Rating of coconut oils for food. How to tell good coconut oil from bad or everything I know about coconut oil
Let me start by saying that I learned about the properties of coconut oil a long time ago, but I only decided to buy and try it about three months ago. The fact is that most articles telling about the rules for choosing natural coconut oil are full of frightening facts:
- unrefined coconut oil, which is beneficial for hair and skin, is expensive
- coconut oil is often counterfeited
- unrefined oil is rarely sold in a regular supermarket
- more often, stores offer refined coconut oil, which means it is practically useless for hair and skin
I had no time to scour websites and pharmacies in search of the right coconut oil, and for some time I abandoned thoughts of purchasing it, indifferently passing by the shelves with coconut oil in the grocery section of the supermarket.
Imagine my surprise when one day, while waiting for my turn at the checkout, I, out of boredom, took a jar of coconut oil and began to study the inscriptions on the label. It turned out that 240 grams of pure product, costing a little more than 6 thousand won (about $5), is Extra Virgin or unrefined cold-pressed oil! That same ideal unrefined oil was sold under my nose for years, and after reading introductory articles, I did not pay attention to it, believing that it was at least refined, and therefore completely useless for hair and skin!
By the way, this discovery came to me very opportunely. I was just busy looking for a good softener for the skin of my feet, and was also looking for a natural oil to use as a face cream from time to time.
In general, using oil instead of cream is a forced and undesirable measure. Oil, no matter how natural and high-quality it is, is a fatty substance, and for facial skin care it is necessary to use water-oil-based products. Using oil instead of face cream can disrupt the water-oil balance of the skin, leading to clogged pores and the formation of comedones. Usually it is recommended to add a few drops of coconut oil to face cream, and if used in its pure form, then no more than 1-2 times a week.
I sometimes apply coconut oil to my face during exacerbations of allergies, when I don’t even want to think about the usual creams and serums, but I am careful not to use oil instead of cream on an ongoing basis, as some authors of articles about coconut oil recommend.
Coconut oil contains:
- lauric acid- antiseptic properties. Accelerates the healing of microcracks, prevents the appearance of wrinkles and age-related pigmentation.
- oleic acid- retains moisture in the skin, restores the barrier functions of the epidermis.
- caprylic acid- normalizes metabolic processes in tissues.
- stearic acid- restores the protective functions of the skin
- vitamins- B1, B3, B6, B9, C, PP.
Which oil should you choose?
After studying many articles about coconut oil, I came to the conclusion that the best product for cosmetic purposes is unrefined, cold-pressed oil or Extra Virgin Oil.
When cold pressed, high temperatures and chemical reagents are not used, which means this oil retains useful components, vitamins and the delicious smell of coconut. At temperatures below 25C, unrefined coconut oil hardens and turns white.
Obviously, there are practically no beneficial substances left in refined coconut oil and the smell is barely perceptible.
Coconut oil for hair
It is believed that coconut oil nourishes and moisturizes hair, gives it shine, makes it easier to comb and style, normalizes the water-fat balance of the scalp, causing dandruff to disappear and hair loss to decrease.
The oil must be applied to the entire length of the hair 2-3 hours before washing your hair.
If your scalp is oily, you should avoid getting oil on your hair roots and skin. Many people advise doing an oil coconut mask at night, but I don’t like such long procedures.
The oil can be melted in a steam bath and applied to the hair with a comb or brush. I transfer 3-4 teaspoons of oil into a bowl for masks, then, warming the pieces in my palms, apply the melted oil along the entire length and onto the scalp, cover my hair with a plastic cap and leave for 2 hours, after which I wash my hair as usual.
What I liked:
- no cumulative effect
- I have fluffy hair, so even when dyed dark it doesn’t have much shine at the ends. After using coconut oil, a healthy shine appeared throughout the entire length of the hair.
- hair holds styling well
- even after washing with shampoo, hair retains a light coconut aroma
- I’m not sure if it’s because of the oil (at the same time I started using the oil, I changed my hair dye), but it seems to me that my hair began to fall out less
I manage to make a mask with coconut oil once a week. After washing off the oil with shampoo, I wash my hair again and apply conditioner for literally 30 seconds.
A week before dyeing gray hair, I don’t use oil.
Coconut oil for skin
It is recommended to apply to the skin of the body after a shower to soften, add elasticity and reduce stretch marks, to the skin of the feet and elbows to eliminate rough areas, around the eyes and facial skin to smooth out wrinkles, as well as nails and the skin around the nails.
I use it on my face less than once a month so as not to disturb the water-fat balance of the skin, but I use it constantly on my body, hands and feet.
What I liked:
- absorbs perfectly with almost no residue
- immediately after the shower, I apply the oil to damp skin of the body and do a light massage. The skin becomes velvety, moisturized and very soft
- the skin of the feet becomes less rough, corns can be easily cleaned off with a brush even without steaming
- excellent prevention of cracks in the skin around the nails, shiny and strong nails
- nice smell
- economical consumption
- significant savings on hand and foot creams
In order not to give off the smell of coconut cake, I use the oil at night; usually the aroma disappears by morning.
If we compare coconut oil with cosmetic products that contain coconut oil, of course I like the natural product better.
However, I do not consider oil a panacea and try to dose its use, especially on the skin of the face.
Have a good day!
This article is very long, even longer than you thought, but worth your time. Why?
