Do you know what carries CBD in CBD oil? MCT oil is the most common CBD carrier oil and for good reason, but what is it? Find out what makes MCT oil great.
The Benefits of MCT Oil: What You Need to Know
MCT oil is one of the most common carrier oils for CBD
MCT oil is a popular choice for many in the CBD industry, but what exactly makes it so special? You may not even know about this vital ingredient and why it's used in CBD oil. In this article we will discuss the benefits of MCT oil, what it is used for, and how it works with CBD. We'll also talk about other types of oil that can be used with CBD and why MCT oil remains the preferred carrier for many. By the end, you'll have a better understanding of why MCT oil is so valuable and how it can help you with your CBD needs.
What is MCT (Medium-chain triglycerides) oil
MCT stands for Medium Chain Triglycerides, a type of saturated fatty acid that is derived from coconut and palm oil. It is different from other types of oils in that it is easily absorbed into the bloodstream without being broken down by the body. To get MCT oil, an extraction process is used to extract the MCTs - typically the four common types are capric acid, caprylic acid, lauric acid and oleic acid.
Why you might want to try MCT oil
MCT oil is believed to have a variety of health benefits. It is thought that MCT oil can help promote weight loss by suppressing the appetite and helping the body to burn more fat. Research has suggested that MCT oil could lower calorie intake by releasing the 'fullness' hormone peptide 'YY' and leptin - what makes you feel full.
In addition, it may also improve cognitive function and help boost energy levels due to its ability to be quickly digested and absorbed into the bloodstream. Finally, it has been suggested that MCT oil can help manage diabetes, digestive problems and heart disease. Research is still somewhat limited regarding MCT's health benefits, but general findings seem promising.
How does MCT oil work with CBD
Having a good carrier oil is key for an effective CBD product, on its own our body doesn't know what to do with it! MCT oil is the perfect carrier for cannabinoids like CBD, as it absorbs faster into the bloodstream due to its smaller molecular size. This means that more of the CBD can be absorbed and used by the body.
Are there other types of oil that can be used with CBD?
MCT oil (extracted from coconuts) remains the go-to carrier oil for many in the CBD industry, however other types of oils such as hemp seed oil, olive oil and palm oil can also be used with CBD. Hemp seed is a natural option that provides added potential benefits, plus you would think it would be perfect for CBD oil, right? However, hemp seed oil isn't as ideal as MCT due to its molecular nature - it has less saturated fat meaning it can't carry as much CBD as MCT.
Olive and palm oils are both popular because they are widely available and relatively inexpensive, plus they pack a lot of antioxidants and vitamins. While olive oil is widely enjoyed for its health benefits, its large monosaturated fats are less than ideal for carrying CBD making it hard to absorb. And while palm oil can create the same MCT oil as coconuts that is great for CBD, it's less great for the environment.
What about side effects, is there anything to worry about?
MCT oil is generally considered safe with no major side effects experienced, however, it's still important to discuss any potential supplements with your healthcare professional first. There are some symptoms that could accompany its uses like bloating, gas, and diarrhoea so it's best to try it in small doses. While it's agreed that most people can tolerate 6 tablespoons of MCT oil a day, those using CBD should not worry as the amounts will be much less! Generally, when using CBD oil such as tinctures, you are likely to only consume around 1-2ml (a full pipette) a day. Still, if it's your first time then we advise you to start with a small amount first.
Let's wrap things up
When it comes to CBD oil, having the right carrier oil is essential for an effective product. MCT oil is the go-to choice for many like Cali Greens, as it absorbs into the bloodstream quickly, making it perfect for delivering CBD to where it needs to be. Plus, there are also reported health benefits associated with MCT oil that can be enjoyed on its own. While other carrier oils like hemp seed, olive and palm oils may be suitable alternatives, MCT oil stands out as the preferred choice.
