Scientific name: Cocos nucifera Oil
Coconut oil is a light yellow or white oil, extracted without solvents by pressing the albumen of the coconut. This pulp comes from a tree called the coconut palm. The coconut palm is grown in tropical and subtropical areas for its fruit, known as coconuts.
Coconut oil is obtained by extracting fresh coconut shavings, which are washed, dehydrated and pressed. Coconut oil obtained by low-temperature dehydration produces an oil of higher quality and richer in active ingredients. The oil yield depends on the extraction method used. It ranges from 20% to 40% oil depending on the process and the type of nut used.
In terms of composition, coconut oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, mainly lauric acid and myristic acid, in particular oleic acid, and palmitoleic acid. This oil is not very sensitive to oxidation.
It is mainly used in soap-making and cosmetics. It is full of powerful antioxidants, namely vitamins A and E. It is recommended for hair care, providing hydration, repair, strength and shine. It is also recommended for dry skin for its regenerating and revitalizing action on dry or damaged skin. It is a good massage oil (for baby's skin) that does not leave a greasy film.
