Coconut oil is a staple in many house many households used for cooking, beauty and health remedies. However, coconut oil is a popular product in Nigeria and demand for it is rising is due to many various health benefits.
Coconut oil is beneficial for both babies and mature individuals due to its unique nutritional and therapeutic properties.
Here are some numerous importance and benefits of coconut oil;
Culinary uses: coconut oil is a healthy alternative for cooking and baking due to its high smoke point and mild flavour.
Health benefits: it contains medium -chain triglycerides (mcts) which anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antifungal properties, supporting immune function and overall wellbeing, coconut oil has been show to reduce bad breath and gum inflammation, it has been used to alleviate symptoms of various health conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and digestive issues and so many other benefits and uses.
Overall, coconut oil is a versatile and valuable resource with a wide range of applications, benefits, and importance in various aspects of our lives.
But did you know you can make it right in your own home? That is why this article is out together to explain step-by-step guide on how to make homemade coconut oil.
“Making coconut at home is easier than you think,” says Lagos-based entrepreneur, Mrs. Ogundana.
With just few simple tools and fresh coconuts, you can have pure, cold pressed oil in no time.
The tools needed include; coconut grater or food processor, cheesecloth or a clean cotton cloth, large pot or saucepan, oil extractor or manual press (optional) and fresh coconuts.
Grate the coconut meat using a coconut grater or food processor. You can also use a blender to shred the coconut into fine pieces.
Spread the grated coconut on a baking sheet and dry it in the sun or using a low temperature oven (150°c) for 2-3 hours.
This step is very important to remove excess moisture.place the dried coconut in a large pot or saucepan and add a small amounts of water.
Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally until the oil separates from the coconut solids. Strain the oil through cheesecloth or clean cotton into a clean container. Discard the coconut solids and repeat the process until you get the desired amount of oil.
Enjoy your homemade coconut oil.
Use your homemade coconut oil for cooking, hair care, skin care or as a natural remedy.
There are some tips in producing a fine coconut oil. Use a manual press or oil extractor for a more efficient extraction process.
Add a few drops of essential oils like peppermint for a fragrant twist and mix with other oils (like olive oil) for a unique blend.
Making homemade coconut oil is a simple and rewarding process. With fresh coconuts and basic tools, you can create pure, cold pressed oil that is perfect for various uses.
Embrace the journey and start making your own coconut oil that will nourish your body, mind and spirit.
– Temitope Idowu
A 300level mass communication student of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Kogi state.
