Coconut oil and its use in food - for health, beauty and weight loss. Coconut oil for food Coconut oil for food recipes
Many exotic fruits can now be freely purchased even in small towns, and even more so in large supermarkets. This opportunity allows us to gain not only new taste experiences, but also new ingredients for preparing interesting dishes and even surprisingly effective personal care products. Thus, one of the affordable and popular exotic fruits is coconut. An amazingly healthy oil - coconut - is extracted from it. Coconut oil has a wide range of uses in cooking. Let's discuss it in a little more detail.
Coconut oil is a healthy and at the same time very tasty food product. It is extracted from the dried pulp of an exotic nut. First, such raw materials are separated from the shell, then dried and crushed, and then pressed to obtain oil. The resulting liquid has a slightly sweetish, pleasant aroma and a not very noticeable nutty taste. Today you can find refined and unrefined oil, edible or cosmetic, on sale. Readers of “Popular About Health” should prefer unrefined, cold-pressed oil; it is considered the most useful and of the highest quality.
Use of oil in cooking
Since coconut oil contains many saturated fatty acids, it practically does not undergo oxidation processes. Thanks to this, such a product can be stored for a long time. Coconut oil is practically incapable of reacting with air, which is why it can be kept even outside the refrigerator.
Such an exotic product remains healthy and tasty even with significant heating; it does not begin to taste bitter. Because of this, it is great for frying and deep-frying without becoming carcinogenic.
It is recommended to use coconut oil as an alternative to butter in cooking various dishes. To make consumption more economical, food can be cooked in ghee or vegetable oil, and towards the end of the cooking process, add a little coconut oil. Thanks to this additive, even ordinary and simple dishes can become delicious.
Coconut oil is used in preparing various hot dishes. It is added to soups, pasta, cereal side dishes, vegetable dishes, sauces and hot appetizers.
This oil can also be an excellent component in confectionery and baked goods. Thanks to this additive, cakes, cookies, cheesecakes, pancakes, casseroles, pancakes and muffins are saturated with a particularly pleasant aroma and taste. Housewives note that baked goods with coconut oil remain fluffy and fresh much longer.
This exotic oil is suitable for stewing vegetables and for preparing various vegetable stews. Even ordinary pilaf or rice, to which such an ingredient is added, can be transformed and become special, unusual and even sophisticated.
A small amount of coconut oil can be added to milk porridge for breakfast. It will make porridge with millet, oatmeal, rice, buckwheat, corn and wheat grains especially healthy. Some housewives have expanded its use in cooking: the use of oil has given an amazing taste to delicious sweets and healthy dessert balls made from dried fruits and nuts. In addition, this component added benefits to milk soup, milkshake and hot chocolate. They also spread it on toast.
Application of coconut oil. Why it's useful?
Systematic inclusion of coconut oil in food can bring enormous benefits to a person. Such a product will be an excellent alternative to the usual butter and vegetable oil, especially when preparing food that is subject to heat treatment.
Coconut oil contains a number of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are extremely important for the full functioning of the body. Our body is not able to synthesize them on its own, so such substances must enter it with food. And coconut oil can be one of the optimal sources of such fatty acids. In addition, this exotic product saturates the body with calcium, phosphorus and a number of vitamins, represented by provitamin A, tocopherol and ascorbic acid. All these particles have a positive effect on the body’s condition and well-being, and contribute to the preservation of beauty and youth.
To achieve a therapeutic and preventive effect, you can add coconut oil to your dishes. Also, many experts advise taking it one or two tablespoons in the morning on an empty stomach, with a significant amount of water. It is best to start taking it with a minimum amount - half a teaspoon, and then the dosage can be increased.
Consumption of coconut oil perfectly strengthens the immune system, optimizes metabolism, and improves the condition of skin and hair. Also, such a product prevents atherosclerosis, heart and cancer diseases, improves digestion, the activity of the thyroid gland and brain.
Possible harm
Coconut oil is virtually harmless to humans if consumed in moderation. The only absolute contraindication for use of oil is the presence of individual intolerance. People who suffer from irritation of the digestive tract, exacerbations of chronic cholecystitis or pancreatitis need to take this oil in a minimal dosage with extreme caution.
If a person wants to be healthy, he must not only eliminate unhealthy foods from his diet, but also enrich his diet with the help of so-called superfoods. Coconut oil is rightfully considered one of the most balanced food components for food. This is what we will talk about today.
Unique combination of fatty acids
By consuming the required amount of fruits and vegetables, meat and milk, herbs and seafood every day, a person nevertheless cannot do without fats. Fatty acids have a tremendous impact on human health. Scientists have proven that the combination of vegetable saturated fats in coconut oil has a positive effect on the processes occurring in the body. The same cannot be said for saturated animal fats.
Having received the first confirmation of their assumptions, scientists began to study natural coconut oil in depth and identified a number of striking points. It turns out that people who eat this product are least susceptible to various diseases. In other words, they can be considered the healthiest people on the planet.
What diseases can be forgotten?
Naturally, in the conditions of central Russia you can surprise the mass consumer. Here people are still just getting acquainted with this product, so they studied, first of all, African tribes where coconut oil is absorbed daily. In some tribes, coconuts and their derivatives are almost the only available type of food and saturate the body of the aborigines with more than 60% of the daily diet. In such tribes, people do not know about the problems of the heart and blood vessels. From this we can conclude that coconut oil for food does not have a negative effect on the general condition of a person, even if consumed in large quantities.
The saturated fats contained in coconut oil are metabolized in the body, passing from the stomach straight to the liver. And already in the liver, these substances form ketone bodies, which have a positive effect on the nervous system, in particular on the brain.
Coconut oil for food: positive effect on obesity
Yes, yes, paradoxically, it is the “right” fat that can contribute to weight loss. After all, nutritionists have long proven that it is not the number of calories that is important, but the source of them. Thus, triglycerides contained in coconut oil, during metabolism, significantly increase energy expenditure, which consequently leads to weight loss. If you take a comprehensive approach to solving the problem, then it is quite possible to achieve good results in burning extra pounds.
Dulls the feeling of hunger
How many of us dream of not experiencing an acute feeling of hunger, especially when we try to limit ourselves in food. Now all those suffering have a panacea. It turns out that coconut can easily dull the feeling of hunger, and, in addition, stock up on such important energy. Scientists have proven that they reduce appetite by conducting an interesting experiment in which men participated. Insignificant consumption of the product in the morning led to the fact that, compared to the usual diet, each man on average absorbed 250 fewer calories per day.
What is the function of lauric acid?
