Unrefined coconut oil – properties, composition, application. Advantages and disadvantages of unrefined coconut oil

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Coconut oil is very popular both in the kitchen and in cosmetics. This is mainly due to its pro-health properties. It can also be used as a cosmetic and applied to the face and hair. Is coconut oil really healthy? What are its properties and application? What is unrefined and refined coconut oil?

Unrefined coconut oil – composition and properties

Commonly, unrefined coconut oil is considered the healthiest on earth. This is due to the presence of specific fat molecules in its composition – medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). For this reason, it is recommended for people whose goal is to lose weight.

The composition of coconut oil largely depends on the method of obtaining it. Cold pressed oil – i.e. unrefined coconut oil – is considered the healthier version of it. It is obtained using mechanical methods. These include activities such as sedimentation (separation of liquids and solids due to the fall of the latter under the influence of gravity), pressing, filtration or centrifugation.

It is solid at temperatures up to 26 degrees Celsius. It liquefies at higher temperatures. It is white with distinct rings. It is also characterized by a pleasant, delicate coconut scent. However, it also has disadvantages – usually it has a short expiry date and is much more expensive than the second variety, which is refined coconut oil.

It is better to avoid it – it has a lower price and a longer shelf life, but it comes at the expense of quality. Refined coconut oil is obtained using high temperatures. This process is often accompanied by the use of artificial solvents. As a result of this interaction, refined coconut oil is deprived of all the health-promoting properties of the unrefined variety. This type of oil is tasteless and odorless. However, if someone does not like the smell and taste of coconut, it is worth trying Intenson Refined Coconut Oil, which you can buy at Medonet Market at an attractive price.

Unrefined coconut oil is rich in certain elements such as calcium, iron and zinc. Moreover, it is a valuable source of vitamins E and K. Unfiltered EKO coconut oil is sold on Medonet Market in packages of 440 ml and 900 ml.

Read also: Perfect linseed oil – properties and application

Unrefined coconut oil – pros and cons

Unrefined coconut oil causes a lot of controversy among scientists. It has numerous fans, but there is also a group of people who believe that it does not have a beneficial effect on the human body, on the contrary – it harms it. Such divergent opinions are caused by the presence of large amounts of saturated fatty acids in its composition, which have a negative impact on health.

They increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. It is estimated that unrefined coconut oil contains approximately nine times more saturated fatty acids than their healthy counterparts – unsaturated fatty acids. Some people put unrefined coconut oil on a par with lard or butter when it comes to raising the level of bad cholesterol in the blood. However, it is worth remembering that the saturated fatty acids contained in it have a slightly different structure than those with an exceptionally bad reputation.

They have a medium-chain form, while animal fats, for example, are mainly long-chain. There is no scientific confirmation that medium-chain acids have a negative effect on human health.

Read: Saturated fats – what are they? Sources of saturated fat, their functions in the body and impact on human health

Unrefined coconut oil – application

The composition of this substance means that it can be successfully used in care. Unrefined coconut oil can accelerate wound healing, soothe burns, and reduce inflammation in the body. Moreover, it works well as a cosmetic. Can be used instead of face cream. It has moisturizing properties and also smoothes the skin.

Its antibacterial effect means it can be used to fight acne. It can also be applied to the hair – it will also deeply moisturize and strengthen it, penetrating deeply into the hair cuticles. To nourish your hair and forget about split ends, try Orientana Oil – therapy for damaged hair with coconut oil.

Unrefined and refined coconut oil – differences in application

Let’s look at the different ways coconut oil can be used and in which situations it will be better to use unrefined coconut oil and refined coconut oil.

Unrefined coconut oil and skin protection

Coconut oil is a popular skin and hair moisturizer, but does it matter what type you use? Not exactly. As a cosmetic product, unrefined coconut oil is the preferred type – because the lack of processing means that the coconut oil retains everything that nature has given it, i.e. all the nutrients.

Some phytonutrients and polyphenols are lost in the refining process, and while this has no nutritional value, these compounds may have some skin benefits. If you don’t like the smell of unrefined coconut oil, you can opt for a refined version instead.

Are you looking for an oil that can be used both in the kitchen and in body care? Reach for EKO Bioherba Fragrance Unrefined Coconut Oil.

