Coconut oil (also called copra) is an oil that is extracted from the kernel (the white meat inside a coconut) of ripe coconuts. The scientific name of the coconut palm is Cocos nucifera. The coconuts are harvested from the coconut palm tree 10 to 12 months after the flower has been pollinated. It has numerous applications in the food, health, and beauty industries. The oil is contains about 90% saturated fat, 6% mono unsaturated fat, and 3% poly unsaturated fat. It is edible, just like olive oil or almond oil. Unlike other unsaturated and saturated fats, it is made up of mostly medium-chain fatty acids (also called MCFAs). It is the new darling of the Internet generation, being hailed as a miracle oil. As its popularity grows, so do all the questions about it. For instance, how is it produced, what are the different types, what are its uses, how it should be stored, what are its benefits, what do the terms on the labels mean, and which ones should you buy?
We hope this article helps you to:
Understand the benefits and uses of this fantastic oil
Feel confident about consuming it
Decipher the wording used on the product labels
Understand the different production methods
Answer all your questions about it
12 benefits of coconut oil:
It has many reported benefits, from supporting normal body functions to maintaining healthy systems*
High in lauric acid, used in many medicinal products
Supports a normal metabolism*
Helps maintain normal blood glucose levels*
Supports a healthy heart*
Supports a healthy immune system*
Maintains normal digestion and nutrient absorption*
Hydrates the skin, improves skin tone and softness*
Reduces occasional and infrequent itching due to dry skin conditions*
Moisturizes hair and supports a healthy scalp*
High in antioxidants*
It is a source of quick energy, with a lower glucose spike than sugar*.