practical advantage of precise cannabis tincture dosage, this method puts the power back in your hands. Whether you are chasing relief from chronic pain or just looking for a cleaner, more controlled way to relax, this golden elixir is your answer.