The Benefits and Uses of Pressed Coconut Oil

The Process of Pressing Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a popular oil that is extracted from the meat of mature coconuts. It is a healthy oil that has a myriad of uses and benefits. One of the ways this oil can be produced is through the process of pressing. In this process, the oil is extracted from the coconut by pressing it using various methods and equipment. Here is a detailed look at how coconut oil is pressed:

The First Stage: Drying the Coconut

The first step in the process of pressing coconut oil involves drying the coconut meat. This is done to remove any excess moisture and to make the oil extraction process easier. There are two main ways to dry the coconut meat:

• Sun-drying: This method involves spreading the coconut meat in the sun to dry. The meat is left to dry for several days until it becomes completely dry. This method is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, but it is not suitable in areas that experience frequent rains or high humidity.
• Kiln-drying: This method involves using a kiln or oven to dry the coconut meat. The meat is placed in the kiln and left to dry for several hours. This method is faster than sun-drying, but it is more expensive and less environmentally friendly.

The Second Stage: Extracting the Oil

After the coconut meat has been dried, the next step is to extract the oil. There are several methods used to extract coconut oil:

• Cold-pressing: This is the most common method of extracting coconut oil. In this method, the coconut meat is ground into a fine powder and the oil is extracted using a cold-press method. This method involves pressing the coconut meat using a hydraulic press to extract the oil. This method is preferred because it preserves the natural flavor and aroma of the oil.
• Expeller-pressing: This method is similar to cold-pressing but involves using a machine called an expeller press to extract the oil. The expeller press applies pressure to the coconut meat to extract the oil. This method is faster than cold-pressing but may result in a lower-quality oil.
• Centrifuge Extraction: In this method, the coconut meat is ground into a fine powder and then mixed with water. The mixture is then spun in a centrifuge machine to separate the oil from the water. This method is faster than cold-pressing and expeller-pressing but may result in a lower-quality oil.

The Third Stage: Filtering and Refining the Oil

After the oil has been extracted, it is filtered to remove any impurities. The oil may also be refined to improve its quality, color, and flavor. Two common refining methods are:

• Chemical Refining: In this method, the oil is treated with chemicals such as sodium hydroxide to remove any impurities. The oil is then neutralized, washed, and deodorized to improve its flavor.
• Physical Refining: This method involves filtering the oil through activated carbon to remove any impurities. The oil is then steam-distilled to remove any remaining impurities and improve its flavor.

The Final Stage: Packaging and Storage

After the oil has been extracted and refined, it is packaged and stored. The oil is usually packaged in glass or plastic bottles and stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Proper storage of the oil is important to maintain its quality and flavor.

Overall, the process of pressing coconut oil is a complex process that involves several stages. From drying the coconut meat to extracting the oil and refining it, each stage plays an important role in producing high-quality coconut oil.

Benefits of Pressed Coconut Oil for Skin

Pressed coconut oil is the oil that is obtained from dried coconut meat, which is further purified by squeezing out the oil. Coconut oil has a long history of use for skin care and beauty purposes across various cultures. In recent times, the demand for coconut oil has increased, as people have become more aware of its numerous benefits for skin health.

Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain fatty acids and triglycerides, which makes it a perfect moisturizer for the skin. It is also loaded with antioxidants, making it an excellent anti-aging solution for the skin. Here are some other benefits of using pressed coconut oil for the skin:

1. Improves Skin Elasticity

Pressed coconut oil contains lauric acid, which is known to stimulate collagen production in the skin. Collagen is a protein that is responsible for skin elasticity. As we age, collagen production in the body decreases, resulting in wrinkles and fine lines. Applying coconut oil on the skin can help restore skin elasticity and firmness.

2. Helps Treat Acne and Blemishes

Coconut oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it an effective remedy for acne-prone skin. The fatty acids in coconut oil help reduce inflammation and redness caused by acne. It also helps unclog pores and prevent future breakouts. However, it is important to note that coconut oil may not work for everyone, and people with oily skin should use it with caution as it can clog pores.

3. Soothes Sunburns

Pressed coconut oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and heal sunburns. It can also act as a barrier to prevent further damage to the skin. The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil can also help reduce redness and skin damage caused by excessive sun exposure.

4. Works as a Makeup Remover

Coconut oil is a natural and cost-effective makeup remover that works well even for waterproof makeup. It gently removes makeup without stripping the skin’s natural oils and does not cause irritation or dryness. You can simply apply coconut oil on a cotton pad and wipe off makeup from your face and eyes.

5. Reduces the Appearance of Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are a common skin problem that occurs due to sudden weight gain or loss. Coconut oil can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks by hydrating the skin and improving elasticity. Applying coconut oil on stretch marks regularly can help fade them over time.

In conclusion, pressed coconut oil is a versatile and powerful natural ingredient that can benefit various skin types. However, it is important to use pure and unrefined coconut oil, as some products may contain added chemicals and preservatives that can harm the skin. So, incorporate coconut oil into your skincare routine and enjoy its numerous benefits for healthy and glowing skin.

Recipes Using Pressed Coconut Oil

Pressed coconut oil is a versatile and healthy cooking oil that can be used in a wide range of recipes. Below are some easy, healthy and delicious recipes that you can cook with pressed coconut oil:

1. Coconut Roasted Vegetables

This is a healthy and delicious side dish or snack for veggie lovers. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut up your favorite vegetables, such as sweet potato, carrots, broccoli, onion and bell pepper, in bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons pressed coconut oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Toss the vegetables in the mixture until evenly coated and transfer them to the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned. Take them out of the oven and sprinkle with shredded coconut. Serve hot and enjoy!