The author of this article, Brian Shilhavy, lived with his family in the Philippines for several years. And next to the habitat was the production of coconut oil. He is the author of the best-selling book Virgin Coconut Oil: How It Changed People's Lives and How It Can Change Yours!
When my wife and I shipped the very first “virgin coconut oil” from the Philippines to the US in 2001, there were only two other similar products labeled as food grade available in the US market. Coconut oil was not popular 13 years ago, which is why there was little choice. If you used it as a dietary supplement back in the day, you most likely received information about fats and oils from Dr. Mary Enig. Dr. Enig was advocating for saturated fats and denouncing trans fats long before anyone else started booing the misinformation coming from the US edible oils industry. Many of her claims have been featured in Weston Price Foundation publications over the years, and we have also published her research on CoconutOil.com.
Today, at the beginning of 2015, when it comes to purchasing coconut oil, there are already plenty to choose from. And here's what I'm going to do: I'll give you an insider's look at the current market, without mentioning any specific brands. This wonderful product is not made in the same way, so you need to choose it based on how you plan to use it.
But first, in order to decide which coconut oil is best for you, you should find out what kind it is, and how one differs from the other.
So let's get started!
Refined coconut oil versus virgin coconut oil
There are two main categories of coconut oil: those that are mass produced industrially and simply need to be refined, and those that start from fresh coconuts and are lightly refined. Yes, you read correctly - it is also refined.
Coconut oil is an inherently refined product because it doesn't grow on trees—coconuts do. Thus, it must be extracted from whole coconuts, so technically speaking, the only true "unrefined" coconut oil is the one still inside the flesh of the freshly picked nuts.
The term used to refer to the least refined type is “virgin coconut oil.” In the early 2000s, exactly this terminology began to be used to designate the least refined product, since it was also used in relation to other edible oils.
The definition of "virgin" was originally developed in an online discussion group we hosted, and a variety of people contributed to the definition, including industry insiders, academic leaders, and others. The definition we all agreed on back then was that only those coconut oils would be classified as virgin that were not produced from dried copra.
"Copra" is an industry term used in the Philippines to refer to the dried and shelled coconut, which itself is inedible and therefore must be further processed to produce coconut oil. Copra can be produced by several methods, including smoke drying, sun drying, or oven drying, and various derivatives of any of these methods or combinations thereof. The only thing they have in common is that the product at this point is not fit for human consumption and must therefore be further processed. It smells like smoke, it's dirty - in general, while the product is in the form of copra, it doesn't look like food at all. Copra is also a commodity, with its own market price, with its own niche, separate from coconuts, or coconut oil (finished product). In coconut producing countries, there are traders and dealers who specialize in copra and sell it to coconut oil producers. Copra is also exported to various countries, including the United States, where it is then processed for industrial purposes.
Let's take a look at the types of refined coconut oil that are available on the market today.
Refined coconut oils
In coconut producing countries, refined copra-based coconut oils are typically referred to as RBD, which stands for refined, bleached, deodorized. "Bleaching" is generally not a chemical process, but rather a filtration process to remove impurities. For this filtration, a special “bleaching clay” is used. If the oil was originally obtained from copra, it is deodorized using steam. Thus, the resulting product has very little taste and minimal or no odor.
One of the common misconceptions on the Internet is that only virgin coconut oil is a healthy product, while refined coconut oil is not, and that it can generally cause harm to health. In fact, this is not true, with a few exceptions that I will discuss later. RBD grade coconut oils have been on the market for many years. They are essential edible oils for billions of people living in tropical climates around the world. The RBD purification process does nothing to change the fatty acid profile of the product, so all medium chain fatty acids remain intact.
What the refining process does do is remove some of the nutrients. Virgin coconut oils show higher levels of antioxidants in tests, for example. But this fact does not make its RBD analogues “useless”.
Here are the types of refined coconut oil you can find on the market today:
Expeller-pressed Coconut Oils
This is typically RBD grade coconut oil produced in tropical countries through mechanical "physical refining" from copra. Physical processing is considered “cleaner” than chemical processing, which uses extraction solvents such as hexane.
In practice, the “expeller pressed” production method is often indicated on the packaging of virgin products. An expeller, as I understand it, is something like a screw in juicers, that is, the extraction is done using a screw method. And they can squeeze both copra and fresh coconuts. — approx. "Useful Shopping".
Coconut Oil
If there is no specification and the term “coconut oil” is simply used, then it most likely falls into the RBD category. It should be noted that copra is a product that is exported to the United States, where companies process it for non-food purposes - most often to produce cleaning products and detergents, for example. Now, with the new rise in popularity of coconut oil in nutrition, some of these large American manufacturing companies are beginning to package their product as food grade. It's safe to say that these cheaper oils are produced using extraction solvents. We don't know if any of these solvents remain in the finished product, but if you want to be sure they aren't, it's best to buy coconut oil that has been refined without them.
Hydrogenated Coconut Oil
This is one product that you should stay away from. A small portion of unsaturated fatty acids are hydrogenated, resulting in trans fats. This also allows the coconut oil to remain solid at higher temperatures. We have not yet encountered such a product on the US edible oil market. If it exists today, it is probably used as an ingredient in the confectionery industry in tropical countries. Standard RBD coconut oil stays solid up to 24-25 degrees Celsius, but in the tropics the ambient temperature is higher most of the time. Therefore, to keep it solid at higher temperatures, it is hydrogenated before being added to candy or baked goods, or made into margarine.