We are introducing you to an amazing and unique product called coconut oil. We’ll tell you how to use the product a little later, but for now, using the example of some fatty acids, we’ll look at all its positive properties. It accounts for more than half of the total composition of the product. When the substance is broken down by enzymes during metabolism, the acid is converted into monolaurin, which can effectively resist various viral bacteria and fungi. Thus, edible oils can prevent the occurrence of infectious diseases of various origins and act as a prophylactic agent.
Spin technology
It is not the coconut pulp that is used for pressing, but the copra - the layer between the pulp and the shell. At the initial stage, the nut is peeled, the copra is separated from the pulp, dried and crushed. The ground coconut copra is then pressed in two ways:
- hot pressing method;
- gentle cold pressing.
When cold pressed, the output is much less of the finished product, however, the oil retains the most valuable substances contained in the coconut. That is why coconut oil produced using cold-pressing technology is much more expensive than its counterpart extracted using the traditional, hot method. Interestingly, with hot pressing, 1 kg of copra yields an average of 300 ml of the finished product.
Types of Coconut Oil
Like all vegetable oils produced on the planet, the copra extraction product is divided into refined coconut oil and unrefined (unrefined). To refine the oil, purification is carried out using high pressure. Purified, refined oil is transparent in appearance and lacks a pleasant tart tropical aroma. But unrefined oil has a characteristic odor and a milky white or yellowish tint. Interestingly, at temperatures below 25 degrees, coconut oil can harden and turn into a kind of granular mass.
How to store the product?
Once you buy coconut oil for food, you don’t have to worry about how to store it. This product practically does not spoil. The high content of saturated acids almost completely prevents the oxidation process.
Areas of use
- In cosmetology for enriching creams, masks, balms, lotions and other cosmetics.
- In the production of margarines.
- As a component of suppositories and medicinal ointments.
- In the confectionery industry.
- As an alternative fuel in some countries.
Use in cooking
Coconut edible oils in Asian cuisine are often used as a dressing for fresh vegetable salads - this is the main use of the product. However, cooks in Southeast Asia revere the presented oil so much that they are ready to flavor everything in the world with it: from meat and seafood, to traditional rice and spicy vegetables.
Don’t be afraid to fry in coconut oil, because, as we remember, its composition practically does not oxidize, which means that everything valuable will be preserved even during heat treatment. Ideally, despite the high price, to maintain your health, you can avoid our traditional vegetable oils, which contain high levels of cholesterol. By replacing sunflower or olive oil with coconut oil, we get absolutely harmless fried food.
Cooks prepare cottage cheese casserole, cheesecakes, sweet desserts, pancakes with fruit fillings, adding coconut oil to the dish. Cooks' recipes also recommend using the presented product as an addition to porridges, milk soups, various cocktails, for baby food, and also as an additive to cocoa and coffee. Coconut oil can be used to replace the usual option for freshly prepared toast.
For disease prevention
To strengthen the immune system and increase the body's resistance to various viral infections, start taking coconut oil one teaspoon in the morning on an empty stomach and in the evening before bed. Gradually the single dose is increased to two tablespoons.
Coconut muffins recipe
And in conclusion, we offer you a recipe for a delicious dessert with coconut oil and vanilla extract. To prepare the dish you will need the following ingredients:
- flour - 0.5 cups;
- coconut flakes - 3/4 cup;
- Greek yogurt (warm) - 250 g;
- sugar - a third of a glass;
- coconut oil - 120 g;
- fresh chicken egg - 1 piece;
- vanilla sugar - 1 teaspoon;
- salt - 1/4 teaspoon;
- baking powder - 1 tablespoon.
Take a saucepan, melt the coconut oil and heat it slightly. In one bowl, mix flour, half a portion of coconut flakes, salt and baking powder, and in another bowl, beat egg, sugar, heated coconut and Greek yogurt. Then combine both mixtures. Place the dough into muffin tins, after lightly sprinkling them with oil. Decorate the top with coconut shavings and place in an oven preheated to 180 degrees for 20 minutes.
Enjoy your tea!
Diverse and due to its unique composition. Coconut oil contains lauric acid (44-52%), myristic acid (13-19%), palmitic acid (7.5-10.5%), capric acid (4.5-10%), caprylic acid (6.0-9.7 %), oleic (5-8%), stearic (1.0-3.0%), nylon (0.2-2.0%), linoleic (1.5-2.8%), hexadecenic (up to 1.3%) fatty acids. It almost does not react with air and even without a refrigerator remains usable for several years.
Coconut oil is considered the most suitable for balancing. Thanks to its cooling properties, it soothes, refreshes and cools the mind and emotions.
Benefits of coconut oil for external use
- Help for hair.Coconut oil is one of the best sources of nutrients that keep hair healthy. It promotes their growth and adds shine. Regular scalp massage with coconut oil gets rid of dandruff, lice and nits, and also restores damaged hair, providing it with the necessary proteins. Therefore, coconut oil is used in the production of various hair balms and creams.
- Relieving stress load. Coconut oil has a calming effect and hence helps relieve stress. Applying coconut oil to the scalp followed by a gentle massage eliminates mental fatigue.
- Help the skin.Coconut oil is also an excellent massage product for the skin in general. It acts as an intense moisturizer for all skin types, including dry skin. The benefits of coconut oil for skin are comparable to those of mineral oil. However, unlike mineral oil, it has no harmful side effects. Thus, coconut oil prevents dryness and flaking of the skin without causing side effects. It also inhibits the formation of wrinkles and age-related sagging skin.
- Coconut oil helps in treating psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin conditions, which is why it is used as a base ingredient in various skin care products - soaps, lotions, creams, etc.
- is an ideal product for caring for the delicate skin of babies and children.
- Coconut oil is recommended for women to prevent osteoporosis, as it promotes the process of complete absorption of calcium.
Coconut oil for massage
Coconut oil is suitable for (Pitta people) - a full oil massage of the whole body. This massage is beneficial for the whole body, it tones, strengthens the body, and helps improve sleep.
For Pitta-type arthritis, it is recommended to lubricate the affected joints with coconut oil. Thanks to its cooling effect, it will help relieve inflammation and pain. (Pitta arthritis is characterized by pain, inflammation, and swelling of the joints, with pain relieved by cold compresses.)
For inflammation and bleeding gums, it is recommended to massage them with coconut oil.
Using coconut oil on the face:
The beneficial properties of coconut oil are determined by its composition, the main percentage of which is hyaluronic, lauric, myristic, and other saturated fatty acids. Thanks to these acids, the oil has a solid consistency, but is quickly absorbed into the skin. Using coconut oil can literally soften and smooth your skin in seconds, giving it a smooth and velvety appearance.
! Applicationcoconut oil helps maintain the health and beauty of any skin type, but it is especially recommended for dry, flaky, rough, and aging facial skin .
