Breaking news! I bought some KTC Pure Coconut Oil from the internet and it
cost me about £8 with postage but I have just come back from Tesco and in
the "World" section they have the exact same for £2.25!!! So if you want to
try coconut oil, it just got cheaper!
The Health Benefits of Coconut Oil
Organic Coconut Oil
cost me about £8 with postage but I have just come back from Tesco and in
the "World" section they have the exact same for £2.25!!! So if you want to
try coconut oil, it just got cheaper!
The Health Benefits of Coconut Oil
Organic Coconut Oil
The health benefits of coconut oil include hair care, skin care, stress relief,
cholesterol level maintenance, weight loss, boosted immune system, proper
digestion and regulated metabolism. It also provides relief from kidney problems,
heart diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV, and cancer, while helping
to improve dental quality and bone strength. These benefits of oil can be
attributed to the presence of lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid, and
their respective properties, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-fungal,
antibacterial and soothing qualities.
cholesterol level maintenance, weight loss, boosted immune system, proper
digestion and regulated metabolism. It also provides relief from kidney problems,
heart diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV, and cancer, while helping
to improve dental quality and bone strength. These benefits of oil can be
attributed to the presence of lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid, and
their respective properties, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-fungal,
antibacterial and soothing qualities.
Coconut oil is used extensively in tropical countries especially India, Sri Lanka,
Thailand and the Philippines etc., which have a good production of coconut
oil. At one time, the oil was also popular in western countries like the United
States and Canada, but there was a strong propaganda campaign in the
1970s spread by the corn oil and soy oil industry against coconut oil.
Thailand and the Philippines etc., which have a good production of coconut
oil. At one time, the oil was also popular in western countries like the United
States and Canada, but there was a strong propaganda campaign in the
1970s spread by the corn oil and soy oil industry against coconut oil.
Coconut oil was considered harmful for the human body due to its high
saturated fat content until the last decade (2000s) when people began to
question the claims of the propaganda. Next, let’s look into some more
details of how coconut oil works in our body.
saturated fat content until the last decade (2000s) when people began to
question the claims of the propaganda. Next, let’s look into some more
details of how coconut oil works in our body.
How is lauric acid used by our body?
The human body converts lauric acid into monolaurin, which is supposedly
helpful in dealing with viruses and bacteria that cause diseases such as
herpes, influenza, cytomegalovirus, and even HIV. It also helps in fighting
harmful bacteria such as listeria monocytogenes and helicobacter pylori,
and harmful protozoa such as giardia lamblia.
helpful in dealing with viruses and bacteria that cause diseases such as
herpes, influenza, cytomegalovirus, and even HIV. It also helps in fighting
harmful bacteria such as listeria monocytogenes and helicobacter pylori,
and harmful protozoa such as giardia lamblia.
As a result of these various health benefits of coconut oil, although its exact
mechanism of action was unknown, it has been extensively used in Ayurveda,
the traditional Indian medicinal system.The Coconut Research Center has
compiled a list of potential benefits of coconut oil in both traditional and
modern medicine. Before we move on to the benefits of coconut oil
in detail, we should first understand its composition.
Composition of Coconut Oil:
More than ninety percent of coconut oil consists of saturated fats (Don’t panic!
It’s not as bad as it sounds, read to the end of this review and your opinion
may change), along with traces of few unsaturated fatty acids, such as
monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Virgin coconut
oil is no different from this.
It’s not as bad as it sounds, read to the end of this review and your opinion
may change), along with traces of few unsaturated fatty acids, such as
monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Virgin coconut
oil is no different from this.
Saturated fatty acids: Most of them are medium chain triglycerides, which
are supposed to assimilate well in the body’s systems. Lauric acid is the
chief contributor, representing more than forty percent of the total, followed
by capric acid, caprylic acid, myristic acid and palmitic.
are supposed to assimilate well in the body’s systems. Lauric acid is the
chief contributor, representing more than forty percent of the total, followed
by capric acid, caprylic acid, myristic acid and palmitic.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids: Linoleic acid.
Monounsaturated fatty acids: Oleic acid.
Poly-phenols: Coconut contains Gallic acid, which is also known as phenolic
acid.
These polyphenols are responsible for the fragrance and the taste of coconut
oil and Virgin Coconut Oil is rich in these polyphenols.
acid.
These polyphenols are responsible for the fragrance and the taste of coconut
oil and Virgin Coconut Oil is rich in these polyphenols.
Certain derivatives of fatty acid like betaines, ethanolamide, ethoxylates,
fatty esters, fatty polysorbates, monoglycerides and polyol esters.
fatty esters, fatty polysorbates, monoglycerides and polyol esters.
Fatty chlorides, fatty alcohol sulphate and fatty alcohol ether sulphate, all of which
are derivatives of fatty alcohols.
are derivatives of fatty alcohols.
Vitamin-E, vitamin K and minerals such as iron.