Liquid Coconut Oil (liquid)
A new product that hit grocery stores in 2013 was “liquid coconut oil,” which is marketed as “the kind that stays liquid even in the refrigerator.” And while it looks like a new addition to the edible oil aisle, this product is anything but new. It is a "fractionated oil" from which the lauric acid has been removed. It is also called "MCT oil". In the past, it was commonly used in skin care products and has recently gained popularity as a dietary supplement. It is a refined product that is currently promoted as an edible oil. It is actually a by-product of the production of lauric acid. Lauric acid is known as a strong antimicrobial substance, and therefore it is actively used as a preservative in many types of production. Being a saturated fatty acid and making up approximately 50% of coconut oil, once it is removed you are left with a liquid oil with a much lower melting point. So if you come across this product online or in a store, just know that it's highly refined and lacks the star component of coconut oil: lauric acid.
Virgin coconut oils
As I mentioned above, the common denominator by which the virgin class is determined is that the oil was obtained from fresh coconuts, and not from copra. However, there is no certifying organization anywhere in the world that defines or certifies coconut oils as “virgin” or “non-virgin”, so anyone can use this term and put it on their label if they wish. The first thing you need to pay attention to when choosing virgin coconut oil is whether it was pressed from copra or not. If it is based on copra, then this means that this is not a virgin class product, but a regular RBD-refined version with a smart label.
Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
You can often come across the name or term “extra virgin coconut oil.” What is the difference between “virgin” and “extra virgin”?
Not with anything. There is no generally accepted definition for the “extra” virgin class, as there is for olive. It's just a marketing term and nothing more.
So when looking at the virgin coconut oils currently on the market (some labeled as “extra virgin”), we can see two main production methods:
1. Derived from dried coconuts. With this method, fresh coconut pulp is first dried, and only then the oil is squeezed out of it. This method allows for easier mass production of this product. Since the drying industry has become well established in coconut producing countries, many companies in the industry have added coconut oil to their product lines.
This is the most common type of coconut oil labeled "virgin" and "extra virgin" that you will find online and in stores today. It is mass produced but is of higher quality than the RBD grade as it starts with fresh coconuts rather than copra.
2. Obtained using the “wet-milling” process. With this method, oil is extracted from the flesh of fresh coconuts without first drying it. First, “coconut milk” is obtained by squeezing it from fresh, wet pulp. The oil is then separated from the water. Methods that can be used include boiling, fermentation, refrigeration, enzymes, and mechanical centrifugation.
Luckily, coconut oil producing countries have done some research in the last few years. They began to realize that Western advice regarding dietary fats, which led to the demonization of their traditional fats and oils such as coconut, was primarily political rather than scientific.
In recent years, much of their research has been in the area of cholesterol and cardiovascular disease, an area that has been a major target of attack from Western countries. They realized that their traditional fats and oils were actually healthier than newcomers soybeans and corn, two grains heavily subsidized by the US government, which kept prices artificially low. We showcase much of this research on our website page CoconutOil.com. This study confirmed that coconut oil not only does NOT increase blood cholesterol levels, but that it lowers it.
Researchers from universities in the Philippines, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and India have studied different methods of extracting coconut oil. At first, it was difficult to understand what could be measured in a laboratory to determine whether a virgin product was truly superior to its conventional RBD refined counterparts. They soon discovered that there was one thing that could be measured in which one oil was significantly superior to another: antioxidant levels. The amount of antioxidants was much higher in virgin coconut oil, especially in the “wet milled” method described above.
Research on Wet Milled Virgin Coconut Oil
As mentioned above, in the process of producing coconut oil by "wet milling", it is extracted from a wet emulsion, or "milk", rather than pressed from dried coconuts.
So which type of “wet grinding” creates the highest quality virgin product? According to some studies, it is a “wet grind” fermentation process that uses heat. This is the simple method of extracting coconut oil that people living in the tropics have used in their kitchens for hundreds of years.
The fermentation process first produces coconut milk from freshly grated coconuts. Then it is left to ferment for some time, usually for one night. The heavier water gradually sinks to the bottom of the container, leaving a crystal clear layer of oil with coconut particles on the surface. After this, it is collected and placed in a pan, similar to a large wok, and heated for some time until the coconut particles sink to the bottom of the pan. Then it is filtered.
The first study examining virgin coconut oil production methods was conducted in 2008 in Malaysia and published in the International Journal of Food Science Nutrition. This was the first study to report that the enzymatic wet-milling method produced the highest amount of antioxidants.
A 2011 study in Sri Lanka by Professor Kapila Seneviratne of the University of Kelaniya also found that traditionally produced “wet-milled” coconut oil had the highest levels of antioxidants.
What was surprising about this study was that it was actually the heat that increased the amount of antioxidants. Then (and even now - approx. “Healthy Purchases”) it was widely believed that supposedly high temperatures had a negative effect on coconut oil, and therefore many manufacturers indicated on the packaging that it was “raw” and “cold-pressed.” pressed)" and was not subjected to any heating (no heating). Here's what they wrote in The Sunday Times of Sri Lanka:
“Even more surprises awaited the research team. There is a generally accepted belief that the quality of oil deteriorates when cooking at high temperatures. But, as it became known, this does not apply to coconut, since it is thermally stable. “Fortunately, most of the phenolic antioxidants present in coconut oil are also thermally highly stable,” he noted, explaining that the reason there are more antioxidants is that due to the prolonged high-temperature boiling, more of them dissolve in the oil.” (Published in The Sunday Times of Sri Lanka on October 16, 2011 - “Coconut Oil: Even After All, It's Still Good for You” by Kumudini Hettiarachchi and Shaveen Jeewandara).