Coconut oil has excellent nourishing, softening and moisturizing properties, and after its application it forms its own invisible film on the skin, which performs protective functions and maintains the optimal balance of moisture in the skin for a long time. Using, you can quickly eliminate excessive dryness and flaking of the skin, protect it from roughening and the formation of cracks.
Coconut oil helps to significantly smooth out the skin and the shallow wrinkles present on it, increase the overall tone, firmness and elasticity of the skin, which makes it an ideal product for caring for already sluggish, flabby and aging skin.
You can use coconut oil on your face, lubricating it only with the most problematic areas of the skin (peeling, roughness, inflammation, irritation, etc.).
Coconut oil can be applied in its pure form. Based on it, you can make masks for the skin, face and hair. Also, coke oil can be used together with other moisturizing and nourishing agents for better absorption of nutrients.
Uses of coconut oil for hair:
Most often, coconut oil is used as a mask.
Apply the oil 30 minutes before washing your hair (you can leave it overnight). The oil is applied with massage movements from roots to ends, then washed off with shampoo. If you leave the oil on all night, it is advisable to put a plastic cap or scarf on your head so as not to stain your bedding, and also to improve the absorption of the nutrients in the oil. Then rinse with shampoo (the shampoo will need to be applied several times).
Coconut oil can be added to your favorite masks (thereby enriching them), a couple of drops is enough.
When using pure coconut oil, be careful with the amount. Since excess oil on the hair complicates the process of washing it off.
Using coconut oil for tanning
Natural coconut oil is often used in its pure form before and after sunbathing.
Benefits of use:
- promotes an even, tropical tan
- moisturizes the skin for a long time
- prevents your skin from drying out
- prevents the appearance of premature wrinkles
- absorbs quickly and does not leave a greasy sheen
- hypoallergenic
- Gently rubbing into the skin after sunbathing will soften the skin and ease the burning sensation if you are sunburned.
Coconut oil can be used in a solarium, both before a session (attracts a tan and also prevents the skin from burning and drying out), and after a session to once again moisturize the skin.
Special creams for solariums do not affect the protection of the skin, they simply speed up the tanning process and slightly moisturize, and besides, the creams contain a lot of harmful chemicals. Coconut oil is a completely natural product and has no side effects.
Coconut oil for stretch marks:
Coconut oil contains vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant. Thanks to the ability of this vitamin to protect cell membranes and prevent their oxidation. This vitamin, when applied to the skin, protects skin cells from degeneration, therefore, among other things, it is used in the treatment of stretch marks. The property of coconut oil, as an excellent moisturizer, also has a positive effect on solving this problem.
Using coconut oil for skin as a nourishing and moisturizing agent:
- Shower with an exfoliating scrub.
- Without leaving the bath, apply the oil to the skin with massaging movements.
- Rinse off the oil with warm water and dry your skin gently with a towel. A very thin layer of coconut oil will remain on your skin.
Using coconut oil together with other oils and cosmetics :
To choose the most suitable oils for your skin, read the descriptions of each of them first. The proportions of the mixtures can be unlimited, but usually 1 part coconut oil is used to 2-3 parts of the other oil used.
In order to stir them, you must first melt the coconut oil in a water bath until liquid, and then add the other oil. The mixture must be stirred immediately and poured into some pre-prepared jar.
The oil preparation prepared at home can again be used as a cream for the face and for the skin around the eyes, for massage of the face and neck, or simply in the form of masks, applying the oil composition to the face for 20-30 minutes.
To add coconut oil to ready-made cosmetic creams, or, for example, to skin cleansers (milk, lotions, tonics), it is better to mix the oil with a single part of the product used. To do this, you need to melt a piece of butter in your fingers, in your hand, or simply in contact with your face, lubricate your skin with it, apply a spot cream on top, and then smear it together with the oil.
If coconut oil has thickened, then this fact only confirms its naturalness (melting point +25 degrees Celsius). For In order for the oil to melt, place the jar under running warm water or store it in a warm place, for example in the bathroom.
Revitalizing lip balm with coconut oil.
Grate a small piece of beeswax on a fine grater and melt over the fire until liquid. Then add 1 tbsp to it. l. coconut oil, 1 tsp. shea butter and cocoa butter. Stir until smooth and remove from heat. After this, add a few drops of essential oils (violet, rose or lavender) to the mixture. If you still have an empty tube of lip balm or lipstick, then pour the resulting mass into it, and when it cools down, use it as a natural balm.
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Coconut oil is obtained from dried copra (nut pulp) of the coconut palm - Cocos nucifera L. (arecaceae or palm family - Arecaceae or Palmae). The coconut palm is a tree with an erect trunk 15-30 m high, on which ring scars formed by fallen leaves are noticeable. The palm leaves are large, up to 6 m long, grouped in groups of 15-30 at the top of the stem. The flowers are collected in very large inflorescences - complex panicles up to 1-2 m long, surrounded by a woody blanket that opens when blooming. The flowers in the panicle are unisexual. Female flowers are large, up to 3 cm in diameter, yellow, located in the lower part of the inflorescence. Male flowers are small, concentrated in the upper part of the inflorescence. The fruit is a dry drupe (coconut) 20-30 cm long, weighing 1.5-2 kg, ripens within 10-12 months. The name coconut comes from the Portuguese word "soso", which means "monkey", due to the peculiar resemblance of the endocarp of the fruit to a monkey's face. The nut pulp contains 60-65% valuable fatty oil. The cavity of an unripe nut contains up to 0.5 liters of clear, cool, sour-sweet, thirst-quenching liquid, rich in sugar and vitamins. As the fruit ripens, droplets of oil appear in the liquid, causing it to become a white emulsion called coconut milk. It tastes even more pleasant, but no longer quenches thirst. Subsequently, the liquid thickens and thickens, turning into a white pulp called copra. |
In the Maldives, coconut oil is mixed with fenugreek (shamballa, fenugreek), sandalwood and cinnamon: these mixtures improve blood circulation, toning the scalp.
In Tahiti, coconut oil is infused with red jasmine to create the emollient, conditioning aromatic oil Monoi.
In Indonesia, women simply wash their hair with coconut milk.
Simple Recipes for Using Coconut Oil:
Conditioning spa mixture for dry and weak hair from the island of Sumatra:
- 2 tbsp. avacado oil;
- 2 tbsp. coconut oil;
- 2 tsp natural yogurt;
- Juice of 1/2 lemon;
- Two drops of sandalwood or rosemary essential oils.
Apply the mixture to your hair and leave for at least 30 minutes. Rinse off first with cool water, then with shampoo.
Balinese anti-dandruff remedy:
- 1 tbsp. sea salt;
- 1 tsp dried mint, crushed into powder;
- 1 tbsp. warm honey.
- One drop each of peppermint and black pepper essential oils.
