How to Make Cannabis MCT Oil: The Ultimate Guide to Fast-Acting Infusions

February 16, 2026

Have you ever waited over an hour for a cannabis brownie to kick in, only to be caught off guard hours later by a wave of sleepiness? You are not alone. Traditional edibles, bound to butter or olive oil, must be broken down by the liver, leading to delayed and often unpredictable effects.

Enter cannabis MCT oil. This golden elixir is changing the game for home cooks and medical patients alike. By using Medium-Chain Triglyceride (MCT) oil as your base, you create an infusion that is not only more efficient to make but also faster-acting and more stable than traditional alternatives.

In this guide, we will walk you through the precise, step-by-step process of how to make cannabis MCT oil. We will dive deep into the science of decarboxylation, compare carrier oils, and ensure your final product is potent, professional-grade, and ready to elevate your edible experience.

What Is Cannabis MCT Oil?

At its core, cannabis MCT oil is a simple, two-ingredient product: cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) extracted or infused into Medium-Chain Triglyceride (MCT) oil. Think of it as a customizable, highly bioavailable tincture base.

Unlike traditional alcohol-based tinctures, which can be harsh on the palate, MCT oil is smooth, odorless, and tasteless. Because cannabis compounds are fat-soluble, they bind effortlessly to the fatty acids in the MCT. The result is a versatile oil you can take sublingually (under the tongue) for fast absorption, drizzle over food, or encapsulate for precise dosing. Have you ever noticed how professional dispensary tinctures feel light and don’t separate? That’s the power of a high-quality MCT carrier.

Why Use MCT Oil Instead of Coconut or Olive Oil?

If you’ve done any research on infusions, you’ve likely seen recipes calling for coconut or olive oil. So, why should you specifically source MCT? The answer lies in chemistry and biology.

MCT oil is a concentrated form of the fats found in coconut oil. While coconut oil is about 50-60% MCTs, pure MCT oil isolates these specific fatty acids (primarily Caprylic acid C8 and Capric acid C10) . This distinction is crucial for two reasons:

Superior Bioavailability: Medium-chain triglycerides are smaller than the long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) found in olive oil. They bypass the typical lymphatic digestion process and go straight to the liver. This means the cannabinoids hit your system faster and with greater potency . One study confirmed that using MCT as a carrier oil significantly impacts the bioaccessibility of compounds like CBD .
Shelf Stability: MCT oil is extremely resistant to rancidity. Olive oil, high in unsaturated fats, can oxidize and go bad quickly. MCT oil’s low unsaturated fat content means your infusion will stay fresh for months, especially if stored properly .

If you are infusing for health reasons, the combination is synergistic. MCTs are known for their cognitive benefits and are often studied for their role in brain health, making them a perfect match for the neuroprotective properties of cannabinoids .

Why MCT Oil is the Superior Choice for Cannabis Infusions

Before we jump into the kitchen, it is crucial to understand why MCT oil has become the gold standard in the industry. The science behind the carrier oil is just as important as the cannabis you put into it.

MCTs, or medium-chain triglycerides, are fats extracted from coconut oil. Unlike the long-chain fats found in olive oil or butter, MCTs require less work for your body to break down.

The Liver Bypass Effect

When you consume a traditional edible, the liver must metabolize the fats before the cannabinoids (THC, CBD) can enter your bloodstream. However, MCT oil is different. Research indicates that MCT oil is a more suitable lipid source compared to olive oil for medical cannabis preparations due to its superior extraction capabilities and stability . Because MCTs are smaller, they are absorbed directly from the gut into the portal vein, bypassing much of the lymphatic system and heading straight to the liver. This results in faster onset times.

Superior Preservation of Terpenes and Cannabinoids

One of the biggest challenges in making cannabis oil is preserving the delicate compounds that give cannabis its unique effects and flavors. According to comparative studies, MCT oil displays the strongest extraction capacity and conservation trend of volatile compounds. While terpenes degrade quickly in olive oil, they remained stable throughout the entire storage period in MCT formulations .

