Top 10 Best Coconut Oils to Buy Online in the Philippines 2020

Coconut oil comes from pressing coconut’s fresh meat or dried coconut meat which is called copra. It is widely used in food and beauty products as well. Coconut oil is rich in heart-healthy fatty acids and it contains no cholesterol. The fatty acids found in coconut oil is said to encourage fat burning and provides energy for both the body and brain. 

Not all coconut oils are the same. When choosing, you will be encountering different types which can be confusing especially if you're not well-versed with what they are. Worry not, we'll lend you our helping hand to choose the best coconut oil.

To make sure that you get the best coconut oil that meets your needs and preferences, lets's decode what the labels mean.

Unlike olive oil with a clear definition between the differences of virgin and extra-virgin, for coconut oils, virgin and extra-virgin labels mean the same thing. Look out for labels that say “unrefined”. Virgin coconut oil is the real deal. It is extracted from the first pressing of fresh coconut meat and no chemicals are added to it.

Virgin coconut oil is basically the essence of the coconut. It packs all the benefits of a coconut, it boasts a strong coconut scent, flavor, and it is good for cooking or baking that requires lower heat. This type usually costs more than refined coconut oil.

This type is made from copra or dried coconut meat. It is pressed to release oil and processed with the use of heat or steam and sometimes with added chemical solvents. The refinement process removes impurities, bleaches, strips away taste, and some nutrients of the coconut as well. Look for labels that say "RBD" which stands for “refined, bleached, and deodorized”.

Compared to its unrefined counterpart, this type has a higher smoking point which makes it great for cooking that requires a higher temperature of oil. 

MCT Oil is a refined version of coconut oil, containing only MCT. MCT stands for medium-chain triglycerides a type of saturated fat that is digested by the body easily. It is linked to weight loss, increase in energy, and it also said to satiate sugar cravings. It is a supplement often added in drinks like smoothies, coffee, and even on dressings and dips. Most people who use MCT oil like to add this to their bulletproof coffee, for the day's worth of energy.

So what's the difference between coconut oil and MCT oil? Coconut oil contains MCT of about 54% and it is best used for cooking and beneficial for other uses such as skincare and beauty. MCT oil, on the other hand, is concentrated with 100% MCT, best used for diet and production of energy.

There are basically three types of oil extraction methods – cold-pressed, expeller-pressed, and centrifuged. When taking your pick, go for cold-pressed coconut oil. 

This ensures temperature control during the whole process extraction process which maintains the nutrients of the coconut oil.

Down below is our picks for the best coconut oils available online. Now that we've decoded the labels, we believe that choosing will just be a breeze. Take a look at the table to easily determine the type of coconut oil.

You might be wondering, why are some coconut oils in liquid form and why do some look like a frozen block? Depending on the environment and the temperature, coconut oil may take a solid or liquid form so don't worry if all of a sudden, your oil solidifies or liquifies. That doesn't mean it's gone bad!

Coconut oil naturally has a long shelf-life that can go up to 2 years but there are chances that it can go rancid if not stored properly. Although it isn't necessary, you may opt to store your coconut oil in the refrigerator. Else, tightly seal your container and store it in a cool, dry place. Oxygen can break down the oil and make it spoil faster! Also keep in mind that constant change in temperature may affect its shelf-life.

Coconut oil is extremely versatile and it is filled with all the goodness and benefits. Many manufacturers suggest taking it as a dietary supplement or applying it directly onto the skin as a moisturizer. The uses of coconut oil does not end there! Here are other ways of using it.

Oil pulling is a traditional Indian folk remedy that claims to improve dental health and hygiene such as teeth whitening and freshening of the breath. It involves using the oil like a mouthwash, swishing it around the mouth. 

What You'll Need:

• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil

• Swish the oil around mouth for at least 15 minutes,
• Spit the oil, you may also opt to rinse mouth with warm water
• Brush teeth

If you don't want to spend on body scrubs, try making your own with an easy and all-natural 2-ingredient recipe that will leave your skin smooth and moisturized.

What You'll Need:

• 1/2 cup of coconut oil
• Handful of coarse salt or sugar 

Procedure:

• Mix coconut oil and salt or sugar together
• Apply on skin and exfoliate away!

Ccoconut oil is a safe, all-natural and effective insect repellent. Some studies show that it is more effective than DEET, an active ingredient found in commercially available synthetic insect repellents. 

What You'll Need:

• Coconut Oil
• Essential oils like tea tree oil, rosemary oil, citronella oil, and lavender oil

Procedure:

• Mix coconut oil and essential oil together
• Apply regularly on skin, especially when outdoors

Can't get enough oils? They sure do pack a punch of uses and benefits. Check our other recommendations of oils that go well for cooking and exclusive for body and hair use. 

Coconut oil, will do wonders for your overall health, wellness, and beauty! The uses for it are endless and it contains numerous benefits. Keep in mind that it is always best to go for the virgin kind so you are able to get all the nutrients it has to offer. Proper storage is also important so that your oil won't get rancid and go to waste. 

Author: Issa Honda