Mix the ingredients until a paste-like mixture is formed. Rub the mixture into your scalp for 10 minutes. Leave for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with shampoo.
Indian mask-shine Masala:
- 1 tsp. black pepper grains, coriander, and cumin seeds;
- 1/4 tsp. cloves, cardamom seeds and ground cinnamon;
- 2 tbsp. l. coconut oil.
Grind the spices in a mortar. Store them in a cool place. Before use, heat 2 teaspoons of the mixture in 2 tablespoons of coconut oil for 15 minutes. Rub the mixture into dry hair. Then cover your head with a towel and leave for at least 20 minutes. Wash off with shampoo.
Maldivian softening wrap:
- 2 tbsp. coconut oil;
- 1/2 crushed cinnamon stick;
- 6 drops of sandalwood essential oil;
Heat the spice with coconut oil for 15 minutes. Strain. Add essential oil. Rub the mixture into your scalp and distribute through your hair. Leave the mask on for 1-4 hours and then wash off with shampoo.
Coconut oil contains a unique combination of fatty acids, making it rightfully considered one of the most versatile and healthy foods. It is obtained by grinding, drying and then pressing copra coconuts. This product is used in various fields, but it is especially valuable in cooking.
The benefits and harms of coconut oil for nutrition
When consuming coconut oil for food, it is worth considering that the product brings both benefits and harm.
Beneficial features:
- promotes acceleration;
- rids the body of excess cholesterol;
- promotes cell renewal;
- fights excess weight;
- fights germs, viruses and fungal infections.
In addition, coconut oil has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system, thyroid function, and strengthens. This is an excellent preventative against osteoporosis, gastritis and ulcers.
Despite the fact that coconut oil is loved in cooking for its benefits for the body, we should not forget about the harm. First of all, excessive consumption can cause food poisoning. In addition, an allergic reaction is possible if you are individually intolerant to the product.
The benefit of coconut oil when consumed is that it can be used to lose weight without harm. After all, the healthy fats contained in coconut, unlike others, are not deposited and are processed by the body into energy. True, in order for coconut oil to bring benefits and no harm when losing weight, you need to use only a high-quality product, which is obtained by cold pressing. This method, unlike the refined version, retains all the beneficial properties and components. Like any other product, coconut oil in the diet is harmful only if abused, but its benefits are undeniable.
from hot pressed oil? Which coconut oil is suitable for food and which is suitable for external use? The answers to these and other questions are in this article.
Today, more and more often on store shelves you can find products made on its basis. Many consider this variety to be a common marketing ploy, and the use of coconut oil in food is nothing more than a fad. However, for many peoples it has long become a traditional ingredient, and has been used for several thousand years. Research proving the benefits of coconut oil has also been conducted for a relatively long time. For example, lauric acid, which is part of it, has been used for more than 50 years to combat pathogenic bacteria. And in Europe and the USA, coconut oil has long been considered a favorite ingredient of bakery manufacturers, as it has a long shelf life and a melting point of 76 degrees.
However, these benefits really fade when doctors start rattling off a list of coconut oil's medical "achievements." It helps even in extreme situations. For example, it is considered a real salvation for patients with hypothyroidism (or hypothyroidism). This is a body condition characterized by decreased production of thyroid hormone, which may be associated with dysfunction of the thyroid gland. Coconut oil Helps improve metabolism and increase body temperature to promote thyroid health. Limiting carbohydrates and increasing coconut oil in your diet can also help you lose weight. By applying the oil directly to the skin, you can fight various skin conditions. The effect of oil on hair is also priceless. Another plus: it helps in the fight against infections and viruses. today it increasingly attracts athletes and fitness trainers, maintaining the necessary level of energy in the body without drugs or stimulants.
Cold pressed coconut oilVS hot pressed oil
However, in order to fully enjoy all the beneficial properties of coconut oil, you need to choose the right product. But how to do this if there are dozens of types of coconut oil on the market and all at different prices? It's very simple - you just need to read the information on the label. And the first thing that will interest us is squeezing coconut oil. If the label says Virgin or Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, it is an oil obtained using cold-pressed technology. If the label simply says Coconut Oil without further details, then this is a hot-pressed product, or a mixture of refined and unrefined coconut oil. We'll deal with refining a little later, but for now a few words about hot and cold pressing.
The fact is that coconut oil, like all other types of vegetable oils, by its nature is already a processed product because it does not grow on a tree. All coconut oils must first be extracted from the coconut, so from a technical point of view, they are not 100% natural, as they involve some kind of processing process. The whole question is what kind of process. Humanity has essentially come up with only two ways to extract oil from coconut pulp: cold-pressed and hot-pressed. Cold pressing is more gentle and allows you to retain much more nutrients. Fresh coconut pulp is cold pressed and the oil is squeezed out using a regular press. One thousand mature coconuts, weighing 1440 kg, yield approximately 170 kg of pulp, from which only 70 liters of the highest quality coconut oil can be cold pressed. This oil (extra virgin) is the most natural, retaining the most beneficial substances. The only negative is that oil obtained in this way will be more expensive.
The hot or “dry” processing method (hot pressing) involves drying the coconut flesh in special ovens or in the sun. Then oil is extracted from it using the same pressing or chemicals. As you understand, this method is much less delicate, which means it does not spare the beneficial substances contained in the oil.
Unrefined VS refined
Now we move on to the notorious refining process. If a jar of coconut oil says Extra Virgin or Virgin, it is 100% unrefined oil. If the package says Refined or RBD, it is refined oil. Refined oil is most often obtained from hot-pressed oils. What is the refining process? In simple terms, all phospholipids, metals (they are also in the oil, of course), minerals, salts, free fatty acids, natural flavors (the smell of coconut) and white are separated from the oil by heating, adding water, various acids and sodium hydroxide. - yellowish color. The result is an oil that lasts a couple of years longer, has a clearer color, less odor, is easier to transport, does not clump, and is more resistant to temperature changes. From a trading point of view, this is an ideal product. Only there are much fewer useful substances in refined oil - after all, the amino acids, minerals and salts that coconut oil is rich in are precisely removed during refining.
What is unrefined coconut oil used for?
Now about which coconut oil is used for what. It is interesting because it can be used both in cooking and in cosmetology. It is ideal for children's and dietary diets. You can add coconut oil to almost all dishes; it is suitable for desserts, soups, salads, and drinks.
As if enveloping all the insides, it heals damaged mucous membranes, so it is especially useful to use it internally for patients with ulcers, and the active fight against pathogenic bacteria, which we talked about at the beginning, makes it indispensable for patients with gastritis, gastroduodenitis and diseases of the duodenum. Another spectrum of action is associated with the removal of cholesterol, the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis.
It is also useful for losing weight. To get rid of excess weight and prevent obesity, it is recommended to drink 1 glass of warm water with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil before each meal.
