Touted as one of the ‘healthiest oils in the world’, the virgin coconut oil has gained a lot of popularity compared to other oils, including coconut oil. It is extracted from coconuts without the involvement of heat and is very different from coconut oil in several ways. The difference is not only in the source, but also the mode of extraction and its associated benefits.
Difference between regular coconut oil and virgin coconut oil
Extraction differences
Regular coconut oil is extracted using the process of cold compression also known as cold milling of Copra (dried coconut kernels) which has about 6% moisture content. Virgin coconut oil is extracted from coconut milk that has been taken from fresh coconuts. Care is taken that kernels and coconut milk are not subjected to any heat or sunlight throughout the process. No chemical refining, bleaching or deodorizing is performed and VCO can be consumed in all its naturalness which requires no further processing. It is colourless and has the refreshing scent of fresh coconuts.
Appearance
Even though virgin coconut oil looks a little different from regular coconut oil, the difference is usually not noticed by merely looking. Regular coconut oil is refined in nature and usually consists of fatty acids. The colour depends on the processing.
Purity
The source and extraction process play a significant role in how virgin coconut oil tastes and smells. The great taste and smell come from the fact that they are derived from fresh coconuts with minimal heat and sunlight. Also, it is not refined, which leads to the preservation of the natural goodness and the high percentage of vitamin E and minerals. All these nutrients are lacking in regular coconut oil which goes through a number of processes like heating, filtration, refining and bleaching, that render it odourless and colourless.
Composition
Greater amounts of polyphenols, vitamins and minerals are present in virgin coconut oil than regular coconut oil which contribute to the taste, fragrance and goodness. It is also richer in good cholesterol and medium-chain fatty acids with negligible to no trans fatty acids.
Benefits
- Laurene Boateng et al. led a 2016 review study that states that Virgin coconut oil is rich in medium chain fatty acids (MCTs), for instance lauric acid (48%-53%); they are easily absorbed by the intestine and can be used to generate energy. MCTs do not partake in the transport or biosynthesis of cholesterol. Improved metabolism, digestibility and immunity are also noticed.
- According to a research study that was implemented on 116 coronary artery disease patients, a virgin coconut oil-rich diet resulted in increased good cholesterol levels (HDL cholesterol) and decreased bad cholesterol levels (LDL cholesterol).
- Compared to longer chain fats, medium-chain triglycerides can increase the number of calories you burn. Consuming 15-30 grams of MCTs per day resulted in an increase of energy expenditure by 5% in a 24- hour frame to about 120 calories per day.
- Fatty acids in coconut oil contain about 50% 12-carbon lauric acid; digested lauric acid creates a substance known as monolaurin which together with lauric acid can eliminate deleterious pathogens like viruses, bacteria and fungi. They have been successful in killing dangerous bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and yeast Candida albicans which is the primary source of yeast infections in human.
- According to a recent research by Dr. De la Rubia Orti JE et al., coconut oil has been found to improve cognitive abilities in Alzheimer’s patients, particularly in language and orientation areas. Another published study by Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences states that ketones found in MCTs in coconut oil are closely associated with improving memory.
- A study by Journal of Cosmetic Science claims that virgin coconut oil is great for hair; it reduces protein loss which can lead to unhealthy hair. Its low molecular weight helps it penetrate hair shaft and stop hair damage. It also acts as a great conditioner which promotes re-growth of damaged hair by providing essential proteins that are instrumental in nourishing and healing. Another study by Ruetsch SB et al., TRI/Princeton has shown that hair damaged by hygral fatigue can be better protected by coconut oil.
- Coconut oil has been found to be rich in anti-ageing, antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that are good for your skin.
- Virgin coconut oil improves calcium absorption and anti-microbial properties that prevent gum disease, tooth decay and contributes to overall development of strong teeth. Age-old tradition of oil pulling with coconut oil is still in use to remove mouth bacteria and help in healing periodontal disease.
- Local application of virgin coconut oil can lessen the severity of eczema and psoriasis conditions. In a research study by Vermen M, Verallo-Rowell M.D and Agero, AL, pure cold-pressed, non-GMO and organic coconut oil has been proved to be a superior massage oil, suitable for all skin types.
- Using coconut oil can also protect the skin against detrimental effects of UV rays.
QNET Nutriplus Virgin Coconut Oil
QNET Nutriplus Virgin Coconut Oil has been naturally extracted from organically grown coconuts from Kerala and is cold pressed, unrefined and pure. Fragrant with a mild natural aroma, it is loaded with antioxidant properties, Medium Chain Fatty Acids (MCFA), Lauric acid and Capric acid.
Benefits –
- VCO can be used in baking and frying and can be a healthy replacement for other cooking oils.
- It is a great oil for damaged and unhealthy hair. It can be used both as a conditioner and a hair mask.
- VCO is antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral in nature and can be used as a natural skin conditioner.
- The presence of MCT (medium chain triglyceride), antioxidants, vitamins and minerals in VCO leads to general health improvement, increased metabolic rate and better digestion.
Using Virgin Coconut Oil significantly helps you with your health. Its many beneficial properties prove to be useful in many ways. Bring in the change you desire by incorporating Virgin Coconut Oil in your life today!
