The Benefits of Cold Pressed Oil & Reasons Why You Should Go for It
Cold pressed oils have earned popularity over the last few decades as healthier, more natural alternatives to regular oils. With increasing awareness on the need for pure and unrefined products, many people include these oils into their cooking and skincare and wellness routines. But what is cold pressed oil, and why should you switch to it? Let’s get to know some of the benefits and what makes this oil extraction method special.
What is Cold Pressed Oil?
In the simplest explanation, cold pressed oil is obtained from a traditional extraction method where seeds or nuts are crushed to extract oil by mechanical means without the use of heat or other chemicals. In this process, the raw material is cold-pressed to squeeze out the oil via a wooden or steel press, thereby retaining all the flavor, aroma, and health benefits that oil can offer. Unlike refined oils, cold pressed oils do not get hot removed, and hence, the properties and nutrition value of the same cannot be taken away from them.
1. Retains Nutrients and Natural Goodness
One of the largest benefits of cold pressed oils is that they preserve most of the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants naturally present in it. Specifically, they contain omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids that are beneficial for health conditions of the heart, inflammation, and general well-being. Oils like olive oil, coconut oil, and mustard oil are packed with them to fulfill the nutritional needs of your body.
2. Chemical-Free and Health Friendly
Many commercial oils are refined using a combination of chemical processes and high heat, which strips oils of naturally occurring compounds or introduces chemical residues. On the other hand, cold pressed oils are 100% natural and, therefore, free of additives, preservatives, and other chemical agents. Hence they come out to be healthy for the human body.
- Cooking Advantages and Flavoring
The cold pressed oils retain their natural flavor and aroma, get the flavors infused into your food in ways that refined oils cannot do. Cold pressed oils will add a richer, more authentic taste to stir-fries when sesame oil is called for; to baking when coconut oil is the chosen oil; and to salad dressings when sunflower oil is used. The temperature of the oil also tends to be easier to reach, being lower than that of the refined oils: they usually cause smoke below 325F or so. Such oils, which include mustard and avocado oils, can be utilized at higher cooking temperatures.
- Proper for Skin and Hair Care
Not just cooking oils, these oils do wonders for skin and hair care. These oils include argan oil, coconut oil, and almond oil, among many others, and can readily be found in your beauty products. They work to hydrate, condition, and protect your skin from damage and promote healthy, shining hair. Owed to their antioxidant content, the oils protect against free radicals that may lead to earlier aging and so many other skin issues. Use cold pressed oils in your beauty regime and you will benefit from an array of natural healing and indulgent moisturizing effects.
- Nature-friendly and Ecologically Sustainable
Switching completely to cold pressed oils is also a step toward sustainability. Cold pressing is an eco-friendly process, using neither nasty chemicals nor energy-expending refining procedures, and many cold pressed oils are made from organic or sustainably sourced ingredients, contributing to supporting eco-conscious farming practices. When you switch to cold pressed oils, you aren’t only being healthy but also helping save the planet.
Final thoughts
Making cold pressed oils an integral part of your meals and everyday regimen can greatly influence your health, beauty, and overall wellness. Cold pressed oils are a much better option when compared to refined oils, primarily because they are naturally extracted, loaded with nutrients, and can be widely used. Whether cooking or moisturizing, or in your beauty routine, they have wonderful benefits that refined oils cannot offer.
So, why not switch today and see for yourself? Your body and skin will shower their blessings and respect on you, and so will the environment!