If unrefined coconut oil Do not use it internally, but just rinse your mouth with it, you can already achieve an excellent effect. Fifteen minutes of rinsing with a tablespoon of oil will relieve bad breath, diseases of the teeth and oral cavity. Although we still recommend taking a sip of the miraculous oil. Among other things, it has an anti-stress effect, and this is really important in our time.
For cosmetic purposes, unrefined coconut oil can help treat psoriasis, dermatitis or eczema. Experts also recommend using coconut oil as an additive to creams, tonics and lotions. Then the products you already know will acquire a moisturizing and softening effect. Coconut oil is also indispensable during the beach season. Apply before tanning - the vitamin E included in the composition will protect against excessive ultraviolet radiation, apply after sunbathing - protect against discomfort, a feeling of tightness and redness. Unrefined coconut oil can even be used in a solarium! Both for tanning and against sunburn.
What is refined coconut oil used for?
Refined coconut oil is also valuable. But exclusively for external use. It is used to get rid of cracked heels or rough skin on the elbows, and for hair care. It is recommended to add both refined and unrefined coconut oil to masks, balms and hair conditioners; you can treat split ends with it. With constant use, hair will become more manageable, shiny and silky.
The great Cleopatra used the beneficial properties of coconut or palm oil without hesitation. The concubines rubbed it daily into the queen's skin and hair. So what is the benefit and how to use it correctly.
Composition and beneficial properties
All the beneficial qualities of the product are due to its composition.
- lauric acid heals wounds, cuts, disinfects them, fights bacteria, fungi, viruses;
- myristic helps creams to absorb into the skin faster;
- hyaluronic acid maintains water balance in the skin;
- oleic retains moisture in the skin, restores the epidermis, removes cholesterol and excess fat, and is good for heart patients;
- caprylic normalizes the level of acid-base ratio, saturates skin cells with oxygen;
- capric – an assistant for caprylic and lauric acids in destroying microbes and strengthening immune forces.
It also contains two important vitamins that are responsible for our beauty. These are vitamin A and vitamin E. The article “Benefits of sea buckthorn oil” has already been described in detail about their effect on the body. There are vitamins: group B, K, C. And useful elements: calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus. Calorie content of 100 grams of product is 882 kcal.
Application
Fat is used both in unrefined and refined forms.
For face.
Skin recipes use a refined product. If it turns into a hard lump, this indicates naturalness. Take a piece in your hand, wait until it begins to melt and apply an even layer to the skin of the face and décolleté. The product protects against hot sun rays and frosty wind during the day, and nourishes at night.
Remember the benefits of ghee, sesame, cottonseed or any other. Now you will create an effective mixture. If the coconut fat has become hard, heat it in a water bath and add the remaining ingredients to the already melted fat. Pour into a jar and apply as a mask or cream on the face, décolleté, even for the eyelids.
What are the benefits of coconut oil? Dry skin becomes smooth and tightened, but without greasy shine. Women with this type will certainly appreciate the ability of this product to nourish dry skin - it stops flaking and the feeling of tightness disappears.
The product is also useful for young people and teenagers. Due to its antibacterial properties, coconut oil helps get rid of acne and all kinds of irritations on the face. Surprisingly, the product is suitable for both oily skin with rashes and dry skin.
Mask recipe. In a bowl, mix a spoonful of sour cream and honey, add 12-15 drops of coconut pulp oil. Instead of sour cream, you can use milk. Keep the mask on your face for 18-20 minutes. Wash off with tonic and warm water.
And here is a product for eyelashes to make them long and thick. Apply a couple of drops of oil to the brush, comb your eyelashes and go to bed.
For skin.
Protects against skin-damaging ultraviolet rays, protects against sunburn and allows the tan to spread evenly over the body. This is for tanning. And after sunbathing, smear your body so that you feel cool and your skin calms down and recovers after sunbathing.
For hair.
No matter how expensive the shampoo, it still pulls building protein out of the hair. Therefore, the hair becomes dry and dull. Use pure coconut oil for hair like Cleopatra. By making a mask before showering, you will protect your hair from the effects of shampoo.
Apply the mask for half an hour or overnight on your hair from the very roots to the ends - for short hair, 0.5 spoons of product is enough, for long hair, two. Try not to get it on the roots so as not to clog the pores. Then wash off with daily shampoo.
For body.
If it has such a positive effect on the skin of the face and hair, imagine its effect on the skin of the body, on our arms, legs, and nails. So, this product restores the skin after the hair removal procedure, moisturizing and cooling.
In its pure form or as an oil-based mask, it is a salvation for hands and nails. Nails become strong and healthy, the nail bed becomes smooth and even. Your hands will become silky and smooth.
This softening effect is especially noticeable for the feet. If you oil your feet before going to bed, massage them and put on cotton socks on top, then in the morning you won’t recognize the skin on your feet - the cracks are healed, the skin on the heels is smooth, even, no dryness.
For weight loss.
Gets rid of stretch marks - lubricate problem areas. And if you wrap yourself in film on top, cellulite disappears (remember the property of the product to eliminate excess fat) and your tummy becomes smaller. True, it is still better to combine such wraps with physical activity.
To lose weight, the product is taken orally. Dosage – 1 spoon in the morning, not before breakfast, but instead of it. Hard? Then replace all vegetable fat with coconut fat - this is one of the conditions for dietary nutrition. The daily amount of calories should not exceed 1200.
In the food industry
How to use coconut oil? In Southeast Asian countries, coconut oil is used for food. They season salads and use it to make popcorn. You can also use it for food – cook meat, rice, seafood, and vegetables with it. Edible coconut oil is famous for its ability to not oxidize and retain its properties at elevated temperatures. Therefore, you can fry chops, cutlets, pancakes in coconut oil.
Can you eat coconut oil? Why not. Yes, it is high in calories, but unlike animal fats, it does not contain a single gram of cholesterol. So, don't limit yourself and use coconut oil for cooking.
It is also found in baby food, milk porridges, soups, baked goods, and cottage cheese dishes. Add to hot chocolate and milkshakes. And in Asian countries you can find coconut oil in infant formula.
In cosmetology
We have already described the effect of oil on the skin above. Use:
- In soap making as a base.
- When making scrubs.
- In balms, lotions, masks for dry skin.
- For nails and hand skin.
- After shaving, hair removal, during and after tanning.
- As a base for massage products.
For illnesses
And such a valuable product has been used in medicine. This is not a complete list of diseases and organs for the treatment or prevention of which it is effective.
- Atherosclerosis.
- Thrombosis.
- Vessels and heart.
- Hypertension.
- Antioxidant action.
- Thyroid.
- Stomach, pancreas, intestines.