2. Coconut Curry Chicken

This is a flavorful and comforting meal that can be served with rice or naan bread. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons pressed coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon minced ginger and 1 tablespoon curry powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the onion is soft. Add 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Add 1 can of full-fat coconut milk and 1 cup of chicken broth. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

3. Blueberry Banana Coconut Muffins

This is a perfect recipe for a healthy breakfast or snack. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners. In a bowl, mix 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon salt. In another bowl, mash 2 ripe bananas and mix them with 1/4 cup pressed coconut oil, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk and 1 egg. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in 1 cup fresh blueberries and 1/4 cup shredded coconut. Fill each muffin cup with the batter and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Take them out of the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes before serving.

4. Coconut Granola

This is an easy and healthy recipe for a crunchy and nutty breakfast cereal. Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix 2 cups rolled oats, 1 cup nuts of your choice, such as almonds, pecans or walnuts, 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds, 1/4 cup sunflower seeds, 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, 1/4 cup pressed coconut oil, 1/4 cup honey and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Toss the mixture until evenly coated and spread it onto the baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown, stirring the granola every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking. Take it out of the oven and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.

There are countless other recipes that can be cooked with pressed coconut oil, such as stir-fries, smoothies, salad dressings and baked goods. So get creative in the kitchen and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find your favorite recipes!

The Difference Between Refined and Unrefined Pressed Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is one of the healthiest oils that you can use for cooking. It has a high smoke point which makes it suitable for frying, sautéing, and roasting. Coconut oil is also rich in lauric acid which has antibacterial and antiviral properties. There are two types of coconut oil in the market – refined and unrefined. Refined coconut oil is processed using high heat and chemicals while unrefined coconut oil is extracted using cold press method. But what’s the difference between these two types of coconut oil?

Refined coconut oil

Refined coconut oil is extracted from dried coconut meat or copra. It undergoes a series of processes such as bleaching, deodorizing, and refining to make it suitable for cooking. This type of coconut oil has a neutral flavor and aroma which makes it perfect for baking and cooking dishes that require a neutral oil taste. Refined coconut oil has a high smoke point which makes it ideal for deep-frying.

However, the refining process strips off the nutrients and beneficial compounds of the coconut oil. It also involves using chemicals to extract the oil from the copra. Refined coconut oil is also highly processed which means it has gone through a series of industrial processing. This makes it less natural than unrefined coconut oil.

Unrefined coconut oil

Unrefined coconut oil is extracted using cold press method where fresh coconut meat is squeezed to extract the oil. This process involves minimal processing which preserves the nutrients and beneficial compounds of the coconut oil. Unrefined coconut oil has a strong coconut flavor and aroma which makes it perfect for dishes that require a coconut taste.

The downside of unrefined coconut oil is that it has a lower smoke point compared to refined coconut oil. As a result, it is not suitable for deep-frying or high-temperature cooking. However, you can use unrefined coconut oil for sautéing, baking, and making smoothies. It also has more health benefits compared to refined coconut oil because it is minimally processed. It contains more antioxidants and vitamins compared to refined coconut oil.

Which one should you use?

Choosing between refined and unrefined coconut oil depends on what you’re using it for. If you’re deep-frying or cooking at high temperatures, then it’s better to use refined coconut oil because of its high smoke point. However, if you’re using coconut oil for baking or making smoothies, then unrefined coconut oil is your best choice because it has more nutrients and is less processed.

Regardless of the type of coconut oil you choose, always make sure that you purchase a high-quality brand. Look for organic, virgin, and cold-pressed coconut oil to ensure that you’re getting the best quality.

In summary

Refined coconut oil is processed using chemicals and high heat. It has a neutral flavor and aroma which makes it suitable for deep-frying and cooking at high temperatures. But, it also lacks nutrients and is highly processed. Meanwhile, unrefined coconut oil is extracted using cold-press method with minimal processing. It has a strong coconut flavor and aroma which makes it perfect for baking and making smoothies. Though, it has a lower smoke point and is less suitable for high-temperature cooking. Choose the right type of coconut oil based on your needs, and make sure to purchase a high-quality brand.

Using Pressed Coconut Oil for Hair Care: How and Why

Coconut oil has a plethora of health benefits, and using it for hair care is one of them. It is a natural conditioner that can help nourish and strengthen your hair. Coconut oil can be used for any hair type and can improve the overall health of your scalp. Here are some ways to use pressed coconut oil for your hair care routine:

1. As a pre-shampoo treatment

Before shampooing, gently massage coconut oil onto your scalp and hair. Allow the oil to sit for at least 15-20 minutes or overnight for a more intense treatment. Shampoo your hair as usual. This treatment can help moisturize dry hair and prevent breakage.

2. As a leave-in conditioner

You can also use coconut oil as a leave-in conditioner. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the ends of your hair to help prevent split ends and provide added moisture. Be sure to use only a small amount to avoid a greasy or oily look.

3. For scalp health

Using coconut oil on your scalp can help maintain a healthy environment for your hair. Simply massage coconut oil onto your scalp and hair, and then rinse thoroughly. This can help prevent dandruff, dry scalp, and irritation.

4. As a hair mask

You can create a hair mask with coconut oil to give your hair a deep conditioning treatment. Mix coconut oil with honey, avocado, or egg yolks for added moisture and nutrients. Apply the mixture to your hair and leave it on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing it off.

5. To promote hair growth

Coconut oil can also promote hair growth. The lauric acid in coconut oil can penetrate hair follicles, providing nourishment and strengthening them. Simply massage coconut oil onto your scalp and hair and leave it on overnight for maximum benefits.

Coconut oil is a versatile, natural ingredient that can help improve the overall health of your hair. Whether you use it as a leave-in conditioner, a pre-shampoo treatment, or a hair mask, coconut oil can provide added moisture and nutrients that your hair needs. Try using coconut oil in your hair care routine, and you’ll see the difference it can make!