Health Benefits of
Coconut Oil
Hair care:
Coconut oil is one of the best
natural nutrients for your hair.
It helps in healthy growth of
hair and gives your hair a shiny
quality. It is also highly effective
in reducing protein loss which
can lead to various
unattractive or unhealthy
qualities in your hair.
natural nutrients for your hair.
It helps in healthy growth of
hair and gives your hair a shiny
quality. It is also highly effective
in reducing protein loss which
can lead to various
unattractive or unhealthy
qualities in your hair.
Coconut oil is extensively used in the Indian sub-continent for hair care. Most of the
people in those countries apply coconut oil on their hair every day after bathing or
showering. It is an excellent conditioner and helps the re-growth process of
damaged hair. It also provides the essential proteins required for nourishing
and healing damaged hair. Research studies indicate that coconut oil provides
better protection to hair from damage caused by hygral fatigue.
people in those countries apply coconut oil on their hair every day after bathing or
showering. It is an excellent conditioner and helps the re-growth process of
damaged hair. It also provides the essential proteins required for nourishing
and healing damaged hair. Research studies indicate that coconut oil provides
better protection to hair from damage caused by hygral fatigue.
By regularly massaging your head with coconut oil, you can ensure that your scalp
is free of dandruff, even if your scalp is chronically dry. It also helps in keeping
your hair and scalp free from lice and lice eggs.
is free of dandruff, even if your scalp is chronically dry. It also helps in keeping
your hair and scalp free from lice and lice eggs.
Coconut oil is therefore used as hair care oil and is used in manufacturing various
conditioners and dandruff relief creams. Coconut oil is normally applied topically
for hair care.
conditioners and dandruff relief creams. Coconut oil is normally applied topically
for hair care.
Heart diseases
There is a misconception spread among many people that coconut oil is not good
for heart health. This is because it contains a large quantity of saturated fats.
In reality, coconut oil is beneficial for the heart. It contains about 50% lauric
acid, which helps in actively preventing various heart problems like high
cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. The saturated fats present in coconut
oil are not harmful as you commonly find in vegetable oils. Coconut oil does not
lead to increase in LDL levels, and it reduces the incidence of injury and
damage to arteries and therefore helps in preventing atherosclerosis.
for heart health. This is because it contains a large quantity of saturated fats.
In reality, coconut oil is beneficial for the heart. It contains about 50% lauric
acid, which helps in actively preventing various heart problems like high
cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. The saturated fats present in coconut
oil are not harmful as you commonly find in vegetable oils. Coconut oil does not
lead to increase in LDL levels, and it reduces the incidence of injury and
damage to arteries and therefore helps in preventing atherosclerosis.
Skin care
Coconut oil is an excellent massage oil for the skin as well. It acts as an effective
moisturizer on all types of skin, including dry skin. The benefit of coconut oil on the
skin is comparable to that of mineral oil. Fortunately, unlike mineral oil, there is
no chance of having any adverse side effects on the skin from the application
of coconut oil. Coconut oil therefore is a safe solution for preventing dryness
and flaking of skin. It also delays the appearance of wrinkles and sagging of
skin which normally accompany aging. Coconut oil also helps in treating various
skin problems including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin infections.
For that exact reason, coconut oil forms the base ingredient of various body
care products like soaps, lotions, and creams that are used for skin care.
Coconut oil also helps in preventing premature aging and degenerative
diseases due to its well-known antioxidant properties.
moisturizer on all types of skin, including dry skin. The benefit of coconut oil on the
skin is comparable to that of mineral oil. Fortunately, unlike mineral oil, there is
no chance of having any adverse side effects on the skin from the application
of coconut oil. Coconut oil therefore is a safe solution for preventing dryness
and flaking of skin. It also delays the appearance of wrinkles and sagging of
skin which normally accompany aging. Coconut oil also helps in treating various
skin problems including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin infections.
For that exact reason, coconut oil forms the base ingredient of various body
care products like soaps, lotions, and creams that are used for skin care.
Coconut oil also helps in preventing premature aging and degenerative
diseases due to its well-known antioxidant properties.
Weight loss
Coconut oil is very useful for weight loss. It contains short and medium-chain fatty
acids that help in taking off excessive weight. It is also easy to digest and
it helps in healthy functioning of the thyroid and endocrine system. Further, it
increases the body’s metabolic rate by removing stress on the pancreas,
thereby burning more energy and helping obese and overweight people lose
the weight. Hence, people living in tropical coastal areas, who use coconut
oil every day as their primary cooking oil, are normally not fat, obese or
overweight.
acids that help in taking off excessive weight. It is also easy to digest and
it helps in healthy functioning of the thyroid and endocrine system. Further, it
increases the body’s metabolic rate by removing stress on the pancreas,
thereby burning more energy and helping obese and overweight people lose
the weight. Hence, people living in tropical coastal areas, who use coconut
oil every day as their primary cooking oil, are normally not fat, obese or
overweight.