- Gastritis, ulcer.
- Diabetes.
- Liver kidney.
- Caries.
- Osteoporosis.
- Immunity.
- Dermatitis, psoriasis.
Eat a spoonful in the morning or dissolve it in a glass of water and drink the product.
At the pharmacy
Usually the product is brought from Thailand. Where is coconut oil sold in the country? In Thai markets, supermarkets, pharmacies.
How much does coconut oil cost? For an unrefined product you will pay 70 baht (110 Russian rubles) for a 200 g bottle. But its quality is questionable, and the smell is unlikely to please you. It is better to spend money on a purified product - it costs 120-300 baht (185 - 450 Russian rubles) per 100 ml.
Among pharmaceutical products, Parachute coconut oil is known, used for the face and body skin in windy, sunny or frosty weather - the price is approximately 400 rubles per 175 ml. And for hair, use Now Foods (Bestofindia) - price range from 280 to 450 rubles per 200 ml jar.
Types of Store-Bought Coconut Oil
In what form is coconut oil sold? Not by weight and after drinking. They are produced in refined, fractionated, hydrogenated form and Virginoil (this is a 100% natural product).
Refined The oil has been purified, clarified to transparency, and the characteristic odor has been removed. Used for skin and in cooking.
Fractionated oil is not a whole product, since during the distillation process only fatty acids with a low specific gravity remain. This way, vegetable fat penetrates the skin better. The product is used for massage, in skin creams, and hair masks. It has no color or odor and is suitable as a base in cosmetology.
Hydrogenated oil cannot be called a 100% natural product. It contains only 10% coconut. And used to make margarine or hard fat. In some countries, this product is used as a vehicle fuel due to its high melting point.
Virginoil– 100% natural oil. By using it you don’t have to worry about adverse reactions to fat. This is a cold-pressed product, in which not a single component disappears or evaporates. Lubricate your hands with it, treat wounds, but you shouldn’t use it in the kitchen.
About harm and contraindications
- Coconut oil contains a lot of calories, so you shouldn't overuse it or get carried away with it.
- You can develop an allergy to coconuts.
- Sometimes after eating the gastrointestinal tract becomes irritated and symptoms of indigestion appear.
- Due to the high level of fat, it is not recommended to use the product for chronic pancreatitis and cholecystitis.
Use the right types of coconut oil and you will be happy.
Coconut oil is a well-known vegetable oil that consists of 99% fat. The raw material for its production is fresh copra (pulp) of the nut of the same name. First, copra is crushed, then dried and then pressed. The production waste cake is used as livestock feed.
More recently, such a plant product was considered harmful due to the fact that the composition of coconut oil is rich in fatty acids. Many studies have shown that coconut oil brings great benefits to the human body when consumed.
Today it is quite common, the oil is widely used in cosmetology. It is worth understanding in detail the properties, production methods and use of such a product as coconut oil. The benefits and harms of coconut oil will be discussed in each area of its use.
There are two ways to produce oil, each of them has its own characteristics:
1. Cold pressed. Oil produced in this way is the most valuable, as it is obtained through gentle processing of raw materials. Cold pressing copra allows you to retain all the beneficial properties of the final product, but this method does not extract all the oil contained in the dried pulp.
This is why cold-pressed coconut oil is an expensive yet high-quality product.
2. Hot spin. Thanks to this method of processing raw materials, it is possible to obtain more oil than by cold pressing. But as a result of high temperatures and the use of various chemicals, the beneficial properties of this plant product are partially lost.
This explains the not too high cost of the final product; refined coconut oil is most often made from it. It lasts longer and does not have a pronounced color or smell.
Each of these oils finds its use in cosmetology, body and hair care, and in cooking. Let's try to figure out which oil should be used for this or that procedure, as well as for cooking.
Uses of cold pressed coconut oil
This type of oil is used not only in cooking, but also in cosmetology. This healing herbal product is recommended for regular use for those who adhere to a diet; this coconut oil can also be used for preparing children's dishes. It is added to almost all types of dishes: from salads to baked goods, desserts and vitamin drinks.
Unrefined oil is also used for weight loss purposes. It is taken immediately before meals, mixed with warm boiled water.
Refined oil also contains quite a lot of useful substances, but it is not used for food. It is usually used for cosmetic purposes. Thanks to its moisturizing properties, it perfectly nourishes hair and dry skin, protects against the negative effects of environmental factors.
Each of the oils can be used for hair care, so it is added to conditioners, balms and masks. With regular use of coconut oil, your hair will quickly take on a well-groomed appearance and shine with health.
This unique herbal product has many beneficial properties, namely:
- accelerates metabolism (metabolism);
- removes excess cholesterol from the body;
- normalizes blood pressure;
- has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal effects.
Coconut oil has a beneficial effect on curls and scalp - it is an excellent nourishing agent for them. It creates an invisible protective foam on the surface of the hair, which protects the strands from the negative effects of ultraviolet rays, as well as other negative environmental factors.
You can get detailed information about the benefits of coconut oil from the instructions for this herbal product. It states that coconut oil not only enriches the body with useful substances, but also promotes better absorption of other vitamins and macroelements, namely: Ka, Mg and some amino acids. Many people know that this product has antioxidant properties; it prevents the development of osteoporosis when consumed regularly.
What does coconut oil contain?
The chemical composition of this product is varied. It is rich in vitamins A, E, B, C, K, which explains its moisturizing and regenerating properties. This healing product contains a number of essential fatty acids: lauric, myristic, oleic, caprylic, capric.
The presence of natural antioxidants in this plant product allows coconut oil to be stored open. Its composition is unique; it is considered a valuable cosmetic product, as it contains a natural moisturizer, which is represented by lauric acid. Coconut oil, like all oils, is a high-calorie product; 100 grams contains approximately 899 Kcal. That is why it should be used in food in minimal doses.
You can eat coconut oil regularly, but in limited doses, then such a product will only bring benefits. It is worth highlighting a number of useful properties of this product:
- prevents the development of atherosclerosis and the formation of blood clots;
- has a positive effect on the condition of the entire cardiovascular system;
- heals the thyroid gland;
- promotes normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
- has a sedative effect;
- increases immunity;
- has a pronounced antioxidant effect;
- prevents the development of obesity and concomitant liver diseases;
- improves the general condition of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Of course, coconut oil is indispensable in nutrition. The benefits and harms of the product are described in many scientific research results.
The harm of coconut oil is the occurrence of allergies or food poisoning during its use. It is worth noting that the body may react this way if the body is oversaturated with coconut oil. Consultation with a specialist will allow you to clarify how much oil should be consumed without harm to health.
