Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people using it as a means of consuming cannabis. However, concerns have arisen over the safety of vaping MCT oil, which is sometimes used as a carrier oil in vape cartridges.
MCT oil is a medium-chain triglyceride oil derived from coconut oil, which has gained popularity as a health supplement due to its potential benefits for weight loss and cognitive function. While it is generally considered safe to consume and apply topically, the safety of vaping MCT oil is still unclear.
According to Dr. Adie Rae, a neuroscientist and scientific adviser to Weedmaps, there is currently not enough research to determine whether vaping MCT oil is safe or not. However, there are parallels between the vitamin E acetate involved in the EVALI cases and MCT oil.
Vitamin E acetate was found to be a common additive in illicit THC vape cartridges and was linked to the outbreak of lung injuries in 2019. Similarly, MCT oil is sometimes added to vape cartridges as a thinning agent or to increase the potency of the oil. When heated to high temperatures, MCT oil can break down into harmful compounds, which can potentially cause lung infections such as lipid pneumonia or lipoid pneumonia.
While MCT oil is generally recognized as safe for consumption and topical use, the same cannot be said for its safety when inhaled. The jury is still out on the long-term effects of vaping MCT oil, and until further research is conducted, it is best to err on the side of caution.
To minimize the potential risks associated with vaping, it is recommended to shop for vape pens that only contain 100% pure cannabis oil, with no added substances of any kind, including added flavors and even added terpenes, which have also been shown to be dangerous.
In conclusion, while MCT oil is generally considered safe for consumption and topical use, the safety of vaping MCT oil is still unclear. Until more research is conducted, it is best to avoid vaping MCT oil and instead opt for pure cannabis oil with no added substances. Vaping should always be approached with caution, and users should be mindful of the potential risks associated with this method of consumption.