Immunity
Coconut oil is also good for the immune system. It strengthens the immune system
because it contains antimicrobial lipids, lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid
which have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. The human body
converts lauric acid into monolaurin which research has supported as an effective
way to deal with viruses and bacteria that cause diseases like herpes,
influenza, cytomegalovirus, and even HIV. Coconut oil helps in fighting harmful
bacteria like listeria monocytogenes and helicobacter pylori, and harmful
protozoa such as giardia lamblia.
because it contains antimicrobial lipids, lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid
which have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. The human body
converts lauric acid into monolaurin which research has supported as an effective
way to deal with viruses and bacteria that cause diseases like herpes,
influenza, cytomegalovirus, and even HIV. Coconut oil helps in fighting harmful
bacteria like listeria monocytogenes and helicobacter pylori, and harmful
protozoa such as giardia lamblia.
Digestion
Internal functions of coconut oil
occur primarily due to it being
used as cooking oil. Coconut oil
helps to improve the digestive
system and thus prevents various
stomach and digestion-related
problems including Irritable Bowel
Syndrome.
The saturated fats present in
coconut oil have antimicrobial
properties and help in dealing with various bacteria, fungi, and parasites that can
cause indigestion. Coconut oil also helps in the absorption of other nutrients
such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
occur primarily due to it being
used as cooking oil. Coconut oil
helps to improve the digestive
system and thus prevents various
stomach and digestion-related
problems including Irritable Bowel
Syndrome.
The saturated fats present in
coconut oil have antimicrobial
properties and help in dealing with various bacteria, fungi, and parasites that can
cause indigestion. Coconut oil also helps in the absorption of other nutrients
such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
Candida
Coconut has been shown to prevent and even cure candida. It provides relief from
the inflammation caused by candida, both externally and internally. Its high moisture
retaining capacity keeps the skin from cracking or peeling off. Further, unlike other
pharmaceutical treatments for candida, the effects of coconut oil is gradual and
not drastic or sudden, which gives the patient an appropriate amount of time
to get used to the withdrawal symptoms or Herxheimer Reactions (the name given
to the symptoms accompanying body’s rejection of toxins generated during
elimination of these fungi). But, in the treatment of this condition, people should
systematically and gradually increase their dosages of coconut oil and shouldn’t
initially start with a large quantity.
the inflammation caused by candida, both externally and internally. Its high moisture
retaining capacity keeps the skin from cracking or peeling off. Further, unlike other
pharmaceutical treatments for candida, the effects of coconut oil is gradual and
not drastic or sudden, which gives the patient an appropriate amount of time
to get used to the withdrawal symptoms or Herxheimer Reactions (the name given
to the symptoms accompanying body’s rejection of toxins generated during
elimination of these fungi). But, in the treatment of this condition, people should
systematically and gradually increase their dosages of coconut oil and shouldn’t
initially start with a large quantity.
Candida, also known as Systemic Candidiasis, is a tragic disease caused from
excessive and uncontrolled growth of yeast called Candida Albicans in the
stomach. This yeast is more or less present in everyone’s stomach, but it
doesn’t manifest any adverse effects since its growth is controlled by the
beneficial bacteria which also resides in our stomach. There are many reasons
for this uncontrolled growth of yeast. For example, if other destructive bacteria
or the use of antibiotics which ultimately end up in eliminating these bacteria,
there can be an imbalance of bacteria and a problem like Candida can develop.
Also, bleaching or washing of your stomach with medicines or excessive use
of chemical laxatives or ingestion of poisonous material can cause the yeast or
fungi to start growing very fast and can lead to Candida.
excessive and uncontrolled growth of yeast called Candida Albicans in the
stomach. This yeast is more or less present in everyone’s stomach, but it
doesn’t manifest any adverse effects since its growth is controlled by the
beneficial bacteria which also resides in our stomach. There are many reasons
for this uncontrolled growth of yeast. For example, if other destructive bacteria
or the use of antibiotics which ultimately end up in eliminating these bacteria,
there can be an imbalance of bacteria and a problem like Candida can develop.
Also, bleaching or washing of your stomach with medicines or excessive use
of chemical laxatives or ingestion of poisonous material can cause the yeast or
fungi to start growing very fast and can lead to Candida.
Symptoms of candida: The symptoms of Candida include infection in the genitals,
urinary tract and bladder, stomach & intestines, ear, nose and throat,
itchy and dry skin, inflammations in internal organs and skin, patching
& peeling off of skin (particularly in scalp), digestive and excretory disorders and
problems with your hair and nails.
urinary tract and bladder, stomach & intestines, ear, nose and throat,
itchy and dry skin, inflammations in internal organs and skin, patching
& peeling off of skin (particularly in scalp), digestive and excretory disorders and
problems with your hair and nails.
This disease is very common in Europe and America, possibly due to the cold and
moist climate and general food preparation, storage, and comsumption habits.
In these places, a large portion of their food is comprised of food stuffs which,
in some way or the other, are processed with yeast or fermented. For example,
these cultures heavily rely on foods like bread, other baked items, cheese and
above all, wine and other alcoholic drinks. These things also assist growth of
Candida Albicans in the body. The various fatty acids found in the coconut oil are
beneficial in counteracting the effects of these habits and can be used to treat
Candida.
moist climate and general food preparation, storage, and comsumption habits.
In these places, a large portion of their food is comprised of food stuffs which,
in some way or the other, are processed with yeast or fermented. For example,
these cultures heavily rely on foods like bread, other baked items, cheese and
above all, wine and other alcoholic drinks. These things also assist growth of
Candida Albicans in the body. The various fatty acids found in the coconut oil are
beneficial in counteracting the effects of these habits and can be used to treat
Candida.
Capric acid is a medium chain fatty acid (a Saturated Fat) present in coconut oil
and has antimicrobial, antiviral and antifungal properties. This is the same fatty
acid present in breast milk and it protects the baby from bacterial, viral and
fungal infections. In the body, it reacts with certain enzymes secreted by other
bacteria, which subsequently convert it into a powerful antimicrobial agent,
monocaprin. In the systematic use of coconut oil as a treatment for Candida, the
capric acid has also been found very effective in killing the yeast.
and has antimicrobial, antiviral and antifungal properties. This is the same fatty
acid present in breast milk and it protects the baby from bacterial, viral and
fungal infections. In the body, it reacts with certain enzymes secreted by other
bacteria, which subsequently convert it into a powerful antimicrobial agent,
monocaprin. In the systematic use of coconut oil as a treatment for Candida, the
capric acid has also been found very effective in killing the yeast.
Caprylic acid, caproic acid, myristic acid and lauric acid are all found in
coconut oil and have antimicrobial and antifungal properties which aid in the
elimination of candida albicans. Lauric acid is a saturated fat and a medium
chain fatty acid that forms a compound called monolaurin when it reacts with
enzymes. This monolaurin is a potent germ and fungus killer.
coconut oil and have antimicrobial and antifungal properties which aid in the
elimination of candida albicans. Lauric acid is a saturated fat and a medium
chain fatty acid that forms a compound called monolaurin when it reacts with
enzymes. This monolaurin is a potent germ and fungus killer.
Healing and infections
When applied to infected areas, coconut oil forms a chemical layer that protects
the infected body part from external dust, air, fungi, bacteria and viruses.
Coconut oil is highly effective on bruises because it speeds up the healing
process of damaged tissues.
the infected body part from external dust, air, fungi, bacteria and viruses.
Coconut oil is highly effective on bruises because it speeds up the healing
process of damaged tissues.
Infections: Coconut oil is very effective against a variety of infections due to its
antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. According to the Coconut
Research Center, coconut oil kills the viruses that cause influenza, measles,
hepatitis, herpes, SARS, and other serious health risks. It also kills bacteria that
cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and gonorrhoea.
Finally, coconut oil is also effective in the elimination of fungi and yeast that cause
ringworm, athlete’s foot, thrush, and diaper rash.
antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. According to the Coconut
Research Center, coconut oil kills the viruses that cause influenza, measles,
hepatitis, herpes, SARS, and other serious health risks. It also kills bacteria that
cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and gonorrhoea.
Finally, coconut oil is also effective in the elimination of fungi and yeast that cause
ringworm, athlete’s foot, thrush, and diaper rash.
Other
Coconut oil is strongly recommended for a number of other benefits that are
explained below. Using coconut oils has been shown to mildly help the following:
explained below. Using coconut oils has been shown to mildly help the following:
Liver: The presence of medium chain triglycerides and fatty acids helps in
preventing liver diseases because those substances are easily converted
into energy when they reach the liver, thus reducing the work load of the
liver and also preventing accumulation of fat.
preventing liver diseases because those substances are easily converted
into energy when they reach the liver, thus reducing the work load of the
liver and also preventing accumulation of fat.
Kidney: Coconut oil helps in preventing kidney and gall bladder diseases.
It also helps to dissolve kidney stones.
It also helps to dissolve kidney stones.
Pancreatitis: Coconut oil is also believed to be useful in treating pancreatitis.
Stress relief: Coconut oil is very soothing and hence it helps in removing
stress. Applying coconut oil to the head, followed by a gentle massage,
helps to eliminate mental fatigue.
stress. Applying coconut oil to the head, followed by a gentle massage,
helps to eliminate mental fatigue.
Diabetes: Coconut oil helps in controlling blood sugar, and improves the
secretion of insulin. It also promotes the effective utilization of blood glucose,
thereby preventing and treating diabetes.
secretion of insulin. It also promotes the effective utilization of blood glucose,
thereby preventing and treating diabetes.
Bones: As mentioned earlier, coconut oil improves the ability of our body to
absorb important minerals. These include calcium and magnesium which are
necessary for the development of bones. Thus, coconut oil is very useful to
women who are prone to osteoporosis after middle age.
absorb important minerals. These include calcium and magnesium which are
necessary for the development of bones. Thus, coconut oil is very useful to
women who are prone to osteoporosis after middle age.
Dental care: Calcium is an important component of our teeth. Since coconut
oil facilitates absorption of calcium by the body, it helps in developing strong
teeth. Coconut oil also stops tooth decay.
oil facilitates absorption of calcium by the body, it helps in developing strong
teeth. Coconut oil also stops tooth decay.
HIV and cancer: It is believed that coconut oil plays an instrumental role in
reducing a person’s viral susceptibility for HIV and cancer patients.
Preliminary research has shown an indication of this effect of coconut oil on
reducing the viral load of HIV patients (Reference).
reducing a person’s viral susceptibility for HIV and cancer patients.
Preliminary research has shown an indication of this effect of coconut oil on
reducing the viral load of HIV patients (Reference).
Finally, coconut oil is often used by athletes, body builders and by those who
are dieting. The reason behind this being that coconut oil contains less
calories than other oils, its fat content is easily converted into energy,
and it does not lead to accumulation of fat in the heart and arteries. Coconut
oil helps boost energy and endurance, and generally enhances the performance
of athletes.
are dieting. The reason behind this being that coconut oil contains less
calories than other oils, its fat content is easily converted into energy,
and it does not lead to accumulation of fat in the heart and arteries. Coconut
oil helps boost energy and endurance, and generally enhances the performance
of athletes.
Coconut oil and Alzheimer’s disease: The research conducted by Dr. Newport
states that coconut oil is useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease. Apart from this
there is no scientific evidence or traditional knowledge of coconut oil being
used for treating Alzheimer’s. In fact, it is not traditionally thought that coconut oil
helps in boosting the function of the brain in any form.
states that coconut oil is useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease. Apart from this
there is no scientific evidence or traditional knowledge of coconut oil being
used for treating Alzheimer’s. In fact, it is not traditionally thought that coconut oil
helps in boosting the function of the brain in any form.
Why is coconut oil solid?: Unlike most other oils, coconut oil has a high melting
point – about 24 to 25 degrees Celsius or 76-78 Fahrenheit. Therefore it is solid
at room temperature and melts only when the temperature rises considerably.
Hence, if you buy a bottle of coconut oil and find it solid, don’t immediately assume
that there is some problem with it. Coconut oil is often in this form, and obviously,
don’t keep it in your refrigerator.
point – about 24 to 25 degrees Celsius or 76-78 Fahrenheit. Therefore it is solid
at room temperature and melts only when the temperature rises considerably.
Hence, if you buy a bottle of coconut oil and find it solid, don’t immediately assume
that there is some problem with it. Coconut oil is often in this form, and obviously,
don’t keep it in your refrigerator.
How to use coconut oil?: If you are using coconut oil for topical purposes,
especially hair care, just melt the oil (if it is solid) by keeping the bottle in the sun
or soaking it in warm water. You can also take some coconut oil out and put it
in a small bowl and heat the bowl over a flame (don’t use a microwave). Then,
take the oil on your palm and apply it to your hair. If you want to use it for internal
consumption, simply replace butter or vegetable oils with coconut oil in your
recipes. Remember, you don’t need to completely switch to coconut oil, because
then you will lose the other benefits of more traditional oils and dairy products.
especially hair care, just melt the oil (if it is solid) by keeping the bottle in the sun
or soaking it in warm water. You can also take some coconut oil out and put it
in a small bowl and heat the bowl over a flame (don’t use a microwave). Then,
take the oil on your palm and apply it to your hair. If you want to use it for internal
consumption, simply replace butter or vegetable oils with coconut oil in your
recipes. Remember, you don’t need to completely switch to coconut oil, because
then you will lose the other benefits of more traditional oils and dairy products.
Can I use coconut oil for cooking?: Yes, in most of the tropical coastal
regions, people use coconut oil for cooking.
regions, people use coconut oil for cooking.
I don’t like the taste of coconut oil. What should I do?: Try using coconut oil
in a variety of different recipes. However, if you get nauseated after eating coconut
oil, don’t force yourself to eat it. As can happen with any food item, your body
may be allergic to coconut oil and it is best not to consume it.
in a variety of different recipes. However, if you get nauseated after eating coconut
oil, don’t force yourself to eat it. As can happen with any food item, your body
may be allergic to coconut oil and it is best not to consume it.
Varieties of Coconut Oil
There are primarily 6 varieties of coconut oil that you will find on the market. These
are pure coconut oil, refined coconut oil, organic coconut oil, virgin coconut oil,
organic virgin coconut oil and extra virgin coconut oil.
are pure coconut oil, refined coconut oil, organic coconut oil, virgin coconut oil,
organic virgin coconut oil and extra virgin coconut oil.
Pure Coconut Oil: This oil is our most well-known old friend. It is extracted from
dried coconut kernels, which are also called copra. It is crude, unrefined and
without any additives. It is mainly extracted by compression of copra in a mill,
either driven by bullocks or by power. However, the variety extracted by bullock
driven oil mills is preferred. Pure coconut oil has multiple uses such as edible oil,
massaging oil, hair oil, cosmetic usage, as well as medicinal and industrial use.
dried coconut kernels, which are also called copra. It is crude, unrefined and
without any additives. It is mainly extracted by compression of copra in a mill,
either driven by bullocks or by power. However, the variety extracted by bullock
driven oil mills is preferred. Pure coconut oil has multiple uses such as edible oil,
massaging oil, hair oil, cosmetic usage, as well as medicinal and industrial use.
Refined Coconut Oil: This is sometimes also called the RBD coconut oil, which
is an abbreviated form for refined, bleached & deodorized coconut oil.
As the name suggests, this type is obtained by mechanically and chemically
refining, bleaching and deodorizing the crude coconut oil, to make it thin,
colorless, odorless and without any type of particle (such as proteins) suspended
in it. What we then get is only pure saturated fats.
is an abbreviated form for refined, bleached & deodorized coconut oil.
As the name suggests, this type is obtained by mechanically and chemically
refining, bleaching and deodorizing the crude coconut oil, to make it thin,
colorless, odorless and without any type of particle (such as proteins) suspended
in it. What we then get is only pure saturated fats.
Virgin Coconut Oil: Virgin coconut oil is derived from the milk obtained from
fresh coconut meat, and not from copra, by processes like fermentation,
centrifugal separation and enzyme action. Care is taken to use no or as little
heat as possible in the extraction of this oil. Produced in this way, the oil
tastes and smells the best and is laden with antioxidants and medium chain
fatty acids. It also has remarkable anti-microbial properties. This is one of the
most respected and trusted varieties of coconut oil.
fresh coconut meat, and not from copra, by processes like fermentation,
centrifugal separation and enzyme action. Care is taken to use no or as little
heat as possible in the extraction of this oil. Produced in this way, the oil
tastes and smells the best and is laden with antioxidants and medium chain
fatty acids. It also has remarkable anti-microbial properties. This is one of the
most respected and trusted varieties of coconut oil.
Organic Coconut Oil: The coconut oil that has been extracted from coconuts
obtained from coconut palms raised only on organic manure and no synthetic
fertilizers or insecticides. The production of organic coconut oil is also
completed without involving any chemical in its extraction or processing.
This is another well-respected variety of coconut oil. Organic coconut oil forms
an integral part of a number of organic cosmetic products such as organic
soaps, organic skin creams and lotions, organic snacks and thousands of other
similar products. Some of the organic programs and authorities that certify
organic coconut oil include Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS), USDA
National Organic Program (NOP), European Organic Regulations
(EU 2092/91), Export Certificates for Japan (JAS Equivalent), Indian
National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP), Quebec Organic
Reference Standard (CAAQ), Bio Suisse Standards, IOFAM Basic Standards,
ECOCERT.
obtained from coconut palms raised only on organic manure and no synthetic
fertilizers or insecticides. The production of organic coconut oil is also
completed without involving any chemical in its extraction or processing.
This is another well-respected variety of coconut oil. Organic coconut oil forms
an integral part of a number of organic cosmetic products such as organic
soaps, organic skin creams and lotions, organic snacks and thousands of other
similar products. Some of the organic programs and authorities that certify
organic coconut oil include Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS), USDA
National Organic Program (NOP), European Organic Regulations
(EU 2092/91), Export Certificates for Japan (JAS Equivalent), Indian
National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP), Quebec Organic
Reference Standard (CAAQ), Bio Suisse Standards, IOFAM Basic Standards,
ECOCERT.
Organic Virgin Coconut Oil: This type of oil is basically virgin coconut oil
produced from the organic coconuts, in an organic way. This is perhaps the
best and purest form of coconut oil one can imagine, but it is rare.
produced from the organic coconuts, in an organic way. This is perhaps the
best and purest form of coconut oil one can imagine, but it is rare.
Extra Virgin Coconut Oil: Among all the varieties of coconut oil, this is the
most challenged and controversial variety, as its very existence is doubtful
and the name hardly makes any sense. Furthermore, there are no set
standards for virginity of coconut oil. Moreover, reputed firms and
governmental bodies are still hesitant to say anything on the matter, nor are
they selling it. Basically, further research is definitely required.
most challenged and controversial variety, as its very existence is doubtful
and the name hardly makes any sense. Furthermore, there are no set
standards for virginity of coconut oil. Moreover, reputed firms and
governmental bodies are still hesitant to say anything on the matter, nor are
they selling it. Basically, further research is definitely required.
The properties of coconut oil do not differ much with their varieties and remain
more or less the same. So, think well and make a wise decision before you
decide to purchase one of the varieties.
more or less the same. So, think well and make a wise decision before you
decide to purchase one of the varieties.
Coconut Oil as a Carrier Oil: Coconut oil can be very efficient as carrier oil.
Carrier oils hold a place of high importance in Aromatherapy, Ayurveda,
Chinese Medicine and all other systems of treatment that involve massaging.
Carrier oils are those oils which easily penetrate or absorb into the skin and
thus facilitate seepage or absorption of other oils (such as essential oils)
and herbal extracts through the skin when mixed into it. Coconut oil is easily
absorbed through the skin’s pores and thus is used as a carrier oil.
Furthermore, being one of the most stable oils, it doesn’t go rancid, nor does
it let the other oils, herbal extracts, or medicines spoil inside of it. Due to
its anti-fungal and anti-microbial property coconut oil keeps the oils, herbal
extracts and medicines that are mixed in it protected from microbial or fungal
interactions. It also does not alter the properties of the oils and herbs mixed
within it. Coconut oil is expensive in several countries; however, in tropical
countries its cost is low enough to make it affordable as a carrier oil.
Carrier oils hold a place of high importance in Aromatherapy, Ayurveda,
Chinese Medicine and all other systems of treatment that involve massaging.
Carrier oils are those oils which easily penetrate or absorb into the skin and
thus facilitate seepage or absorption of other oils (such as essential oils)
and herbal extracts through the skin when mixed into it. Coconut oil is easily
absorbed through the skin’s pores and thus is used as a carrier oil.
Furthermore, being one of the most stable oils, it doesn’t go rancid, nor does
it let the other oils, herbal extracts, or medicines spoil inside of it. Due to
its anti-fungal and anti-microbial property coconut oil keeps the oils, herbal
extracts and medicines that are mixed in it protected from microbial or fungal
interactions. It also does not alter the properties of the oils and herbs mixed
within it. Coconut oil is expensive in several countries; however, in tropical
countries its cost is low enough to make it affordable as a carrier oil.
Coconut oil extraction
Cold pressing is one of the preferred methods for the extraction of coconut oil.
The quality of coconut oil depends a lot on the method of its extraction.
Basically, there are two main methods of extraction of coconut oil. The first is
cold pressing of copra (dried coconut kernels) and the second is boiling of fresh
coconut milk. Since boiling or heating destroys many nutrients and valuable
components, coconut oil obtained this way is not considered as good as that
obtained by cold pressing, since cold pressing retains much of oil’s goodness.
Machine pressing and bullock/manual pressing are two methods of cold pressing.
The quality of coconut oil depends a lot on the method of its extraction.
Basically, there are two main methods of extraction of coconut oil. The first is
cold pressing of copra (dried coconut kernels) and the second is boiling of fresh
coconut milk. Since boiling or heating destroys many nutrients and valuable
components, coconut oil obtained this way is not considered as good as that
obtained by cold pressing, since cold pressing retains much of oil’s goodness.
Machine pressing and bullock/manual pressing are two methods of cold pressing.
Machine pressing: In this cold pressing is done with the help of an electrically
or diesel-engine driven oil mill. Most of cold pressed oil used in the world is
obtained this way.
or diesel-engine driven oil mill. Most of cold pressed oil used in the world is
obtained this way.
Bullock/manual pressing: The oil obtained this way has a better taste and
fragrance and is more expensive since the production is smaller, it consumes
more time and energy, and wastage is higher. In short, it has a higher price,
lower availability and better quality.
Buying Coconut Oil
fragrance and is more expensive since the production is smaller, it consumes
more time and energy, and wastage is higher. In short, it has a higher price,
lower availability and better quality.
Buying Coconut Oil
First of all, you need to decide why you need coconut oil and where you are
going to use it. Your choice should be based on your need, like whether
you want it for edible purposes or as a carrier oil to be used in aromatherapy,
for massaging, for weight loss, or for medicinal purposes. As mentioned
earlier, there are different varieties for different purposes. Their properties
do not differ much, unless they are mixed with some base or additives that
do not contain 100% coconut oil. Below is a list of such purposes and the
type of coconut oil to buy.
going to use it. Your choice should be based on your need, like whether
you want it for edible purposes or as a carrier oil to be used in aromatherapy,
for massaging, for weight loss, or for medicinal purposes. As mentioned
earlier, there are different varieties for different purposes. Their properties
do not differ much, unless they are mixed with some base or additives that
do not contain 100% coconut oil. Below is a list of such purposes and the
type of coconut oil to buy.
Purpose————–Preferable Type to Buy
Cooking————–Refined Coconut Oil
Weight Loss———Virgin Coconut Oil
As a Carrier Oil—–Virgin Coconut Oil, Fractionated Coconut Oil
Good Health———Virgin Coconut Oil, Organic Coconut Oil
Massaging———–Pure Coconut Oil, Refined Coconut Oil
Hair——————–Pure Coconut Oil, Refined Coconut Oil
Medicinal uses—–Virgin Coconut Oil, Virgin Organic Coconut Oil
Furthermore, before you buy coconut oil, you should keep in mind that for
edible and therapeutic uses, refined coconut oil is the best as it is hygienic
and clean. Unrefined coconut oil is good for external applications like hair
care and skin care.
Where to buy from?: Except some of the special varieties, such as virgin
coconut oil and organic coconut oil, other varieties like pure coconut oil
and refined coconut oil are easily available in most grocery stores,
especially in tropical countries. For special varieties, you may need to
search in larger department stores or drug stores. Things may be a little
different in countries which do not produce coconut oil, like the US, Canada,
and most of Europe. You will need to visit big grocers in these countries
to find different varieties of coconut oil. You can also get coconut oil easily
at grocery stores in localities which have higher populations of people from
India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Philippines, and coastal Africa. Obviously, you
can order it online as well and have it delivered wherever you live.
edible and therapeutic uses, refined coconut oil is the best as it is hygienic
and clean. Unrefined coconut oil is good for external applications like hair
care and skin care.
Where to buy from?: Except some of the special varieties, such as virgin
coconut oil and organic coconut oil, other varieties like pure coconut oil
and refined coconut oil are easily available in most grocery stores,
especially in tropical countries. For special varieties, you may need to
search in larger department stores or drug stores. Things may be a little
different in countries which do not produce coconut oil, like the US, Canada,
and most of Europe. You will need to visit big grocers in these countries
to find different varieties of coconut oil. You can also get coconut oil easily
at grocery stores in localities which have higher populations of people from
India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Philippines, and coastal Africa. Obviously, you
can order it online as well and have it delivered wherever you live.
Which brand to buy?: It is not a problem if someone in your village extracts
coconut oil (quite normal in Philippines, Thailand, Burma, coastal India,
Sri Lanka etc.) and you know that person well or see him/her expelling the
oil. But when you are buying coconut oil in packs, go for the reliable and
reputable brands. Read the contents carefully and check the manufacturing
date (although coconut oil has a long shelf life, fresher is still better).
coconut oil (quite normal in Philippines, Thailand, Burma, coastal India,
Sri Lanka etc.) and you know that person well or see him/her expelling the
oil. But when you are buying coconut oil in packs, go for the reliable and
reputable brands. Read the contents carefully and check the manufacturing
date (although coconut oil has a long shelf life, fresher is still better).
How much to pay? This is a really difficult question to answer. The price
of coconut oil depends on many factors such as its availability (cheaper
where it is produced and more costly in other places, and it is even more
expensive when ordered via phone, Internet etc.). The price is also affected
by demand, variety (the refined one costs the least, followed by
fractionated, virgin, organic and organic virgin coconut oils), brand, and
quantity (buying in bulk costs a little less).
of coconut oil depends on many factors such as its availability (cheaper
where it is produced and more costly in other places, and it is even more
expensive when ordered via phone, Internet etc.). The price is also affected
by demand, variety (the refined one costs the least, followed by
fractionated, virgin, organic and organic virgin coconut oils), brand, and
quantity (buying in bulk costs a little less).
How much to buy? Buy only as much you can consume in few months,
because despite the fact that coconut oil does not go rancid for a long time,
it is not wise to store it unnecessarily. You will get better results with fresh
coconut oil.
Storage: After you buy coconut oil, the next question should relate to storage.
In colder countries, coconut oil comes in good, broad containers. However, if
you get it in a pack (tetra-pack or plastic pouch), after opening the pack, be
sure to keep the oil in containers with tight lid and broad mouth so that you
can scoop it out with a spoon if it solidifies. Keeping it sealed or lidded is
necessary because there are other admirers of coconut oil (ants,
cockroaches, other insects and rodents just love it!).
because despite the fact that coconut oil does not go rancid for a long time,
it is not wise to store it unnecessarily. You will get better results with fresh
coconut oil.
Storage: After you buy coconut oil, the next question should relate to storage.
In colder countries, coconut oil comes in good, broad containers. However, if
you get it in a pack (tetra-pack or plastic pouch), after opening the pack, be
sure to keep the oil in containers with tight lid and broad mouth so that you
can scoop it out with a spoon if it solidifies. Keeping it sealed or lidded is
necessary because there are other admirers of coconut oil (ants,
cockroaches, other insects and rodents just love it!).
This article is from Organic Facts and you can read it here:-
http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-oils/organic-coconut-oil/health-benefits-of-coconut-oil.html
http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-oils/organic-coconut-oil/health-benefits-of-coconut-oil.html
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