Coconut oil for food
In some Asian countries, coconut oil is used for cooking. It is great for dressing salads; it is added to dishes of meat, fish, rice and vegetables. During heat treatment, the oil retains its properties and does not oxidize. Therefore, you can safely fry vegetables and meat in such vegetable oil.
It is added to baked goods and desserts, thereby giving homemade delicacies a special taste and incomparable aroma.
Not many people know that this product does not contain cholesterol, which is why you don’t have to limit the use of coconut oil in your food. Benefits and harms hang in the balance; of course, the beneficial qualities of the product outweigh the possible negative effects on the body.
It is not recommended to consume this oil for those who are allergic to any food products. It is worth introducing a new product gradually, adding it to food in microdoses; this will help to quickly identify an allergic reaction in family members and, if necessary, completely eliminate coconut oil from the diet.
By using coconut oil correctly, taking into account its benefits and harm, you can maintain your health at the proper level, as well as look young and attractive.
According to modern science, coconut oil is one of the healthiest foods on the globe. The benefits are explained by the composition, which does not contain compounds that can cause harm.
91% of the oil consists of healthy saturated fatty acids. Of these, 62% are medium chain triglycerides (MCTs): caprylic, lauric and capric acids.
The absorption of these compounds occurs in only three stages. Whereas to utilize other fats, the body must perform several dozen steps.
Therefore, coconut fats are quickly and easily absorbed, provide a tremendous boost of energy and have many other healing qualities.
Help with weight loss
Coconut oil is not just a weight loss friendly product. It is one of the few products that actually help you lose weight. Moreover, it helps burn fat mainly in the abdominal area.
For example, men with large bellies have been shown to reduce their waist circumference by almost 3cm by adding 2 tablespoons of oil to their diet daily.
Do you think this is not enough? Not at all!
After all, the point is that it is “adding” this product to the diet that works. And not replacing other components of the daily menu with it. People add fat to their diet. And at the same time they lose weight in the abdominal area. No sports activities.
If you introduce coconut oil into your diet while switching to coconut oil, the result will be more impressive.
How does this coconut food manage to show such achievements?
The oil of this tropical fruit is fundamentally different from other edible fats, as it contains a significant amount of medium chain triglycerides. It is the presence of these compounds that explains such amazing activity.
Medium chain triglycerides are metabolized differently than other fats. And therefore the effect on the body is completely different.
MCTs go directly to the liver, where they are immediately used for energy or converted into ketone bodies. In the form of “fat in reserve” they practically do not exist.
Calories do not equal calories. That is why their strict calculation is useless for losing weight.
Foods that have the same calorie content are metabolized in the body in different ways. Therefore, they cause a different hormonal response, which ultimately has different effects on metabolic rate, fat deposition, etc.
Coconut oil is a thermogenic food. This means that once it enters the body, it causes it to expend more energy than other foods that have exactly the same calorie content.
However, this does not mean that reducing your calorie intake is not important for weight loss. It is also important if we are talking about obvious overeating.
Coconut oil reduces the likelihood of overeating, as it fills you up noticeably better than other fatty foods, and, therefore, makes it possible to eat less and not suffer from hunger.
So, the medium chain triglycerides in coconut oil are:
- reduce appetite and thereby help reduce the number of calories consumed per day;
- “warm up” the body, thereby accelerating the burning of stored fats in it;
- quickly burn out on their own or turn into ketone bodies, which have a lot of useful properties.
And that's not all. MCTs have several other functions that are essential for healthy weight loss.
Other useful properties
Prevention of heart disease. Saturated coconut oils increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), known as “good cholesterol.” And at the same time, they help convert low-density lipoproteins into forms of fat that are safe for the body.In addition, under the influence of this product the level of total cholesterol and triglycerides decreases.
This makes it possible to improve the 2 most important biochemical indicators of blood lipid composition: the ratio of high-density lipoproteins to total cholesterol and the ratio of triglycerides to HDL.
Prevention and treatment of brain diseases. Ketone bodies, which are formed from coconut oil, are an alternative source of energy for the human brain. They are especially useful for those people who suffer from various severe brain diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease or epilepsy.It has been proven that the inclusion of medium chain triglycerides, which are so rich in coconut oil, in the diet immediately improves the condition of patients with these lesions of brain tissue.
Protection against pathogenic agents. The main medium chain triglyceride in coconut oil is lauric acid, which is converted into monolaurin in the body. Both lauric acid and monolaurin have the ability to destroy pathogens. Caprylic and capric fatty acids, which are also part of the oil, have a similar effect.Thanks to the presence of these compounds, the product:
- helps prevent ARVI, influenza, colds, viral hepatitis, etc., reduces the frequency of relapses of herpes;
- when left in the mouth for a long time (rinsing), it eliminates bad breath, protects teeth and gums from bacterial damage (it is most effective against Streptococcus mutans and bacteria of the genus Lactobacillus representing the most dangerous, from the point of view of the likelihood of developing caries, oral bacteria);
- reduces the number of fungi of the genus Candida, present in the body and thereby helps to normalize the functioning of the intestinal microflora, which is often literally strangled by pathogenic fungi and bacteria.
The body begins to produce even more hormone. But even this has little effect. Insulin resistance develops and then diabetes. Coconut oil is an energy source that is independent of insulin. Therefore, it relieves tension from the pancreas, gives it the opportunity to return hormone production to normal levels, and allows cells to actively work without glucose. And gradually the ability to respond correctly to hormonal signals returns to them.
Normalization of hormonal profile. Saturated fatty acids are very important for hormone synthesis. Coconut oil not only normalizes hormonal status in terms of insulin production, but also helps adequate production of other hormones, such as estrogens. It works especially effectively for menopausal women.How to use?
Typically, coconut oil accounts for 20% of your total daily calories. That is, a person who allows himself 2000 kcal per day needs to eat 36-39 grams of the product (2.3-2.5 tablespoons).
Fixed doses. This approach is used more often. It does not involve counting calories. Whatever their average amount during the day, simply add 2 tablespoons of oil to the diet.
With any method of introducing the product into the diet, you should start with 1 teaspoon per day. Gradually increasing this amount to the selected dose.
How to properly introduce it into the diet?
- Use when frying instead of any other oil. Coconut fat is ideal for cooking with it, since 9% consists of saturated acids that do not oxidize during heat treatment.
- A substitute for butter or vegetable oil in absolutely any recipe from gravy to baking. Replacement is done in a ratio of 1 to 1.
- Adding to tea and coffee. This method may seem strange. But it's useful. Usually take 1 teaspoon of oil for one large cup of drink.
- Dietary supplements. Not the best way. Since one capsule of supplements usually contains only 1 gram of oil. That is, to achieve the daily concentration you need to swallow several dozen capsules.
Never buy refined oils. Only cold-pressed oil can be eaten.
You can also make the product yourself. True, this process is quite labor-intensive.
