and mild flavor, without the harsh chemicals and unhealthy hydrogenation.
Fractionated Coconut Oils
The process of fractionating coconut oil involves steam heat and pressure hydrolysis to separate the various fatty acids and remove the long-chained fat molecules. The result of this process is a highly stable product that is free of impurities and has a long shelf life. Fractionated coconut oils are used widely in the cosmetic industry.
Virgin Coconut Oils
Virgin coconut oils have a stronger, more coconut-y flavor because they have undergone minimal processing. Because it has not been overly tampered with, more of the nutrients from the coconut plant itself will be intact. As far as taste is concerned, it depends mostly on the quality of the coconuts to begin with as well as the individual palate of the one consuming it. Since it has a strong coconut flavor, it is less versatile than the refined coconut oils.
Different brands will have stronger or milder flavors, so each person can find the one that best suits his or her taste buds. Unfortunately, the label does not necessarily indicate how strong the flavor will be. The terms "virgin" and "extra-virgin" have no real meaning in this context. Coconut enthusiasts who desire a strong coconut flavor will have to experiment with different varieties of virgin coconut oil until they find one that satisfies their craving for coconut-y goodness.
Organic Coconut Oils
The term "organic" in coconut oil terminology refers to the way that the coconuts are grown - namely, without chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The benefits of choosing organic coconut oil are the same as when you are choosing organic anything. The idea is to preserve nature by not polluting it with artificial substances as well as eliminate the risk of harmful pesticides ending up in your food.
Many people prefer organic because they feel that it insures that they are purchasing a high quality product. Others are more skeptical because it can be nearly impossible to tell a difference between organic and conventionally-grown product by the taste or odor. However, most organically-grown coconuts are used in unrefined coconut oils which are inherently higher quality than refined coconut oils anyway.
Extracting Methods
This final category refers to the way the oil is harvested from the coconut itself. Any of these methods can used to make either organic, virgin, or refined coconut oils. While there may be some small differences in the nutritional content of the oils produced from these methods, the main difference is taste. The more the coconut is heated during the oil-extracting process, the more of a nutty, "toasted" flavor the oil will have.
Expeller Pressed Coconut Oil
The expeller pressing method of coconut oil extraction employs the use of a giant expeller press to squeeze the oil out of the nut. The forces of friction are powerful enough to heat the oil to approximately 210 degrees Fahrenheit. This method extracts virtually all of the oil from the flesh of the coconut, making the expeller pressing method popular among coconut oil manufacturers. However, some consumers are concerned that the heating of the coconuts during this process sacrifices some of the nutritional value. Others do not care for the "toasted" aftertaste of expeller pressed coconut oil.
Cold Pressed Coconut Oil
In the cold pressed method, the oil is harvested from the coconut at temperatures less than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The lower temperature means that some of the oil will remain in the white, fleshy coconut meat to be discarded or used as livestock feed. This means that cold pressed coconut oil tends to be a bit pricier than expeller pressed. However, many people prefer it because of its flavor and nutritional content.
Centrifuged Coconut Oil
A less common method of oil extraction is known as the centrifugal method. In this method, the coconut meat is mixed with water and spun at speeds high enough to separate the oil, water, and flesh. This method exposes the coconut to even lower temperatures than cold presses. However, centrifuged coconut oil tends to have a much shorter shelf life than other types because it is nearly impossible to get all the water out of the final product.
Conclusion
For the most part, which type of coconut oil is best is a matter of personal opinion. The different extracting methods, degree of processing, and coconut-growing techniques will all yield a different taste and nutritional content. The one type of coconut oil that is significantly inferior to the others is anything that has been hydrogenated. The hydrogenation process defeats the purpose of choosing coconut oil.
Chapter 4- How Coconut Oil Can Be Used For Skin Care
As it pertains to looking beautiful or maintaining standing health, it is essential that the skin be taken care of. This is partly due to the environment that we live in. With the sun beating down on our skin throughout any given day, and harmful substances declaring combat at any given moment, our skin is constantly at risk; therefore, it needs to be properly protected. Aside from prescriptions and over the counter ointments, hundreds of people have developed their own home remedies. And hundreds of thousands are frustrated because nothing they conjure up seems to be working. Have you considered coconut oil? Experts and consumers alike have come to the conclusion that the natural substances found in coconut oil are entirely beneficial to the skin. Below are eight different ways coconut oil can be used for skin care.
Softens Dry Skin
If you're using coconut oil on the go, you won't see maximum benefits any time soon. The best way to use coconut oil is several hours before you're planning on going out. This will give it the opportunity to settle onto your skin and do its work before being overly exposed to damaging elements. Keep a bottle of the oil near your kitchen and bathroom sink and by your bed to use after doing the dishes, getting out of the shower, and before going to bed. Coconut oil is perfect for softening the dried or callused skin that comes from the sun's damaging rays, hard, hot water, and any other exposure that you may come into contact with.
Brightens Facial Skin
Don't waste your money on expensive, store bought products to erase the effects of exhaustion. Makeup brands use coconut oil as a base ingredient in their formulas because of its natural glow. Just smear a small amount of the oil on top of your makeup and let it sit. This will lighten your facial skin while complimenting your normal makeup wear. Allow it to dry before going out so that it has the proper time to moisturize your face.
As a Body Moisturizer
Coconut oil is perfect for large usage doses. Fully applying it to the skin demonstrates many of its benefits. Before you go to bed and right after coming out of the shower or bathtub, apply the coconut oil around your body. This will keep your skin durable, strong, and healthy. Never stress over your aging skin again! Coconut oil is naturally helpful in clearing away dead skin. It can also be used with other skin lotion agents for more results. Apply it to your legs, arms, and body for a comfortable smoothness that you're willing to show off!
Skin Cleansing
Coconut oil is naturally antibacterial, antifungal, and moisturizing. According to recent studies, it is also fantastic for atopic dermatitis. Rub the oil on your skin in a circular motion (focus on your face and neck); massage as you rub. After applying the coconut oil, wash it off with a different cleanser of your choice. Not only will you feel immediately cleaner, but you'll look it to. Be sure to get into a habit of cleaning your skin this way for better results. Work it into your day to day routine so that you're not rushing it.
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