 About Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO)
VCO is now getting global reputation as the healthiest and versatile
oil in the world. The Philippines is
one of the best sources of
virgin coconut oil and it's popularity in the country is legendary.
Although not an herb, we decided to make an article about VCO
because of the growing interest on the oil and after receiving
several inquiries from our visitors.
Virgin coconut oil and regular coconut oil is rich in Lauric Acid,
an essential fatty acid that is only found in high concentrations in
mother's milk. When taken internally, Lauric Acid turns into a
compound known as Monolaurin. It is this compound that is believed
to fight viral pathogens that protects the body from bacteria,
viruses and infections from parasites. Coconut oil also causes the
metabolic rate to increase, hence helps reduce weight and is safe
and beneficial for diabetics.
For many years, coconut oil has been discredited (specially in the
west) because of it's high saturated fat content. But recent studies
have shown that not all saturated fats are the same. The medium
chain triglycerides of which virgin coconut oil is classified, does
not elevate LDL (the bad cholesterol) in our body compared to other
polyunsaturated vegetable oils such as canola and sunflower oil
which is widely produced in the west.
How Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) is Made
First, the husk and the shell is removed from fresh coconuts, then
the meat of the coconut is shredded -a process called "Wet Milled",
then the meat is "Cold Pressed" to get the coconut milk without any
chemicals. The milk is then fermented in containers for a day or
two. After which, oil is produced. This oil is carefully filtered
and separated from the curd. You now have what is called, virgin
coconut oil. A more modern way of separating the oil from the curd
is through centrifugal force.
The second method of producing virgin coconut oil (VCO) is using
quick dried coconut meat and then processed in the same way. But the
preferred manner by most is still the "Wet Milled" process.
Difference between Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) and Regular (RBD)
Coconut Oil.
RBD stands for Refined, Bleached, and Deodorized. Ordinary coconut
oil usually comes from copra - coconut meat that is dried by either
smoke, kiln or placing under the sun. Because the process itself is
not sanitized, the oil must be further refined. To get more oil from
copra, chemicals are usually used. RBD process is required to make
the oil clear, odor free and tasteless. This procedure also removes
the anti-oxidant and other properties of the oil. Some coconut oils
are also hydrogenated which increases the serum cholesterol levels
and thus is bad for the heart.
While virgin coconut oil, being pure, unadulterated and
unhydrogenated retains it's pleasant coconut taste, smell and all
the health benefits of coconut oil.
Much research still has to be done on the benefits of virgin coconut
oil but preliminary findings and anecdotal reports are very
promising. This may well be the much needed medicine to restore to
health the ailing Philippine coconut industry.
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Benefits of VCO:
• A boost to the body's immune system
• A good source of saturated medium chain triglycerides
• VCO helps regulate blood sugar
• Lowers the viral load of AIDS patients
• Has anti-viral & anti-microbial properties
• Helps hepatitis C, herpes patients
• Helps maintain healthy thyroid function
• Maintain LDL & HDL cholesterol levels
• Heals & nourishes the skin, hair & scalp
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