The Benefits of Using 100% Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
The Benefits of Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Extra virgin coconut oil is an oil that is gradually becoming more and more popular. It is a versatile oil that can be used in various ways with numerous benefits. Coconut oil is a saturated oil, but it is a medium-chain triglyceride, which implies that it is different from the long-chain triglycerides found in other oils and fats. The unique thing about coconut oil is its high amounts of lauric acid, which is primarily responsible for its numerous benefits. Below are some of the benefits of extra virgin coconut oil.
1. Boosts immune system
One of the benefits of extra virgin coconut oil is that it can help boost the immune system. The lauric acid, present in coconut oil, is also present in human breast milk. It contains monolaurin, which is a substance that helps boost the immune system. Coconut oil has the ability to fight off harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Consuming coconut oil on a regular basis could, therefore, help to maintain the health of your immune system.
Another way that extra virgin coconut oil helps boost the immune system is by reducing inflammation. Inflammation is one of the major causes of many chronic diseases. Coconut oil contains antioxidants that can help to reduce inflammation, thereby improving the immune system.
Drinking a tablespoon of extra virgin coconut oil daily can help boost your immune system. If you are prone to infections, you can easily use extra virgin coconut oil in your cooking. This way, you can get its health benefits while also enjoying its unique flavor.
2. Promotes healthy skin
Extra virgin coconut oil is an excellent natural moisturizer for the skin. It contains fatty acids that penetrate the skin and keep it moisturized. These fatty acids also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce skin inflammation and irritation.
In addition to being a moisturizer, coconut oil can also help prevent acne. It does this by killing harmful bacteria on the skin. The lauric acid present in coconut oil can help kill the bacteria that cause acne, making it an excellent natural remedy for acne-prone skin.
Lastly, coconut oil has anti-aging properties. It contains antioxidants and vitamin E, which protect the skin from free radicals that cause premature aging. By applying extra virgin coconut oil to your skin, you can keep your skin looking young and healthy.
3. Aids Digestion
Extra virgin coconut oil can also aid digestion. The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil can help reduce gut inflammation, which is responsible for many digestive problems. Coconut oil also contains medium-chain triglycerides, which are easier to digest than the long-chain triglycerides found in other oils and fats.
The lauric acid present in coconut oil also has a positive effect on the gut, as it gets converted into monolaurin by the body. Monolaurin has antimicrobial properties, which help get rid of harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the gut. By taking extra virgin coconut oil, you can, therefore, maintain good gut health and regular bowel movements.
In conclusion, extra virgin coconut oil is a versatile oil with numerous benefits. It is an excellent natural remedy for a variety of ailments, and it has been used for centuries in many cultures for medicinal purposes. Consuming extra virgin coconut oil regularly can help boost your immune system, promote healthy skin, and aid digestion.
How Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is Made
Extra virgin coconut oil is a popular cooking oil and has numerous health benefits. It is made by pressing fresh coconut meat to extract the oil. The process of producing extra virgin coconut oil is a simple one but requires high-quality coconut fruits being used.
The first step in the extra virgin coconut oil production process begins with selecting fresh coconuts that are free of mold and contaminants. These coconuts are harvested and sent to the processing plant. At the plant, the coconuts are then washed and cleaned to remove any dirt or impurities present on their surface. They are then split open, and the white meat inside the coconut is removed.
Once the white meat has been extracted, it is washed with clean water to remove any remaining dirt or debris that got attached while separating from the shell. After washing, the white meat is ground into small pieces. The small pieces of white meat are then dried in an oven or the sun for several hours. Drying the coconut meat helps to remove excess moisture.
The dried coconut meat is then pressed at high pressure to extract the oil from the meat. The pressing process yields a creamy substance that is further heated to separate the oil from the protein and water. At this stage, the oil is filtered and is considered extra virgin coconut oil.
The traditional method of extracting the oil from the coconut meat is through machine methods, but some companies still use a manual method. This process involves hand-grinding the coconut meat and expressing the oil manually.
In conclusion, the production of extra virgin coconut oil is a relatively simple process that requires high-quality coconuts. The oil is extracted by pressing fresh coconut meat to yield a creamy substance that is further heated to separate the oil from water and protein. Extra virgin coconut oil is an excellent cooking oil due to its numerous health benefits, including increased heart health, promoting weight loss, and helping to prevent infections.
Cooking with Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Extra virgin coconut oil is becoming increasingly popular as a healthier alternative to other cooking oils. Its high smoke point and mild flavor make it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. Here are some creative ways to use extra virgin coconut oil in your cooking:
- Saute Vegetables
Using extra virgin coconut oil as a cooking oil is perfect for sauteing vegetables. It pairs well with the natural flavors of vegetables, and adds a slightly sweet and nutty taste. Start by heating the extra virgin coconut oil in a pan on medium-high heat. Once the oil has melted, add your vegetables and season them with your choice of spices. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are cooked to your liking. The end result will be a tasty and healthy side dish for any meal.
