Does CBD vape oil really contain propylene glycol?
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Yes, many CBD vape oils do contain propylene glycol (PG). It is one of the two standard base liquids, along with vegetable glycerin (VG), used to dissolve the CBD and create the vapor you inhale .
However, it is not a universal ingredient. The market is essentially split into two types of CBD vape products, which use very different base liquids.
🔬 The Two Main Types of CBD Vape Products
Scientific studies have identified two distinct categories of CBD vape liquids, defined by their primary solvent .
| Product Category | Primary Solvents | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| PG/VG-Based (Water-Soluble) | Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG) | • Contains PG. This is the traditional e-liquid base that produces a familiar "cloud" . • Designed to be used in standard vape mods and pod systems. • Easily mixes with water-based flavorings. |
| Oil-Based (Hydrophobic) | Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) oil, often derived from coconut or palm oil | • Does not contain PG . • Often sold in pre-filled cartridges. • Important Safety Note: These oils can potentially pose a higher risk of lipoid pneumonia if inhaled in large quantities. This is distinct from the Vitamin E acetate that caused the 2019 EVALI outbreak, but lung experts still advise caution with any inhaled oil . |
Note on the EVALI Outbreak: The severe lung injuries reported in 2019 were primarily linked to Vitamin E acetate, a different thickening agent used in illicit THC vapes . While MCT oil is considered less harmful than Vitamin E acetate, the long-term safety of inhaling any oil is still being studied.
🧪 Scientific Evidence for PG in CBD Vapes
Multiple peer-reviewed studies have confirmed the presence of propylene glycol in commercially available CBD vape products.
A 2021 study analyzing various vape products found that PG was present in the tested CBD e-liquids at concentrations ranging from 106.26 to 491.92 mg/g .
A 2016 study that evaluated two CBD vape liquids found they were formulated with a mixture of PG and VG .
The standard composition for an e-liquid, as described by researchers, is an active ingredient (like CBD) mixed with propylene glycol (PG) and/or vegetable glycerin (VG) .
💡 How to Know What's in Your Product
Because there is no standardization, the only way to know for sure if your CBD vape contains PG is to read the product label and the manufacturer's website.
Look for PG/VG Ratio: Reputable brands will clearly state the PG/VG ratio (e.g., "50/50" or "70/30 VG/PG"). If you see this, it contains PG.
Look for "MCT Oil" or "Coconut Oil": If the ingredient list mentions MCT oil or coconut-derived oil, it is an oil-based product and does not contain PG .
Avoid Unclear Ingredients: If a product does not clearly list its base ingredients, it is best to avoid it. The lack of transparency is a red flag for quality and safety.
I hope this clarifies the ingredients in CBD vape products. Are you interested in learning more about the potential health considerations of inhaling PG versus MCT oil?