Have you ever opened a bottle of old olive oil infusion and smelled something funky? You were likely smelling oxidation. MCT oil is known to have the longest shelf life among carrier oils, keeping your infusion fresh and potent for extended periods .

Risks and Considerations When Making Cannabis MCT Oil

Before we jump into the kitchen, we have to address safety. Making your own infusions is rewarding, but it comes with serious responsibilities.

First, dosage accuracy is paramount. Homemade oils can vary wildly in potency. If you use high-THC flower, a teaspoon of this oil is significantly stronger than a teaspoon of standard cooking oil. Always start with a low dose (think rice-grain size) and wait at least two hours before considering more .
Second, there is a critical safety warning: DO NOT VAPE this oil. MCT oil is excellent for ingestion, but when heated to vaping temperatures, it can decompose into compounds that are harmful to the lungs . This recipe is strictly for edibles and sublingual use.
Finally, be aware of your local regulations regarding cannabis extraction and infusion. Always source your cannabis from a legal, licensed provider.

Equipment Needed

To ensure a smooth process, gather your tools beforehand. Using the right equipment prevents accidents and maximizes potency.

Slow Cooker (Crockpot) or Precision Hot Plate: For creating a consistent low-temperature water bath.
Glass Mason Jars (Pint or Half-Pint): For decarbing and infusing. Glass is inert and won’t leach chemicals.
Kitchen Scale (0.1g accuracy): Essential for calculating dosage.
Digital Thermometer: To monitor water temperature (target 185°F / 85°C).
Cheesecloth or Fine Mesh Strainer: For filtering out plant material.
Amber Glass Dropper Bottles: For storing your finished oil away from light .
Turkey Baster or Syringe: For transferring oil without spilling.

Ingredients

Quality in equals quality out. Here is what you need for a standard batch:

1 ounce (28 grams) of decarboxylated cannabis flower: You can use fresh flower or even trim/shake. The potency of your flower dictates the potency of your oil.
16 ounces (approx. 500ml) of MCT Oil: Look for brands derived from non-GMO coconuts. For the healthiest option, seek out C8 (Caprylic Acid) dominant MCT oil, as it is the most efficient at producing ketones and carrying cannabinoids .
1 teaspoon of liquid sunflower lecithin (optional): This acts as an emulsifier, helping the oil and any water-based components mix, and may further improve absorption .

How to Make Cannabis MCT Oil: Step-by-Step Recipe

This recipe utilizes a controlled water bath (sous-vide style) to prevent burning the delicate cannabinoids. High heat is the enemy of potency. We must treat this process with the care of a chemist rather than a chef .

Step 1: Decarboxylation

You cannot skip this step. Raw cannabis contains THCA and CBDA, which are non-psychoactive. To activate the compounds that provide the effects we seek, you must apply heat—a process called decarboxylation.

Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C).
Break your cannabis buds into small, even pieces (like grains of rice). Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring gently halfway through. The material should turn a light, toasty brown and smell fragrant.
Pro Tip: To contain the smell and preserve terpenes, you can seal the cannabis in a mason jar while decarbing, though this may extend the time slightly.

Step 2: Infusing the MCT Oil

Now, we unite the activated cannabis with the carrier oil.

Fill your slow cooker with water and preheat it to 185°F (85°C). Place a small towel at the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent the jars from rattling .
Place your decarbed cannabis into the mason jars and cover with the MCT oil. Seal the jars tightly (finger-tip tight—do not overtighten).
Submerge the jars in the water bath. The water should come about an inch above the oil level.
Let it infuse for 4 hours. Stir the jars gently (by swirling, not shaking) every hour. Keeping the temperature steady between 170°F and 190°F ensures you extract the maximum cannabinoids without degrading them .

Step 3: Straining the Oil

Once the time is up, carefully remove the hot jars and let them cool until safe to handle.