- Fry Foods
Fried foods can be delicious, but they aren’t always the healthiest option. Using extra virgin coconut oil as a frying oil can help improve the nutritional value of your fried foods. It is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which studies have shown can promote weight loss and improve brain function. To use extra virgin coconut oil as a frying oil, heat it in a pan over medium heat until it is hot. Next, add your food and fry until golden brown.
- Bake
Extra virgin coconut oil can also be used for baking. Its natural sweetness and mild flavor make it a perfect addition to baked goods. It can be used in place of butter or other oils in recipes, and it can also be used to grease baking pans. When using extra virgin coconut oil for baking, start by melting it and then measuring out the desired amount. It’s also recommended to use it in recipes that have a lower cooking temperature, as it has a lower smoke point than other oils.
- Make Popcorn
For a healthier alternative to microwave popcorn, try making your own popcorn using extra virgin coconut oil. The oil adds a delicious flavor to the popcorn and can also be used as a replacement for butter. Heat the extra virgin coconut oil in a pot on medium-high heat until it has melted. Add popcorn kernels to the pot and cover it with a lid. As the kernels begin to pop, shake the pot occasionally to ensure that the unpopped kernels don’t burn. Once all the kernels have popped, remove the pot from the heat and add your desired seasonings.
Extra virgin coconut oil is a versatile and healthy ingredient that you can use to enhance the taste and nutritional value of your meals. From sauteing vegetables to making popcorn, there are many creative ways to incorporate it into your cooking. Give it a try and experience the many benefits that extra virgin coconut oil has to offer.
Skincare and Beauty Benefits of Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Extra virgin coconut oil has become very popular in the skincare industry because of its numerous benefits. It contains natural ingredients that make it suitable for all skin types, including oily, dry, and sensitive skin. Unlike other synthetic skincare products, extra virgin coconut oil doesn’t clog skin pores, making it an excellent option for daily skin care routines. Here are the top four skincare and beauty benefits of extra virgin coconut oil:
1. Moisturizes the Skin
Extra virgin coconut oil is an excellent natural moisturizer for your skin. It helps to hydrate the skin and restore its natural oil balance. The skin absorbs the oil quickly, leaving it looking fresh and moisturized. Coconut oil has an anti-inflammatory effect, making it a suitable treatment for dry and itchy skin.
2. Anti-Aging Properties
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of extra virgin coconut oil make it an excellent product for reducing the signs of aging. Coconut oil contains vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps to reduce the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can cause wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging.
3. Soothes Sunburned Skin
Extra virgin coconut oil contains anti-inflammatory properties that make it a useful treatment for sunburned skin. The oil helps to soothe the skin and reduces redness, itching, and irritation caused by sunburn. It also helps to restore the skin’s natural moisture balance, leaving it soft and supple.
4. Treats Acne
Extra virgin coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it an excellent treatment for acne prone skin. The oil helps to clear the skin by removing dirt, impurities, and excess oil that causes acne. Unlike other synthetic products, it doesn’t dry out the skin, thereby preventing further breakouts.
In conclusion, extra virgin coconut oil has numerous benefits for the skin. It is a natural product that soothes dry and itchy skin, has anti-aging properties, treats acne, and is an excellent natural moisturizer. It is a versatile product that is suitable for all skin types, making it a must-have in every skincare routine. Whether you apply it directly to the skin or mix it with other skincare products, you can’t go wrong with extra virgin coconut oil.
Incorporating Extra Virgin Coconut Oil into Your Daily Routine
Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (EVCO) is an incredibly nutritious and versatile oil that can be incorporated into your daily routine in numerous ways. Here are five ideas for how to use EVCO every day:
- Cooking with Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
EVCO has a high smoke point, which makes it a great option for cooking at high temperatures. You can use it to fry eggs, sauté vegetables or meats, and even bake. It adds a slight coconut flavor to whatever you are cooking, which can be a delicious addition to many dishes.
- Oil Pulling with Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around in your mouth for 20 minutes or so to improve oral health. EVCO is an excellent oil to use for oil pulling because of its antimicrobial properties. Simply take a tablespoon of EVCO and swish it around your mouth for 20 minutes, then spit it out into the trash (not the sink, as it can clog your pipes).
- Moisturizing with Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
EVCO is a great natural moisturizer for your skin and hair. It’s rich in medium-chain fatty acids that penetrate the skin’s surface and provide moisture and hydration. Rub a small amount of EVCO on your skin after a shower or bath, or use it as a hair mask by applying it to your hair before shampooing.
- Using Extra Virgin Coconut Oil as a Massage Oil
EVCO can also be used as a massage oil because of its silky texture and moisturizing properties. Warm up a small amount of oil in your hands, then apply it to your skin and massage gently. The coconut scent is also incredibly relaxing.
- Adding Extra Virgin Coconut Oil to Your Smoothies
EVCO adds a creamy texture and a boost of healthy fats to your smoothies. It’s a great option for people who are following a low-carb or ketogenic diet because it helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. Simply add a tablespoon or two to your favorite smoothie recipe and blend well.