In 2013, another study conducted in India also found that coconut oil produced by “wet grinding” and using heat contained higher levels of antioxidants. The study compared cold extracted virgin coconut oil (CEVCO) with hot extracted virgin coconut oil (HEVCO) and standard refined coconut oil (CCO) and was published in the journal Food Science and Biotechnology . Testing showed that "antioxidant activity in the HEVCO group was 80-87%, 65-70% in CEVCO, and 35-45% in CCO." The researchers went further and commented on why heating is necessary to produce the highest amount of antioxidants in virgin coconut oil:
“The increased levels of polyphenols in the HEVCO group may be due to the increased release of bound polyphenols that occurs with heating. Coconut milk is an emulsion of water and oil that is stabilized by protein. To extract oil from coconut milk, the protein bond must be broken by heating in a double-walled kettle known as a VCO cooker (a steam vessel developed at the Central Plantation Crops Research Institute), heating slowly so that the protein coagulates and releases the oil.”
This study clearly shows us that "wet-milled" coconut oils sold as "unheated" or "raw" or "cold-pressed" actually have lower levels of antioxidants.
Conclusions
So, we have looked at the different types of coconut oil available in the market today. There's one last point left: what about organic?
Obviously, any third party inspected organic claim is a bonus. But is this necessary?
Apparently not.
There are no GMO varieties of coconuts, and there are very few pesticides used on coconut trees, although some are available. Coconuts grow very high, so they are never sprayed with anything. Pesticides can only be added to the soil around the tree so that they are absorbed by the roots, or introduced directly into the sap of the tree through the trunk.
Organic certification is an expensive process, and if you only choose certified organic coconut oils, you may be missing out on some of the best products that don't have this certification. For example, keeping in mind that the traditional fermentation method described above showed the highest levels of antioxidants, if you were in the tropics, what would you prefer: certified organic virgin coconut oil, pressed from desiccated coconuts and available for purchase from the store, or one you can make in your own kitchen from fresh coconuts that are not certified organic? Based on the research, the oil you make yourself in the kitchen from fresh coconuts will be the best!
When considering the coconut oil available today, your choice will largely be determined by how you plan to use it and your budget. If you want the highest quality virgin product, use the table below, which ranks the different types on a scale of 1 to 10.
Don't expect all these details to be printed on the labels. Additionally, it is unlikely that people working in retail grocery stores will know the answers to specific questions about production methods.
So first, do your own research online, and also ask sellers for the information you need to make an informed purchasing decision. They should be able to contact their suppliers and find answers for you.
It’s better to ask all your questions directly to the manufacturer (note: “Useful Purchases”).
about the author
Unlike many people who write about coconut oil by simply reading about it, Brian Shilhavy lived with his family in the area where it is produced in the Philippines for several years. Marianita Jader Shilhawi grew up on a coconut plantation in the Philippines, and simply in a culture that has a significant amount of coconut fat in its diet. She later received a degree in nutrition and worked as a nutritionist in the Philippines. Living in the Philippines with their three children, Brian Shilhavy and his wife Marianita have seen first-hand the differences between the nutrition and health of the younger generation and those from Marianita's parents' generation who still eat traditionally. This led to several years of living among a rural farming community, during which Brian learned about Filipino nutrition. Brian is the author of the bestselling book Virgin Coconut Oil: How It Changed People's Lives and How It Can Change Yours! (“Virgin Coconut Oil: How it has changed people’s lives and how it can change yours!”).
For skin and hair care. The perfect product. And yet... just like not all yogurt is created equal, not all coconut oil has the same characteristics. Let's understand the types of coconut oil before the cunning manufacturers start fooling us.
To begin with, a small educational program - oils are obtained in several ways:
Expeller-pressed
Means that the oil was obtained by directly pressing pits, seeds, fruits, legumes or grains. It is possible that the oil was extracted using high pressure, but in any case, no solvents were used in the process.
Cold-pressed
The oil was obtained using the previously described method, but everything happened at a temperature below 50 degrees.
Heat extraction
This means that the raw material was heated when producing the oil. This method increases the yield of the useful component.
Chemical extraction
Involves the use of chemicals and solvents in the process of obtaining oil. For example, hexane, which simplifies the process of extracting oil from raw materials.
Unrefined, cold pressed coconut oil
An ideal product containing all the benefits of coconut oil. It is obtained from the pulp of coconuts pressed at low temperatures (up to 48 degrees Celsius). This is the oil that is recommended for food and cosmetic purposes. It is ideal for use raw. It can also be used for frying and baking (the smoke point, that is, the temperature above which the oil begins to form carcinogens, is 177 degrees Celsius).
If such an oil bears the international “organic” mark (not a fake one, as on the Russian plagiarism of the Nutiva brand, but a real one, provided with a certificate), then this is the best option for coconut oil, which can only be better than a bounty of heavenly pleasure. This oil always has a delicately sweet coconut aroma, which means that dishes cooked with it will also smell a little like coconut. LookBio talked about organic coconut oils available in Russia.