Set up your funnel lined with cheesecloth over a large measuring cup or bowl.
Pour the oil mixture through the filter. Let it drain naturally; do not squeeze the cheesecloth, as squeezing can push unwanted chlorophyll (which tastes bitter) into your oil.
For a cleaner product, you can run it through a coffee filter or a fine mesh strainer a second time .

Step 4: Storage

Transfer the strained green/golden oil into your amber glass dropper bottles.

Label everything! Write the date and estimated potency on the bottle.
Store in a cool, dark place. While MCT oil is stable, cannabinoids degrade with light and heat. For maximum longevity (up to a year), store it in the refrigerator . If refrigerated, it might thicken slightly, but it will liquefy again at room temperature.

Understanding Dosage

This is where home infusion gets tricky. Without a lab, we rely on math. To find the potency per milliliter, use this formula:
(Total mg of cannabinoids in flower) / (Total ml of oil used) = mg/ml

Example:

If your cannabis has 15% THC, that means 1 gram of flower contains 150mg of THC.
You used 28 grams (your ounce). 28 x 150mg = 4,200mg total THC in the flower.
Note: Decarboxylation isn’t 100% efficient. You might lose about 10-15% of that. Let’s assume you have 3,600mg left.
You used 500ml of MCT oil.
3600mg / 500ml = 7.2mg of THC per 1ml of oil.

A standard dropper is usually 1ml. For a beginner, 2.5mg to 5mg is a standard starting dose. In this case, you would only want to take half a dropper or less. Have you calculated the potency of your starting material yet? If not, assume it is strong and start very slow .

Step-by-Step: How to Make Cannabis MCT Oil

Now, let’s get to the process. Making cannabis MCT oil at home gives you total control over potency, quality, and cost. The process involves three critical phases: Decarboxylation, Infusion, and Straining.

Phase 1: Decarboxylation – Unlocking the Potential

If you consume raw cannabis flower, you won’t get high. This is because the cannabinoids exist in their “acidic” forms (THCA, CBDA), which are not psychoactive. To activate them, you need to apply heat—a process called decarboxylation.

Can You Decarb Cannabis in MCT Oil?

This is a common question, and the answer is nuanced. Technically, you can combine the steps, but it is not recommended for precision. A forum user trying this “one-pot” method voiced concerns about messing up expensive ingredients, and experienced members advised sticking to a separate decarb step for consistency .

The Problem: Decarboxylation requires temperatures around 220-250°F (104-121°C) to convert THCA to THC efficiently. While MCT oil has a high smoke point (around 320°F), prolonged high heat can degrade the delicate cannabinoids you just activated and potentially impact the oil’s flavor.

The Solution: Always decarb your flower separately. This ensures a complete and even activation, guaranteeing your final cannabis MCT oil is as potent as possible.

How to Decarb Your Flower:

Preheat your oven to 245°F (118°C).
Grind your cannabis flower coarsely. You want to increase surface area without turning it into dust, which can be hard to filter later.
Spread the ground flower evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 30-40 minutes. The flower should turn a light, toasty brown. You will know it’s done when it looks slightly toasted.

Phase 2: The Infusion Process – Merging Science with Oil

With your decarboxylated cannabis ready, it is time for the infusion. This is where the carrier oil extracts all the goodies.

Optimal Ratios for Potency
A standard, pharmacy-grade ratio is 1:10 (cannabis to oil). As seen in official preparation methods, using a 1:10 ratio plant/oil is a reliable benchmark for creating a consistent and manageable tincture . For example, 5 grams of cannabis to 50 mL of MCT oil.

The Double Boiler Method (Low & Slow)

Combine: Place your decarbed cannabis and MCT oil into a mason jar or a small slow cooker.
Heat: Fill a pot with a few inches of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the jar in the water (water bath). This prevents the oil from directly contacting the heat source, protecting it from scorching.
Temperature Control: Maintain the water temperature between 160°F and 180°F (71°C – 82°C). Use a candy thermometer to monitor this. You do not want to boil the oil.
Time: Let this mixture steep for 2 to 4 hours. Stir occasionally. Some advanced methods utilize sonicators for speed, but for the home cook, patience is your best tool .

