Virgin Coconut Oil – The Benefits Everyone Needs To Know

Coconut is a drupe and not a nut, and the tree belongs to the palm tree family. Coconut oil is edible and comes with an array of benefits. For this reason, virgin coconut oil has gained popularity nowadays.

Types of coconut oil 

Coconut oil can be of two types – refined and virgin.

  • Virgin coconut oil is manufactured with no heat exposure. The cold pressing method extracts the liquid from the coconut flesh. Then, virgin coconut oil is extracted from this liquid and has a milky appearance. Oil manufactured in this manner is 100% pure and unbleached.

Because of its pure nature, virgin coconut oil has a sweet aroma, taste, antioxidants, healthy fatty acids, and vitamins.

  • Refined coconut oil is manufactured using heat. There is a very mild coconut flavor in it because the heat destroys the labial flavoring agents. It is refined, bleached, and then deodorized. Heat and filter clays rob the oil of the aroma and flavors.

Health benefits of virgin coconut oil 

Many vegan food bloggers are growing fond of coconut oil. It is thanks to the scientifically proven health benefits. Here are some of the top health benefits of virgin coconut oil.

  1. Increased fat burning 

Since coconut oil is rich in medium-chain fatty acids (MCTs), it may increase the rate of burning calories. Hence, it is advantageous for weight loss.

  1. Source of energy 

It is a quick source of energy. Since the metabolism of MCTs is different, they get absorbed faster to provide energy.

  1. Antimicrobial properties 

Coconut oil is antimicrobial and antifungal due to MCTs and lauric acid. Lauric acid is 50% of the MCTs.

  1. Decrease hunger 

MCTs may help to reduce hunger. It is related to the breakdown mechanism of MCTs to give ketones. Ketones reduce the appetite of the person, helping to reduce weight.

  1. Good for skin health 

Coconut oil has some great applications in cosmetics. It is like an elixir for dry skin as it boosts the moisture content of the skin naturally. Leaving coconut oil on the hands and feet overnight is a good way to promote healthy skin.

  1. Good for hair 

Coconut oil is great at protecting hair against damage. It helps with the length of the hair and also strengthens it to avoid hair fall.

Coconut oil is a wonderful gift of nature. It is adorned with a lot of health benefits. Not only for physical health, but it also has soothing and repairing effects on the skin and hair.