Expeller Pressed Coconut Oil
Like virgin coconut oil, this oil is obtained from the meat of coconuts. However, the technology used is different - screw press machines. With this pressing, the raw material is heated to 90-100 degrees Celsius, which ensures a greater yield of oil. Therefore, oil obtained by pressing is cheaper than cold-pressed oil. Also, this oil contains slightly less beneficial micronutrients, but it is slightly more resistant to heat (smoke point - 182 degrees). Extruded coconut oil has a more neutral taste. It has less of the sweet coconut aroma, but adds a slight nutty flavor. This oil is still a healthy product. It is ideal for cooking: for frying and using in the oven.
Expeller Pressed Refined Coconut Oil
The same as the previous option, only the oil is refined. Still a healthy product, ideal for baking and frying as it has almost no taste. However, you need to be careful with this option. To be sure that the oil was obtained through pressing, it is safer to choose an organic option (there are many such oils on iHerb).
Refined coconut oil of unknown origin
Inexpensive refined coconut oil has already appeared in Russia and, as a rule, in this case the method of oil production is not indicated on the packaging. On the product under the Delicato brand (RUB 150 for 450 g), which we found in HyperGlobus, it is stated in small print that the oil is “refined, bleached, deodorized.” The last two words mean that this oil was obtained by extraction using hexane (or gasoline - this is also possible). Next, the oil is bleached using special clays and distilled for deodorization, which should remove all unpleasant odors.
Typically, cheap refined coconut oil is obtained not from the meat of the coconut, but from what is left after cold-pressing the coconut. Or from coconut shells, which are usually dried outside, in the sun, and then driven in for extraction. Yes, the shells also provide oil, but in this case we are talking about a completely different product, which in its composition is far from unrefined virgin coconut oil. It is also important that the extraction process takes place at very high temperatures (about 200 degrees), which depletes the original micronutrient composition of the raw material. This oil really can withstand high temperatures, therefore it is recommended by the manufacturer for frying, however, healthy nutrition specialists (in particular, a nutritionist, a specialist in holistic medicine and our
Coconut oil is a universal skin care product for the face, body and hair. It can also be taken internally.
It is very nutritious, hypoallergenic - suitable for both adults and children.
About why it is useful, how it can be used, where to buy coconut oil in Thailand and which one is better to choose.
I often use natural oils, but I only fell in love with coconut oil in Thailand. Still, Thai is different. Definitely for the better.
So, what are the benefits of coconut oil (in cosmetology):
- moisturizes and nourishes the skin well,
- helps with dryness and irritation,
- restores the skin - very useful to use,
- useful for mature skin - adds elasticity and reduces wrinkles,
- strengthens and nourishes hair, gives it shine.
Methods of application
For skin
- Moisturize your skin after showering.
- For the face - as a very nourishing night cream. Or add a few drops to your cream.
- As a makeup remover, it works well with waterproof cosmetics.
- Use as massage oil.
- For very dry areas of the skin, for example, elbows and heels.
- In the cold season - to protect the skin from chapping.
- As a hand and nail cream.
- To relieve irritation (for example, after depilation).
- Universal for baby skin care.
For hair
- As a strengthening hair mask, apply heated oil to the roots and distribute over the entire length. It's ideal to add a few drops of essential oil - but only if you are sure of its quality. I like to add bay oil, rosemary and lavender - separately or mixed, depending on the mood. Wrap your hair and leave the mask on for at least half an hour (you can leave it overnight). Then you need to rinse with shampoo - you will have to rinse your hair 2-3 times (depending on your hair and shampoo). Quite long and tedious, but this is one of the best ways to care for your hair. Gorgeously strengthens and adds shine. The downside is that the pigment will wash off faster from colored hair.
- As a treatment for ends, rub a small amount of oil in your palms (just a little) and apply to the ends of your hair. This will protect against cutting.
- Many Thai women apply coconut oil to their hair before swimming in the sea to protect it from the sun, salt and wind.
- An option for the lazy is to buy ready-made masks based on coconut oil. But the effect will be weaker.
Types of Coconut Oil
Cold and hot pressed coconut oil
There are two ways to extract coconut oil: cold pressed and hot pressed.
Cold pressing involves grinding the coconut meat and then squeezing the oils out of it.
In hot pressing, the coconut meat is dried in an oven or in the sun, after which the oil is squeezed out of it. Hot-pressed coconut oil is cheaper, but many beneficial substances are destroyed during heat treatment.
- Virgin/Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is cold pressed coconut oil.
- If the label simply says Coconut Oil, then it is either hot-pressed coconut oil or a mixture of refined and unrefined oil.
Unrefined and Refined Coconut Oil
During refining, oil is heated, water and special additives are added to separate phospholipids, minerals, metals and other substances from the oil. Refined oil is stored longer, is less capricious during transportation, has almost no odor and no color.
But as you understand, it is less useful than unrefined.
Refined coconut oil can only be used externally; unrefined coconut oil can even be eaten.
- If the oil package says Virgin/Extra Virgin, it is 100% unrefined oil.
- If Refined / RBD is indicated, this is refined oil.
- If it’s just Coconut Oil, then it’s either refined oil or a mixture of refined and unrefined oil.
How to choose the right coconut oil
- The best oil is the one you can eat. It is definitely well purified and does not contain unnecessary additives.