In this article you will find each method.
Possible harm
So far, no serious side effects have been reported from using the product.
Some people (rarely) are allergic to coconut. They may also have a reaction to the oil.
However, do not forget that oil is useful only in the amount that was indicated. If it is excessively included in the diet, diarrhea may occur, as well as an increase in body weight, since the amount of calories will be too excessive. And if you are not seriously involved in sports, you are unlikely to be able to burn them.
Coconut oil is a healthy food product that is used in other sectors of human life. Thus, coconut oil is used in cosmetology and folk medicine, but we will tell you about this later.
Coconut oil first became known in the 15th century in India. At first it was used as a hair care product, later it began to be used for skin care, and only then began to be added to food. Only in the 16th century was coconut oil exported outside of India, to China, and from there the product spread throughout the world.
Making coconut oil is a labor-intensive process. To make this flavorful supplement, only coconut copra is used. The process of pressing copra is called cold pressing, and the hot method of obtaining the product involves pressing fresh dried coconut pulp. Due to the fact that coconut oil is a completely natural product, it is highly valued in cosmetology and cooking.
The main supplier of coconut oil is Thailand, but many housewives have learned to make this product at home. This homemade product turns out to be more useful than the one you can buy in a store or pharmacy. You should also know that edible oil is slightly different from that used in cosmetology.
By itself, coconut oil has a cloudy white hue and a fairly viscous consistency, but when heated, it becomes clear and liquid.
Uses of coconut oil
Coconut oil is used both in cooking and in cosmetology. Let's look at both of these industries so you can determine the benefits of this product for yourself..
In cooking
As you know, coconut oil is used quite often in cooking. It has an unsurpassed aroma, thanks to which it is often used to prepare various cocktails or desserts. Here is a basic list of options for using aromatic coconut oil at home:
- Refined coconut oil can be used for frying or sautéing food as it can withstand high temperatures well.
- Unrefined oil can also be used for frying foods, but you should take into account the fact that they will have a characteristic odor. Therefore, it is recommended to fry pancakes, pancakes, cheesecakes and other sweet dishes on it.
- You can even add coconut oil to chicken or other meats before baking. The aroma of coconut in combination with spices will only improve the taste of the finished dish and also give it a zest.
- In vegetarian dishes, you can replace butter with coconut oil.
- Baked goods and desserts are the most common dishes that benefit from adding coconut oil. Particularly delicious creamy desserts and cake fillings with coconut flakes are obtained by adding a few drops of coconut oil.
- Wheat, oatmeal, and many other porridges can be eaten with coconut oil. You can also use it to dress salads if you are not afraid to experiment.
- You can add coconut oil to your tea or coffee to give it a special flavor.
- This product is often used in the preparation of alcoholic cocktails. The most popular of them, which may include coconut oil, is the Pina Colada drink.
There are a large number of other dishes and desserts that you can add coconut oil to. You can experiment on your own, preparing the dish to your liking. Just try not to add too much flavor as this can ruin the taste of the finished food.
If you believe the reviews, taking coconut oil internally helps improve the digestion process and also removes harmful substances and toxins from the body. In this case, you can use both liquid oil and a thickened product. But it should be remembered that the calorie content of coconut oil is very high: about 900 kilocalories per hundred grams of product. People who watch their figure are not recommended to use it uncontrollably.
In cosmetology
The use of coconut oil in cosmetology extends to hair and skin. The product is known to have incredible emollient properties, so if you have rough or dry skin, it is recommended to use a coconut oil-based cream or rub the pure product into problem areas. The product can help get rid of the following problems:
- wrinkles;
- stretch marks;
- dry skin;
- cellulite;
- peeling of lips.
Very often, housewives use coconut oil for the skin around the eyes, strengthening nails, and toning the skin of the face and body. This product is also often used in the summer as a tanning product, since the microelements and vitamins contained in the oil protect the skin from the penetration of harmful ultraviolet radiation.
Hair masks with the addition of coconut oil are a separate topic. There are a huge number of recipes for preparing such products. Moreover, this product is also used to care for eyelashes and eyebrows. It is very useful to make nourishing masks with coconut oil at night, especially if your hair is quite dry.
I also use this aromatic product as a massage oil, and also for body wraps and wellness treatments. The benefits of coconut oil are not only in its perfume properties, but also in its composition, which contains a large amount of natural fatty acids.
Coconut oil is used for weight loss, and it is both used internally and used for wraps. It will not harm even pregnant women if the doctor allows it and there is no individual intolerance.
Benefits and harms
Absolutely any product can bring benefits and harm, and coconut oil is no exception. Let's first look at the negative properties of the product, so that we can then move on to more positive information.
Coconut oil can be harmful to patients who suffer from chronic pancreatitis and cholecystitis, as well as people with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Also, if you have allergies, the use of this product is prohibited. Give it to young children under five years of age with caution.
As for the benefits, coconut oil can only bring it if used regularly, but not abused!
- Thanks to the fatty acids that make up the oil, the product has a positive effect on the brain and also prevents the development of diseases such as Alzheimer's disease or disorders of the central nervous system.
- Those who have heart or blood vessel problems are also advised to include coconut oil in their diet. It helps normalize heart function, strengthens the walls of blood vessels and normalizes blood pressure.
- When fighting obesity, coconut oil will help you quickly get rid of extra pounds, as well as normalize your metabolism. The product also significantly reduces appetite.
- Regular consumption of coconut oil can prevent the development of various infectious diseases.
- For people with increased or decreased blood clotting, many doctors recommend including coconut oil in their diet. In addition, this product contains many antioxidants, which prevents the development of cancer cells.
- Coconut oil can moisturize skin and hair, strengthen nails, and act as a sunscreen by preventing UV rays from penetrating deep into the skin.
Please note that the product can only be beneficial if you do not neglect contraindications and consult your doctors in a timely manner.
How to make coconut oil with your own hands?
You can make coconut oil with your own hands at home. For this you will need: coconut, awl, gauze, water, grater or blender. The cooking process is quite simple.
In general, preparing coconut oil takes about 24 hours, and looks like this: peel fresh coconut, cut into large pieces and put them in a blender, adding a little drinking water. Pour the resulting mixture into a deep container and pour boiling water over it. Using a fork, mash the mixture, cover with a lid and leave to infuse for half an hour. After the required amount of time, take a sieve and cover it with several layers of gauze, then place the strainer over a deep container. Pour the coconut gruel into it and thoroughly squeeze the liquid into the prepared pan.
If you want a more concentrated coconut oil, it is recommended to do these steps twice. One coconut won't yield much oil, so it's better to use several nuts.
Having prepared homemade coconut oil with your own hands, you can use it for its intended purpose, not forgetting about our recommendations and contraindications.