Unrefined coconut oil and cooking

Both unrefined and refined coconut oil are great for cooking, so which one you choose depends on the type of food you are cooking. The subtle flavor of coconut may complement or interfere with other flavors in the dish – this should be borne in mind as unrefined coconut oil will give your meal a deep taste. If you’re looking for a neutral cooking oil, refined coconut oil is your best bet. It is also a better choice for high temperature cooking due to its higher smoke index.

Try BIO Intenson coconut mousse cold – perfect for desserts, cocktails, omelettes and sandwiches. We also recommend Coconut Oil Spray – Cooking Spray Coconut Oil OstroVit available on Medonet Market at a promotional price. Coconut oil is part of Energy for Coffee – an additive based on ghee, which also contains cinnamon and cardamom, giving coffee a unique flavor and aroma.

Unrefined coconut oil and baking

For baking, the same considerations need to be considered, namely whether the smooth coconut flavor will suit the food you are preparing. However, unlike cooking, the smoke point is not an important factor when baking: unrefined coconut oil does not burn when used as a baking ingredient, even in a hot oven.

Buy Intenson bio virgin coconut oil and see how you can use it. You can find the product at an attractive price on the Medonet Market.

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Unrefined coconut oil for hair

Healthy hair depends on protein (keratin) which is the main ingredient of your hair. However, chemical processes like dyeing and bleaching, and even everyday activities like washing and styling, can damage the protein and wreak havoc on your hair. There is some evidence that lauric acid (a type of saturated fatty acid found in coconut oil) may benefit your hair by protecting it from protein loss.

One of the most versatile hair oils, coconut oil can work wonders as a pre-shampoo treatment, conditioner, styling agent, or mask. Here are four simple ways to liven up your daily hair care routine with unrefined coconut oil:

1. apply unrefined coconut oil before washing your hair – when applied before washing, unrefined coconut oil can stop the hair from soaking in too much water (which in turn prevents damage and dryness). Try applying coconut oil about 15 to 30 minutes before shampooing, focusing on the length and ends of your hair.
2. use unrefined coconut oil as a conditioner – Like any good conditioner, unrefined coconut oil can help strengthen the hair structure and prevent breakage. You can use coconut oil as an alternative to standard conditioner or simply add a few drops of oil to your regular conditioner to increase its smoothing effect.
3. use unrefined coconut oil as a styling agent – just a little coconut oil is enough to relieve frizz. To facilitate absorption and optimal styling, apply the oil to damp hair.
4. use unrefined coconut oil as a hair mask – For a wonderful and nourishing hair treatment, massage a teaspoon or two into your hair and let the magic work to soften your hair. The oil can be washed off after a few hours or left overnight for extremely dry or damaged hair.

While coconut oil can benefit all hair types – especially dry, damaged or color-treated hair – there is a concern that repeated use of unrefined coconut oil can lead to a stiff, coarse texture hair.

Here are some helpful tips on how to get the most out of unrefined coconut oil in your hair care routine:

1. warm the oil first – Unrefined coconut oil can be easier to use if you heat it before applying it to your hair. Pour a teaspoon of oil into the bowl and place the bowl in a bowl partially filled with hot water. After a few minutes, the coconut oil will become liquid. Avoid heating the oil in a microwave oven so that it does not become dangerously hot,
2. use moderation Although fairly light, unrefined coconut oil can weigh your hair down or cause a dull, greasy appearance when used in excess. To avoid excessive build-up, start with a small amount – no more than a teaspoon – and gently massage the oil into your hair, starting at the middle of the hair and working down to the ends.
3. do not cover the scalp Some people find that applying coconut oil directly to the scalp can relieve dryness, but others struggle with issues such as irritation and clogged pores. If you’ve never used unrefined coconut oil on your scalp, be careful starting with a very small amount.

Also check: How to moisturize your hair? – proven methods for dry hair

Unrefined coconut oil under the eyes

While there are plenty of moisturizing eye creams on the market, unrefined coconut oil is just as beneficial. If you’re dealing with dryness under your eyes – whether it’s from cooler weather, dehydration, or simply getting older – applying coconut oil under the eyes can rejuvenate your complexion.

Simply apply a light layer of unrefined coconut oil under your eyes to moisturize and protect your skin. It’s best to do this before going to bed.