Optimization of phytocannabinoid extraction from hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) with decarboxylation-based crude palm kernel oil and its potential as an energy supplement product for suckling piglets.

This study investigated the extraction of phytocannabinoids from Cannabis sativa L. (hemp) using medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil to evaluate their potential as energy supplements for suckling piglets and MCT emulsion formula with phytocannabinoids and highly concentrated lauric acid (EMPL prototype product). The most effective conditions were found at 12% hemp leaves in CPKO with a 6-hour heating period, resulting in the highest TPC (57.38 mg GAE/g DW), and antioxidant activities (DPPH: 34.43%, ABTS: 64.33%, and FRAP: 53.18%) (P<0.01). The obtained extract contained 0.016% cannabidiol (CBD), 0.015% cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), 0.029% total cannabidiol, along with 54.50% medium-chain fatty acids, 47.09% lauric acid, 96.48% total fat, and a gross energy content of 8,813 kcal/kg. The EMPL group showed significantly higher performance in average weight (2.00 kg), average daily gain (ADG) (132.59 g/piglet/day), and milk intake (552.01 ml/piglet) at 5 days old compared to the control group (P<0.01). These findings indicated that 12% hemp leaves extract in CPKO, heated for 6 hr at 110°C, significantly enhances antioxidant and phytocannabinoid content. An emulsion of medium-chain fatty acids with 40% lauric acid plus phytocannabinoids (EMPL) improved the growth performance and milk intake of piglets, demonstrating its potential as an effective and innovative energy supplement for suckling piglets.