So, how long does it take to infuse cannabis into MCT oil?
While you will see noticeable color change in the first hour, a full chemical extraction takes time. Aim for a minimum of 2 hours. The longer infusion (up to 4 hours) ensures you’ve extracted every last bit of cannabinoid from the plant material, maximizing your yield.

Phase 3: Straining and Storing Your Gold

Once the time is up, it is time to separate the plant material from the liquid gold.

Strain: Set a funnel lined with cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer over a clean bowl or jar. Pour the mixture through. For a cleaner oil (free of plant sediments), you can strain it twice.
Squeeze (Optional): Gently squeeze the cheesecloth to extract the remaining oil. Be aware that this can also squeeze out some chlorophyll, which may make the oil slightly bitter.
Store: Pour your finished cannabis MCT oil into an amber glass dropper bottle. Dark glass protects the oil from light degradation. Label it clearly with the date and approximate potency.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Potency

You have put in the work, so let’s make sure it lasts.

How long is cannabis MCT oil good for?
Properly stored, your infusion will maintain its potency and freshness for a long time. Studies tracking cannabinoid degradation over 90 days found good stability of preparations for the first 60 days . However, for optimal freshness:

Refrigeration: Store in the fridge (around 40°F or 4°C). This halts oxidation and microbial growth. Refrigeration is recommended to prevent photo-oxidation phenomena .
Cool, Dark Place: If you use it quickly, a cool, dark pantry works, but the fridge is best.
Expectancy: You can expect your oil to remain at peak potency for 2-3 months and remain usable (though slowly degrading) for up to a year in the freezer.

Determining Dosage

This is the art of personalization. Because everyone’s flower potency varies, your oil strength will vary.

Start Low: Always begin with a tiny dose, such as a quarter of a dropper (approx. 0.25 mL).
Wait: Because MCT oil absorbs sublingually, you might feel effects in as little as 15 minutes. However, if you swallow it immediately, treat it like an edible and wait up to 2 hours before re-dosing.
Go Slow: Increase your dose incrementally until you find your “sweet spot.” Tinctures are excellent for microdosing, providing continuous relief without intense psychoactivity .

Creative Ways to Use Your Cannabis MCT Oil

Once you master how to make cannabis MCT oil, a world of culinary possibilities opens up. It is incredibly versatile because it is liquid at room temperature.

Sublingual Tincture: This is the purest form of consumption. Place drops under your tongue, hold for 60-90 seconds, and let the blood vessels absorb the cannabinoids directly. This bypasses the digestive system entirely for the fastest onset .
Gummy Making: MCT oil is the secret to potent homemade gummies. Unlike butter, it blends seamlessly into gelatin mixes. One home chef reported great success using infused MCT oil in their gummy recipe, noting that it incorporated well into the hot mixture .
Coffee Booster: Drop a dose into your morning coffee. The fat in the MCT oil binds perfectly with the coffee’s lipids, creating a smooth, energizing “psychoactive latte.”
Salad Dressings: Whisk it with vinegar, herbs, and mustard for a potent and healthy vinaigrette.

How to Use Cannabis MCT Oil

The beauty of mastering how to make cannabis MCT oil is the versatility it offers. Here are the most effective ways to use it:

Sublingually (Under the Tongue): This is the gold standard for fast relief. Place your desired dose under your tongue and hold it there for 60-90 seconds. The oil absorbs directly into the bloodstream via the mucous membranes. You should feel the effects within 15-30 minutes, bypassing the digestive system .
In Beverages: Because MCT oil is light, it mixes reasonably well into coffee, tea, or smoothies (though it may float slightly). This is a fantastic way to start your day with a focused, low-dose buzz.
In Cooking: Use it as you would any oil in salad dressings, drizzle over pasta, or mix into sauces. Warning: Do not fry with this oil at high heat, as high temperatures can destroy the cannabinoids.
Direct Ingestion: You can simply swallow the oil or put it in capsules. Remember, when swallowed, it must pass through the liver, which converts THC into a more potent form (11-hydroxy-THC). This results in a stronger, more sedative body high that takes longer to kick in (up to 2 hours) .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is MCT oil better than alcohol for tinctures?

