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I’m sure you’ve heard about coconut oil numerous times and its many culinary, personal-care, and nutritional uses. You might’ve heard of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) and its other types, but do you know why it’s called virgin? What makes it distinct from the other kinds of coconut oil? How should it be used? Read on to know more about virgin coconut oil.

Virgin coconut oil is considered “virgin” because of the process it went through.

Compared to refined coconut oils, the production process of VCO preserves the raw materials from coconut as much as possible by not exposing it to too much heat, almost nil. It may be exposed to sunlight, but not too much heat as refined coconut oils go through.

Free Opened Coconut on Sands Stock Photo

Virgin Coconut Oil Production

There are two ways manufacturers use to produce virgin coconut oil.

  1. Virgin coconut oil comes from expeller-pressing from dried coconut. This method is the common way of producing virgin coconut oil since it’s more efficient for mass production. This production method starts with the coconut meat being dried. It’s done at a fixed temperature or lightly heated to remove its moisture and prevent the rancidity of the oil.
  2. The other way to produce coconut oil is through a process called ‘wet-milling.’ This method involves extracting from fresh coconut meat without any drying process. The coconut milk is pressed from the fresh coconut meat then the oil will be separated from the water. Separation of oil and water may be through fermentation, boiling, refrigeration, enzymes, and mechanical centrifuge.

Virgin Coconut Oil Composition

Since virgin coconut oil came from fresh coconut meat and didn’t undergo intense heat, its flavor and scent will undergo preservation. Virgin coconut oil has retained all the nutrients in coconut oil, including a high vitamin E and minerals content.

Virgin coconut oil contains naturally occurring fatty acids and compounds that have been studied for their moisturizing and antioxidant properties. Its composition may differ from refined coconut oil depending on how the oils are processed.

Benefits of Virgin Coconut Oil

  • VCO is commonly used in skincare for its moisturizing properties. It may help moisturize and soften dry skin.
  • VCO contains fatty acids that the body can use as a source of energy. Its fatty-acid composition has also been studied in relation to energy metabolism.
  • VCO has been studied in relation to cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health. However, because coconut oil is high in saturated fat, it should not be considered a treatment for high cholesterol.
  • • VCO and its fatty acids have been studied in relation to brain health and cognitive function, although more research is needed to establish specific benefits.
  • • VCO is sometimes used for oil pulling, a traditional oral-care practice. Coconut oil has been studied in relation to oral hygiene, but oil pulling should not replace regular brushing, flossing, or professional dental care.
  • • Components of VCO, including lauric acid, have been studied for antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, particularly in laboratory settings. However, consuming VCO has not been established as a way to prevent or treat infections or diseases.
  • • VCO has been studied in relation to metabolism, blood sugar, and cardiovascular health. However, current evidence does not establish VCO as a treatment for blood sugar problems or as a way to prevent heart disease.

How to Use Virgin Coconut Oil

Here are the suggested virgin coconut oil intakes in the following ages:

  • For 2-6 years old: 1 teaspoon in the morning and night
  • For 7-12 years old: 2 teaspoons morning and night
  • For adults: 2-3 tablespoons daily.

These amounts should not be considered established medical or nutritional recommendations. Individual dietary needs can vary, particularly for children, and coconut oil is high in saturated fat. Parents or caregivers should consult an appropriate healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes for a child.

There’s no such this as “extra virgin coconut oil.” It’s just virgin coconut oil. Some manufacturers just add the word “extra” to lure customers. They came from the same process.

What you should look for in choosing the best virgin coconut oil is its organic. As much as possible, ensure it’s cold-pressed, processed without hexane, and doesn’t go through deodorizing or bleaching.