While we have all heard of the beneficial properties of cannabidiol and other components of the hemp plant, you might have read that the lists of ingredients of most CBD tinctures contain MCT Oil as well. This middle-chain triglyceride is a saturated fat which can be easily absorbed by the body and acts as the perfect carrier for cannabidiol and terpenes.
The main reason for CBD companies to include MCT oils in their products is the fact that they provide high levels of bioavailability. Middle-chain triglycerides contain up to twelve atoms of carbon, which are absorbed almost entirely into the circulatory system and can be easily mixed with cannabidiol.
MCT is Much More Than a Carrier Oil
Although improving absorption is certainly the main goal when using MCT oil, this natural extract has many beneficial properties on its own. Instead of being transformed into body fat, middle-chain triglycerides are used as sources of energy. MCT oil has proven to be effective in regulating blood pressure, preventing neurological diseases and strengthening the immune system. Furthermore, just as CBD, MCT oil is a powerful antioxidant which can also help reduce the severity of inflammation.
Before it started being incorporated into CBD tinctures, MCT oil was primarily used as an aide to promote a healthy metabolism and substitute other harmful fats present in food. As it gives the body a boost of energy, it can enhance many of its functions and make you feel healthier in a natural way.
MCT oil is especially popular among people who engage in sports, as it is a natural source of energy that can mimic the effects of carbohydrates, speeding the transportation of calories in the human body. Including this natural extract in your daily life will increase your physical resistance without secondary effects. Furthermore, as it burns unhealthy fats and enhances the growth of muscles, it will make your workout routines feel and look more effective.
How is MCT Oil Produced?
If you have been researching about CBD and terpenes, you might be wondering if MCT oil comes from the same hemp plant. The answer is no! Middle-chain triglycerides are usually extracted from coconut or palm oil. MCT is simply a refined version of this extracts, containing only those strains which are most effective in providing energy and promoting weight loss.
While a lot of scientific processes happen for coconut oil to be isolated into MCT oil, the most important one is called “fractionation”. This involves separating the different fats present in coconut oil by heating it to the respective melting points of these fats. As long-chain fatty acids have higher melting points than capric and caprylic acids, they all become solid at different temperatures. MCT Oil contains none of the long-chain fatty acids of regular coconut oil.
How does MCT Oil Interact with CBD?
When CBD is extracted from the hemp plant, the result is an oily substance full of cannabinoids and terpenes. While this tincture can be consumed directly, its rate of absorption is not optimal, and a large part of its benefits do not make it through into the circulatory system.
However, as it is a fat-soluble liquid, cannabidiol can be mixed with other natural oils which have better absorption rates and can help CBD reach the circulatory system more effectively – these substances are often called “carrier oils”. MCT oil is therefore the perfect way to enhance the absorption of cannabidiol and make its effects appear faster and last longer.
Additionally, many of the natural benefits of CBD are shared with those of MCT oils. For instance, both substances are known to improve the cognitive functions of the brain and enhance concentration. Mixing these two natural extracts results in a powerful product able to deal with a wide range of health conditions.
Which is the Best Way to Consume MCT-Infused CBD Oil?
There is no doubt that sublingual administration is the best when it comes to hemp tinctures and fatty acids in general. Place a few drops under your tongue and keep the substance for one or two minutes before swallowing the rest. This is the most effective way to reach the circulatory system, making you feel the relaxing effects of cannabidiol within minutes.
However, while MCT is naturally tasteless, CBD has a bitter and earthy taste which is not liked by everyone. Many companies in the cannabidiol market infuse their tinctures with essential oils to enhance their flavour and allow for a tasty sublingual administration.
If you are still reluctant on this method, another option is to simply add a few drops of your MCT-infused CBD oil to your favourite drink or meal. Keep in mind that this way the tincture will have to travel through the whole digestive system before being finally absorbed by the body, so it will take longer for its effects to take place.
How can I Choose the Best MCD-CBD Oils?
The most important thing to consider before purchasing any CBD product is the reputation of the company and its growth, selection and extraction methods. The best businesses in the market are backed by certifications of quality, using only organic hemp and carefully selecting those strains with the best cannabinoid and terpene profiles. Make sure that CBD is extracted using clean methods such as CO2 or cold-pressing, as chemicals, heat and other artificial additives can hinder the effectiveness of cannabidiol.
Once you have chosen the right company, you must decide which concentration of CBD is the best for your needs. If you are suffering from intense chronic pain, higher concentrations will act faster and provide effective relief. However, if you need a general boost of energy or a treatment for anxiety and stress, concentrations of around 400mg to 600mg of CBD are optimal.
All MCT-infused CBD tinctures which contain THC levels below 0.3% are legal to be produced, sold and consumed across the entire territory of the United States, as they do not contain any of the psychoactive components commonly associated with cannabis.