It depends on your goal. Alcohol tinctures (green dragon) are fast-acting sublingually but burn the mouth and have a short shelf life. MCT oil is smoother, has a longer shelf life due to its stability, and is better for people who are sensitive to alcohol .

Can I use this oil topically?

Yes, you can. Cannabis MCT oil makes an excellent base for balms and salves. The MCT penetrates the skin well, delivering cannabinoids to localized areas. However, for topical use, you might want to add beeswax to thicken it into a balm consistency.

How long does homemade cannabis MCT oil last?

When stored in a cool, dark place (like a pantry), it can last 6-12 months. If stored in the refrigerator or freezer, it can last even longer—up to a year or more—without losing significant potency .

Why did my oil turn out so weak?

The most common reasons for weak oil are: 1) Skipping or improperly executing the decarboxylation step, 2) Not infusing long enough, or 3) Using low-potency starting material. Ensure your water bath stays warm for the full 4 hours.

Does mixing with MCT oil make the high stronger?

It can make the experience of the high more efficient. Because MCT oil increases the bioavailability of cannabinoids, your body is able to absorb and utilize more of the THC/CBD than it would if the same amount were mixed with olive oil. Therefore, you may feel the effects more profoundly with a smaller volume of oil .

Is MCT oil better for cannabis?

Yes, for most applications. MCT oil is better for cannabis when you prioritize fast absorption, high bioavailability, and long shelf life. Studies show it preserves terpenes better than olive oil and remains stable for months . It is the preferred choice for medical patients and culinary enthusiasts alike.

How long does it take to infuse cannabis into MCT oil?

The active infusion time (time at temperature) should be 2 to 4 hours. While you can do a quick infusion in 30-60 minutes using high heat, the low-and-slow method ensures you extract the maximum amount of cannabinoids without damaging the oil.

How long is cannabis MCT oil good for?

If stored in an airtight, amber glass container in the refrigerator, cannabis MCT oil is good for up to 60 days at peak potency and can remain safe to use for up to 6 months to a year . Always check for rancid smells (like play-doh or old paint) before using.

Can you decarb cannabis in MCT oil?

While physically possible, it is not recommended. Decarboxylation requires specific temperatures to efficiently convert THCA to THC. Doing it directly in the oil is less precise and can lead to uneven activation. It is always best to decarb the flower separately in the oven for consistent potency .

What is the best ratio of cannabis to MCT oil?

A safe and potent starting point is a 1:10 ratio. For every 1 gram of decarboxylated cannabis, use 10 mL of MCT oil . If you have high-THC flower (20%+), this will yield a moderately strong oil perfect for most users.

Do I need to add lecithin to my infusion?

Lecithin is an emulsifier. It helps oil and water-based ingredients mix (like in gummies) and is believed by some to increase bioavailability. However, many experts argue that MCT oil is so bioavailable on its own that lecithin is unnecessary . It is optional but can be helpful for culinary recipes.

Conclusion: Your Journey to Better Edibles Starts Now

Learning how to make cannabis MCT oil is the single most valuable skill you can add to your home kitchen repertoire. It transforms the edible experience from a guessing game into a precise, enjoyable, and consistent practice.

By choosing MCT oil, you are leveraging science to get the most out of your cannabis—extracting more compounds, preserving them longer, and helping your body utilize them faster.

Now it’s your turn. Have you tried making cannabis MCT oil at home? What is your favorite way to use it—in your coffee, under your tongue, or in a recipe? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below! And if you found this guide helpful, share it with a friend who is tired of waiting for those brownies to kick in.