- Look for the label Virgin or Extra Virgin on the packaging.
- Do not buy oil in strange places (beaches, etc.) and without labels if you are not sure of the manufacturer.
- Always check the ingredients on the label. Even in pharmacies you can come across oil with additives, and in many cosmetic stores (like Naka on Samui) you can even find mineral oil in the composition!
- Coconut oil melts at +25 degrees Celsius, so if the room temperature is lower, it thickens and even hardens. If this does not happen, the oil is bad. What to do if the oil is frozen? It's simple, melt it in a water bath. Or directly on the skin. This will not affect the properties in any way, nor the shelf life.
- The smell should be weak, not sharp, slightly sweet.
- Dark coconut oil is a poorly refined oil. A good one has a clear to light yellow color.
Where to buy coconut oil
- In Southeast Asia, including Thailand, it can be found almost everywhere. However, the quality of the product can vary greatly - I advise you to buy coconut oil in specialized cosmetic stores or in grocery stores (cooking oil, but only labeled Extra Virgin).
- Outside - can be found in oriental goods stores or in supermarkets, in organic food departments.
- Through online stores. For example, I recommend Tropicana oil -
The use of coconut oil in the modern world is quite extensive, because it is used in most areas of human life. We will tell you in this article which oil manufacturer to choose and how to use it.
Cosmetology
For cosmetic and hygiene procedures, coconut oil can be used:
- To moisturize hair;
- For gentle care of cuticles;
- For styling;
- For the care of skin that has lost its brightness and elasticity, inflamed, sensitive or damaged;
- As an antibacterial mask;
- To soften lips chapped in the cold;
- For thorough care of all parts of the body;
- To remove cosmetics;
- Instead of an aftershave moisturizer;
- Like lip gloss;
- To prevent the appearance of wrinkles;
- For the care of hair and its roots;
- If you have acne;
- To eliminate sunburn;
- To relieve eczema;
- To perform spa treatments at home;
- To soften the skin on the legs;
- To remove wax during hair removal;
- For eyelash care.
Use in everyday life
To create a cozy atmosphere at home, as well as improve living conditions, you can also use this oil. It is used:
- To add shine to interior items with leather trim;
- For removing chewing gum from surfaces;
- For cleaning the bathroom;
- For cleaning metal products;
- For lubricating hinges;
- To repel insects;
- For the care of wood products and furniture;
- To care for guitar strings;
- To create aromatic oils;
- To open stuck car doors and much more.
In addition, coconut oil will become an indispensable assistant for caring for pets. It will allow:
- Prevent the appearance of hairballs and make caring for the animal easier;
- For preventive purposes against arthritis;
- Gain the animal the required weight and receive a balanced diet;
- Relieve itching.
Cooking
Coconut oil plays a very important role in preparing tasty and healthy food. You can add it to tea or coffee instead of sugar, make nut butter from it, and also use it to prepare fried foods. This herbal product is perfect for making toast, popcorn or homemade baked goods. You can diversify your salad menu by replacing olive oil with coconut oil. This unique ingredient is often used to add to smoothies.
Medicinal purposes
Coconut oil is also widely used for medicinal purposes, as it is used:
- To maintain oral hygiene;
- For preventive purposes to relieve irritation;
- For the treatment of cough;
- For general relaxation;
- To relieve stress;
- To combat lice;
- For the treatment of herpes;
- For the care of minor wounds or burns;
- For the treatment of yeast infections;
- To normalize cholesterol levels;
- For the treatment of bites;
- To normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
- To relieve nasal congestion and reduce redness of the throat;
- To soften and moisturize the skin of breastfeeding women;
- To improve the absorption of calcium, which brings significant benefits to joints and bones;
- For ear hygiene;
- To eliminate crusts on the scalp of newborns;
- For the treatment of diaper rash;
- To relieve irritation and itching from insect bites;
- To get rid of excess weight;
- To speed up metabolism and much more.
Therefore, this oil is very popular in various areas of human life. It can be used by adults and children, as well as pregnant women. It is completely safe for allergy sufferers, and vegetarians often replace animal oils with it.
Contraindications
This product has virtually no contraindications. The only restriction for taking coconut oil will be intolerance to the product. Additionally, it should be taken in moderation. Abuse of this herbal product can lead to digestive system upset. There are no contraindications for external use.
Composition of coconut oil
The main components of coconut oil are polyunsaturated fatty acids, which, according to many world-famous experts, are vital for the health and functioning of the human body. The body cannot synthesize such acids on its own, so it strives to obtain them from the outside. Coconut oil contains the following fatty acids:
- Linolenic;
- Myristic;
- Caprylic;
- Lauric;
- Capric;
- Oleic;
- Stearic;
- Palmitoin;
- Arachidonic.
Moreover, it contains significant content:
- Vitamins K, E, C;
- Calcium;
- Choline;
- Phytosterols;
- Magnesium;
- Gland;
- Phosphorus;
- Potassium;
- Zinc.
Many domestic and foreign manufacturers produce coconut oil, but the percentage of natural ingredients and calorie content can vary significantly. The huge range of products offered can baffle even an experienced person, so it’s worth taking a closer look at some coconut oil manufacturers.
The best coconut oil producers
This American company offers organic, cold-pressed coconut oil. Its cost is from 713 rubles per 454 grams.
