How to use coconut oil

If there's one natural product you absolutely must treat yourself to, it's cold-pressed coconut oil. It should not be confused with coconut oil. The latter is derived from the dried albumen of the coconut, and has undergone refining. Coconut oil, on the other hand, is obtained mechanically, by first cold pressing, from the flesh of the coconut, and undergoes no refining whatsoever. It is a pure oil. Inexpensive, it is now presented as having astonishing particularities that interest scientists. Studies are currently underway to confirm or refute its health benefits.

Both a food of choice and an astonishing beauty product, this vegetable oil derived from coconuts will have to wait a little longer for its status as an alternative therapy. Nevertheless, coconut oil can be used in the diet. As for the beneficial properties of coconut oil for hair, skin and teeth, they are unanimously recognized and appreciated.

Using coconut oil in the diet

Coconut oil is highly prized for its delicate taste, identical to that of fresh coconut. This characteristic is only detectable in unrefined coconut oils. It is therefore a criterion of choice. It is also considered practical for its high heat resistance. It can be used for a variety of cooking processes, including frying, pan-frying, baking and wok cooking. It can, however, be eaten raw in the same way as butter, especially as its ointment-like consistency makes it easy to spread. This vegetable oil is extremely rich in saturated fatty acids, two-thirds of which are short- and medium-chain. These fatty acids have less of a bad reputation than those with long and very long chains.

Coconut oil can therefore be consumed in moderation if it is organic and cold-pressed. But don't overlook the benefits of vegetable oils rich in omega-3 and omega-9, unsaturated fatty acids with recognized health benefits. Coconut oil can be used to make delicious drinks, hot or cold. Exotic savoury recipes often include this vegetable oil, whether for cooking meat, seafood or fish. It is also used in pastries such as fritters. It can be stored in an airtight jar, either at room temperature for five or six months, or in the refrigerator for up to 24 months. It liquefies and becomes transparent at temperatures above 25°C, whereas it is solid and white below. It retains its qualities in both cases.

Coconut oil, a recognized beauty ally

Using coconut oil as a cosmetic is nothing new, since it was already part of the beauty ritual of Polynesian peoples thousands of years ago. The ideal choice is an organic oil free from traces of pesticides. A hair care product par excellence, coconut oil nourishes hair, leaving it shiny, soft and easy to style. It also promotes hair regrowth. Repairing, it can be used as a hair mask once or twice a week. Using coconut oil to enhance your skin is an effective and economical solution. Here again, its nourishing power makes it an ideal beauty cream for dry, devitalized skin. It delays the appearance of wrinkles. It is therefore recommended for both young and mature skin. Its healing action makes it indispensable for superficial cuts, chapped lips, damaged hands or calluses on heels.

Coconut oil can be massaged in daily to reduce the risk of stretch marks, during pregnancy or simply to keep skin supple, soft and delicately scented. It's the ideal make-up remover, as it eliminates all impurities and make-up residues accumulated during the day. When you get up in the morning, it's just as important to cleanse your face with coconut oil, for flawless skin and a beautiful complexion. Finally, add sodium bicarbonate to make a homemade ointment capable of attenuating scars