Derived from the large, husked seed of the coconut palm, coconut oil serves as ingredient in a spectrum of foods and beauty items, appearing in culinary creations as well as soap and cosmetics. As the Coconut Research Center explains, coconut oil is particularly revered in Asian and Pacific regions, where it is used in traditional medical systems as a healing agent. Expeller-pressed coconut oil is a type of odorless, food-grade oil used in various ways.
Production
Expeller-pressed coconut oil is made with a screw-like machine that squeezes oil from fresh coconut meat. By using high pressure and friction to force coconut flesh through a caged barrel, expeller machines can extract up to 75 percent of the natural oil in coconuts. In some cases, coconut oil producers use chemical solvents to separate the remaining oil from coconut meat. Unlike cold-pressed oils, expeller-pressed coconut oil faces high temperatures during the extraction process.
Features
Like other types of coconut oil, expeller-pressed coconut oil has a melting point of 76 degrees Fahrenheit, according to Tropical Traditions; below this temperature. the oil is solid. In contrast to fragrant virgin coconut oils, expeller-pressed coconut oil has no odor or flavor. Its nutritional composition is high in medium-chain fatty acids, including lauric acid. Because the expelling process is less expensive than cold-pressing methods, expeller-pressed oil tends to bear a lower price tag than other types of coconut oil. In addition, some forms of expeller-pressed coconut oil may be certified organic, indicating the oil is made from coconuts that haven't been exposed to synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
Uses
Because expeller-pressed coconut oil has no flavor or aroma, it can serve as a cooking oil or ingredient for dishes that don't require a strong coconut taste. Outside of the kitchen, you can use expeller-pressed coconut oil as a hair tonic, a hair-styling aid, an ingredient in body lotions, a skin moisturizer and an exfoliater, according to Plant Cultures. In addition, expeller-pressed coconut oil can serve as an ingredient in detergents and soaps.
Benefits
As Wilderness Family Naturals explains, coconut oils---including expeller-pressed varieties---are stable under high temperatures, making them capable of withstanding high-heat cooking methods such as frying without oxidizing or producing trans-fatty acids. When used topically, Plant Cultures notes, coconut oil can moisturize and soften the hair and skin. Coconut oil may also offer potential benefits for boosting immune function, enhancing physical performance, combating yeast and parasites, supporting thyroid function and protecting against some forms of chronic disease, according to the Coconut Research Center, although many of these claims require further clinical study to confirm.
Considerations
Coconut oil is high in saturated fat, a type of lipid that may harm your cardiovascular health. As MayoClinic.com explains, saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels and consequently raise your risk of heart disease. Consult with your physician before adding significant quantities of expeller-pressed coconut oil to your diet, especially if you already have high cholesterol or are at risk for cardiovascular conditions.
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