Best Carrier Oils for CBD Drops: Hempseed, Olive, or MCT?

We most commonly use CBD drops for the benefits of CBD or any other cannabinoids that might be present in full-spectrum products. It is not common that we are picky about which carrier oil our CBD is diluted in. However, different oils also pose different beneficial impacts. In continuation, we will take a look at the most common carrier oils used for the production of CBD drops, together with their pros and cons.

The most commonly used carrier oils for CBD drops

Any carrier oil can be used for CBD drops. However, some are more popular or more frequently used. The most common CBD carrier oils in the market are hemp seed oil, olive oil, or MCT oil. Each of the oils has its beneficial properties.

Hempseed Oil

Hempseed oil is pressed from hemp seeds, ideally by cold pressing under 40°C to preserve nutrients.

Rich in omega fatty acids: Balanced 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3.
Anti-inflammatory support: Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation.
Taste & color: Dark yellow to green with a nutty flavor.

The downside? Because it’s high in unsaturated fats, hempseed oil is less stable and CBD drops with this carrier may have a shorter shelf life.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is extracted from olives, with extra virgin olive oil being the most valuable since it is unrefined and packed with natural compounds.

Oleic acid (73%): A monounsaturated fatty acid known to reduce inflammation.
Taste & color: Yellow with a peppery taste.
Nutritional value: Contains vitamins and polyphenols that support overall health.

Olive oil makes CBD drops flavorful and beneficial, but like hempseed oil, it is less stable compared to MCT oil.

MCT Oil

MCT stands for medium-chain triglycerides, usually derived from coconut or palm kernel oil.

Easy to digest: Fatty acids are shorter, so they absorb faster.
Neutral flavor: Transparent and tasteless, perfect when adding natural flavors.
Shelf life: Very stable since it contains only saturated fats, meaning rancidity is unlikely.

MCT oil is a popular choice in modern CBD formulations because it ensures consistency, stability, and long shelf life.

Which Carrier Oil Should You Choose?

It depends on your needs:

Choose hempseed or olive oil if you want added nutritional value from natural fatty acids.
Choose MCT oil if you prefer long shelf life, a neutral taste, and stability.

No matter which carrier oil you prefer, always choose CBD drops from a trusted manufacturer with proper quality certificates.

For clean, targeted formulations developed with research and certified quality, explore: