What is Coconut Oil? What is it Used For? How to Choose High-Quality Coconut Oil? Today, we will clear up all your doubts about coconut oil and explain its many uses. How to use coconut oil.
The Origin of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is extracted from the flesh of the coconut through pressing. Although there are many brands and manufacturers in the market, in general, we can say that there are two types of coconut oil: extra virgin coconut oil and refined coconut oil.
Virgin Coconut Oil
Virgin coconut oil is extracted using traditional methods without exposure to heat or chemical processes. It is the only way to ensure that the coconut’s beneficial properties remain intact.
Refined Coconut Oil
Refined coconut oil goes through various refining processes, during which it can be altered through heat, hydrogenation or the addition of chemicals, resulting in the loss of much of its nutritional benefits.
Therefore, it is important to always choose virgin and organic coconut oil to ensure its good quality and free of chemicals.
Another important point to clarify is that, although some manufacturers use the term “extra virgin,” this designation is only applicable to olive oil (due to its unique production process and organoleptic and nutritional properties).
How to use coconut oil
Coconut oil is primarily food and we are going to explore its culinary uses below. However, beyond diet, it´s also used as a natural cosmetic and hygiene product. Here are 10 ways to use coconut oil to enhance your health:
Add to Your Green Smoothies
Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to your smoothies will give them an extra energy-boost plus healthy fat. It can also reduce the oxidation of fatty acids (especially Omega-3) found in leafy greens when they come into contact with blender blades.
Pre-Workout Energy
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition concluded that virgin coconut oil helps boost metabolism. According to the researchers, study participants who consumed 2 tablespoons of coconut oil per day burned more fat than those who did not. Additionally, its consumption increases energy levels and helps reduce unwanted fat, contributing to better muscle development.
For Cooking
Contrary to popular belief, the content of saturated fat in coconut oil (90%) offers lots of health benefits. Why? Because, unlike unhealthy fats, these are medium-chain fatty acids, which are metabolized directly in the liver and then converted to energy instead of being stored as fat.
Moreover, unlike other vegetable oils, coconut oil is very stable and does not oxidize when heated, maintaining its molecular structure, making it one of the best options for cooking.
For mouth Health
Oil pulling is one of the most natural and effective techniques for maintaining good mouth health. This Ayurvedic cleaning method is quite simple: it involves swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil in the mouth for about 20 minutes before discarding it. During this time, coconut oil traps toxins from the mouth walls, teeth and tongue, resulting in a clean and toxin-free oral environment.
As Toothpaste
Mixing coconut oil with pHour Salts creates a simple, high-quality natural toothpaste free from toxins, fluoride or other toxic chemicals.
For Hair Care
Coconut oil is ideal as a natural treatment to repaire damaged, dry or frizzy hair since it is 100% natural and contains no alcohols, silicones or other chemicals. The lauric and capric acids present in it help strengthen hair from the inside out, adding shine and silkiness and preventing tangles, breakage, and split ends. Coconut oil can be used as a pre-wash mask by saturating the hair, massaging it in and letting it sit for 20 minutes before washing; as a moisturizer to help detangle by applying a small amount to damp hair after washing; and as an anti-dandruff treatment by applying a small amount to the scalp, as coconut oil is also fungicidal.
For Shaving
Replacing shaving cream and/or depilatory creams with coconut oil is an excellent option, especially for those with sensitive skin prone to irritation from chemical products. Daily or frequent shaving with blades can cause irritation and dryness by stripping the skin’s protective layer. Applying coconut oil before shaving creates a thin protective film that shields the skin from razor irritation.
To Protect and Moisturize the Skin
As mentioned earlier, coconut oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties. In addition, using it as a body moisturizer will deeply hydrate your skin and protect it from UV rays and free radicals, preventing the formation of spots and wrinkles. It can also be used to keep your lips protected and moisturized.
As a Makeup Remover
Coconut oil can be used as a makeup remover thanks to its natural, gentle texture that cares for and respects facial skin, including the delicate area around the eyes. It can be applied using a cotton pad with a small amount of coconut oil or mixed with warm water as a facial cleansing soap.