Nature's Way Coconut Oil
Advantages:
- The product does not contain GMOs;
- Perfectly enhances the taste of dishes;
- Gluten free;
- No artificial ingredients or preservatives;
- High taste indicators;
- Has the aroma and taste of coconut.
Flaws:
- Individual intolerance to the product;
- Plastic containers (many customers prefer glass).
The drug contains:
| № | Name | Amount per serving, g | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fats | 14 | 18 |
| 2 | Saturated fats | 13 | 65 |
| 3 | Polyunsaturated fats | 0 | 0 |
| 4 | Cholesterol | 0 | 0 |
| 5 | Fatty acid | 8.6 | |
| 6 | Lauric acid | 6.6 | |
| 7 | Caprylic acid | 1 | |
| 8 | capric acid | 900 mg |
This environmentally friendly cold-pressed coconut oil from a foreign manufacturer is very popular among our compatriots. Its cost is from 493 rubles for 414 mg.
Advantages:
- Environmental friendliness:
- Gluten free;
- Glass containers;
- High taste indicators;
- Perfect for vegetarians and allergy sufferers:
- Excellent value for money and quality.
Flaws:
- Possible individual intolerance;
- High price;
- Possibility of purchasing only through online resources.
The drug contains:
| № | Name | Amount per serving | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Calories | 125 | |
| 2 | Fats | 14 g | 0.22 |
| 3 | Polysaccharides | 0 | |
| 4 | Monosaccharides | 0.5 g | |
| 5 | Cholesterol | 0 | 0 |
| 6 | Carbohydrates | 0 | 0 |
| Squirrels | 0 | 0 |
Eco-friendly oil made from fresh coconut pulp is not refined or exposed to molds. No solvents are used in its production, which gives the product a rich coconut flavor. The price for 473 g will be 645 rubles.
Advantages:
- Rich coconut flavor;
- Naturalness and environmental friendliness;
- No trans fatty acids;
- No hydrogenation;
- Great for vegans;
- Retains its basic properties and characteristics even during long-term storage;
- Contains coconut nuts;
- No gluten, wheat, soybeans, dairy, seafood, eggs, peanuts.
Flaws:
- Not very fragrant;
- Fewer beneficial properties than the above options;
- Can't buy offline;
- High price.
The drug contains:
| № | Name | Amount per serving | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Calories | 130 | |
| 2 | Fats | 14 g | 0.22 |
| 3 | Saturated fat | 13 g | 0.65 |
| 4 | Trans Fat | 0 | |
| 5 | Polysaccharides | 0.5 | |
| 6 | Monosaccharides | 0.5 | 0 |
| 7 | Cholesterol | 0 | 0 |
| 8 | Sodium | 0 | 0 |
| 9 | Carbohydrates | 0 | 0 |
| 10 | Squirrels | 0 |
This American-made coconut oil will increase the vitality of the body, thanks to the large number of beneficial components contained in it. The cost of this herbal product is 1,717 rubles.
Nutiva Coconut Oil
Advantages:
- Natural and environmentally friendly product;
- Unrefined;
- Perfect for a variety of dishes;
- Can be used for hair or skin care;
- No hexane, GMOs, pesticides;
- Great for allergy sufferers and vegetarians.
Flaws:
- High price.
The drug contains:
| № | Name | Amount per serving | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Calories | 130 | |
| 2 | Calories from fat | 130 | |
| 3 | Zhirov | 14 g | 0.22 |
| 4 | Saturated fat | 13 g | 0.65 |
| 5 | Monosaccharides | 0.5 g | |
| 6 | Cholesterol | 0 | 0 |
| 7 | Sodium | 0 | 0 |
| 8 | Squirrels | 0 | 0 |
| 9 | Carbohydrates | 0 | 0 |
Coconut oil is made from the dried fruit pulp. No solvents were used in production. This plant product is a source of medium chain triglycerides. The cost of coconut oil from this manufacturer will be 479 rubles.
Jarrow Formulas Coconut Oil
Advantages:
- Odorless;
- It contains many useful elements;
- Large container volume;
- The taste is neutral;
- Good for baking and salad dressing;
- Perfect for vegetarians and allergy sufferers;
- Can be used in liquid or solid form;
- Contains no soybeans, dairy, eggs, seafood, peanuts or wheat.
Flaws:
- Average cost;
- Not everyone likes the taste and lack of smell;
- Cannot be purchased in domestic stores.
The drug contains:
| № | Name | Amount per serving | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Calories | 130 | |
| 2 | Fats | 14 g | 0.22 |
| 3 | Saturated fats | 13 g | 0.65 |
| 4 | Polysaccharides | 0.5 g | |
| 5 | Monosaccharides | 0.5 g | |
| 6 | Cholesterol | 0 | 0 |
| 7 | Sodium | 0 | 0 |
| 8 | Carbohydrates | 0 | 0 |
California Gold Nutrition
With a light tropical aroma and taste, this superfood will appeal to many consumers. This oil is obtained by cold pressing the liquid from coconut fiber and then separating the oil, without the use of preservatives or bleaches. The cost of such oil will be 1,305 rubles per 1.6 liters.
California Gold Nutrition Coconut Oil
Advantages:
- Delicious;
- Useful;
- Nutritious;
- Universal;
- Unrefined;
- High quality.
Flaws:
- Plastic containers;
- Possibility of purchasing only online.
The drug contains:
| № | Name | Amount per serving | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Calories | 130 | |
| 2 | Fats | 14 g | 0.22 |
| 3 | Saturated fat | 13 g | 0.65 |
| 4 | Polysaccharides | 0.5 g | |
| 5 | Monosaccharides | 1 g | |
| 6 | Cholesterol | 0 | 0 |
| 7 | Sodium | 0 | 0 |
| 8 | Carbohydrates | 0 | 0 |
| 9 | Dietary fiber | 0 | 0 |
| 10 | Sugar | 0 | 0 |
| 11 | Iron | 0 | 0 |
| 12 | Potassium | 0 | 0 |
The environmentally friendly oil from this manufacturer will allow many consumers to enjoy the excellent taste and quality of this product. The cost of 1,530 g will be 1,305 rubles
Healthy Origins Coconut Oil
Advantages:
- Does not contain GMOs;
- It is distinguished by numerous useful qualities;
- Multifunctionality;
- Pleasant taste and smell;
- Unrefined;
- Does not clog pores;
- Suitable for the whole body;
- High quality oil.
Flaws:
- Possibility of purchasing only online;
- Ends quickly;
- Doesn't wash off hair well.
The drug contains:
| № | Name | Amount per serving | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Calories | 130 | |
| 2 | Calories from fat | 130 | |
| 3 | Zhirov | 14 g | 0.22 |
| 4 | Saturated fat | 13 g | 0.65 |
| 5 | Monosaccharides | 0.5 g | |
| 6 | Cholesterol | 0 | 0 |
| 7 | Sodium | 0 | 0 |
| 8 | Squirrels | 0 | 0 |
| 9 | Carbohydrates | 0 | 0 |
Artisana, Organics
The American manufacturer of this coconut oil has put a lot of effort into creating an organic, natural product. The oil is extracted from the fresh coconut kernel in a non-hydrogenated form. Perfect for indoor and outdoor use. The price of this product will be 755 rubles per 414 grams.
Coconut oil Artisana, Organics
Advantages:
- Does not contain GMOs;
- Suitable for vegetarians and allergy sufferers;
- Natural and environmentally friendly product;
- Great for making desserts;
- Can be consumed raw without adding other products;
- Pleasant taste and smell;
- Free from gluten, dairy and peanuts.
Flaws:
- Use in dishes other than desserts is not to everyone's taste;
- Can only be purchased in online stores;
- Average cost.
The drug contains:
| № | Name | Amount per serving | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Calories | 135 | |
| 2 | Fats | 15 g | 0.24 |
| 3 | Saturated fats | 14 g | 0.68 |
| 6 | Cholesterol | 0 | 0 |
| 7 | Sodium | 0 | 0 |
| 8 | Carbohydrates | 0 | 0 |
Delicious natural coconut oil is offered to consumers by the Garden of Life company. The high quality of the product has long allowed it to occupy a leading position in the modern market. Its cost is 988 rubles per 858 ml.
Garden of Life Coconut Oil
Advantages:
- Does not contain gluten and GMOs;
- Unrefined oil;
- Not a deodorized product;
- Perfect for vegans and allergy sufferers;
- Natural and environmentally friendly product;
- Can be consumed raw or for cooking various dishes;
- Used for facial, hair or skin care;
- Delicate soft taste and pleasant aroma;
- Does not contain harmful additives;
- The usefulness of the oil is due to the wide range of components it contains.
Flaws:
- High price;
- Not available for free sale.
The preparation contains
| № | Name | Amount per serving | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Calories | 125 | |
| 2 | Fats | 14 g | 0.22 |
| 3 | Saturated fat | 13.5 g | 0.68 |
| 4 | Trans Fat | 0 | |
| 7 | Cholesterol | 0 | 0 |
| 8 | Sodium | 0 | 0 |
| 9 | Carbohydrates | 0 | 0 |
| 10 | Squirrels | 0 |
This product is perfect for vegetarians and vegans, as it contains only healthy and natural ingredients. The cost of this product is 798 rubles per package, which contains 443 ml.
Source Naturals Coconut Oil
Advantages:
- Contains no yeast, dairy, eggs, corn or wheat;
- Gluten free;
- Without GMO;
- Does not contain dyes or preservatives;
- No fragrances;
- Natural and environmentally friendly products;
- Affordable price;
- Helps prevent the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy.
Flaws:
- Lack of ability to purchase offline;
- Plastic containers;
- Not suitable for everyone; consult a doctor before use;
- The taste is not for everyone;
- It ends quickly.
The drug contains:
| № | Name | Amount per serving | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Calories | 120 | |
| 2 | Fats | 14 g | 0.2 |
| 3 | Saturated fat | 12.5 g | 0.6 |
| 4 | Trans Fat | 0 | |
| 5 | Cholesterol | 0 | 0 |
Domestic coconut-based vegetable oils are quite expensive, so many compatriots, trying to save money, order them abroad. You can often purchase coconut oil at an affordable price only on the Internet. However, delivery may take different times. When ordering a similar herbal product in a plastic container, you may receive a product with damaged packaging. This happens especially often in the summer, when high temperatures easily melt plastic.
Vehicles transporting orders most often heat up to temperatures above 120 degrees, which is many times higher than normal. In this case, the consumer receives a product with damaged packaging or a product unsuitable for further use. Therefore, it is recommended to order delivery of coconut oil from foreign producers only in winter.