Coconut Oil Free Essays

Coconut oil is a popular nutritional oil derived from the flesh of matured coconuts. Coconuts have long been a primary source of food throughout the tropics and their many industrial and cosmetic applications have made them a valuable commodity. Coconut oil is heat stable, making it suitable for cooking at high temperatures, it’s slow to oxidize, resists rancidity and has a shelf life of approximately two years or more (virgin coco creme created through a wet-milling process has an indefinite shelf life). We will write a custom essay sample on Coconut Oil or any similar topic only for you Order Now Coconut oil’s composition Coconuts have a variety of health benefits due to their fibre and nutritional content, but it’s the oil that makes them a remarkable source of food and medicine. Coconut oil has definitely earned its reputation as the healthiest oil in the world despite the fact that its high saturated fat content was once falsely claimed to be unhealthy. What makes coconut oil different? Oils and fats are composed of molecules known as fatty acids. They are classified either according to saturation or based on molecular length and size of the carbon chain within each fatty acid. Monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats are an example of the first class. The second classification is based on molecular size or length of the fatty acid’s carbon chain. Long chains of carbon atoms consist of each fatty acid with an attached hydrogen atom. There are short chain fatty acids known as SCFA, medium chain fatty acids (MCFA) such as coconut oil and long chain fatty acids (LCFA). Whether unsaturated or saturated, the majority of fats and oils in our diet are composed of long chain fatty acids. In fact, a majority of the fatty acids commonly consumed are LCFA. Coconut oil is predominantly medium-chain fatty acid (MCFA) and the effects of the MCFA in coconut oil are distinctly different from the LCFA found in other foods. In fact, the saturated and unsaturated fat in milk, eggs, meat and even in plants and most vegetable oils are made of LCFA. Why is this relevant? It’s important because our bodies respond and metabolize each fatty acid differently. The MCFA found in coconut oil makes it special because these fatty acids don’t have a negative effect on cholesterol. In fact, they’re known to lower the risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis. There are only few dietary sources of MCFA, and one of the best sources by far is coconut oil. The liver and gall bladder don’t need to digest and emulsify MCFA, resulting in instant energy, increased metabolic rate and subsequently greater heat production and increased circulation. Anyone with an impaired fat digestion or removed gallbladder will benefit from coconut oil as this oil is  easily digested. Lauric acid Many of coconut oil’s health benefits are attributed to its lauric acid. Lauric acid in the body is converted into monolaurin, a compound that’s highly toxic to viruses, bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms because of its ability to disrupt their lipid membranes and virtually destroy them. Monolaurin is effective for treating candida albicans, fungal infections and athlete’s foot. It also targets bacterial infections and viruses like measles, influenza, hepatitis C and even HIV—researchers from the Philippines are studying the effectiveness of lauric acid against HIV/AIDS due to its strong antiviral properties. Moreover, lauric acid is non-toxic, making it a better alternative to modern drugs prescribed for viruses, fungal and bacterial infections. Without lauric acid, monolaurin cannot be produced by the body. Breast milk is the only other source of lauric acid, which could explain the lower incidence of infections among breast-fed infants. Regular consumption of coconut oil has also been found to boost immunity and reduce the frequency of sickness. The health benefits of coconut oil Hair care  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ The unique fatty acids in coconut oil have a small molecular structure and pass freely into the hair’s cell membrane, allowing the oil to penetrate the hair’s shaft, which brings out the deep conditioning from within as compared to other conditioners that work from the outside in. Massaging the oil into the scalp can offer relief from dandruff. Dandruff is caused by dry skin or an internal fungal condition that reached the scalp. With regular use, coconut oil can kill the fungus and eliminate dandruff issues. For  deep hair conditioning, a teaspoon or two on damp hair left for as long as possible can give a nice shine. Leave it on overnight and see startling results. Skin care  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Coconut oil is an excellent skin conditioner that contains medium-chain triglycerides, naturally occurring fats which deeply penetrate, moisturize and act as a protective barrier against environmental and free radical damage. The oil also provides sun protection by screening 20 per cent of ultraviolet exposure. Coconut oil is rich in antioxidants and the natural microbial and antibacterial agents caphrylic and capric acids. Its ability to smooth the skin while infusing with antioxidants make it a perfect anti-aging moisturizer. Moreover, it contains vitamin E, another antioxidant popular for hastening the recovery of skin abrasions, burns and other trauma. Weight loss  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Medium-chain fatty acids found in coconut oil can speed up metabolism faster than long-chain fatty acids because they are easily digested and converted into energy. In fact, a  study reported  medium-chain fatty acids to be three times more effective in raising metabolism than long-chain fatty acids, leading researchers to conclude that effective weight loss can be achieved by replacing long-chain fatty acids with medium-chain fatty acids. Natural remedy for pneumonia  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ The American College of Chest Physicians found that coconut oil offers pneumonia patients faster and more complete relief from symptoms. This could be a welcome development for many as this means a shortened hospital stay, lower medical expenses and lower exposure for the patient to a hospital environment. Moreover, it’s an  inexpensive addition to traditional antibiotics  and has no known side effects. Lowers risk of diabetes, heart disease and improves cholesterol levels  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ In a study of 20 to 40-year-old women, half were instructed to take a 30 ml soybean oil supplement while the other half were instructed to take a 30 ml coconut oil supplement while maintaining a moderate exercise routine over a 12-week period. Results showed that although both groups of women had a decrease in body mass index (BMI), only the women who were taking coconut oil showed a notable decrease in waist circumference, significantly lowering the risk of conditions like type II diabetes and heart disease. Furthermore, the study also showed that the subjects who experienced an improvement in their cholesterol profile along with higher HDL levels and higher HDL to LDL ratio were the ones taking coconut oil. Those taking soybean oil did not receive the  same benefits  but reflected a higher total cholesterol as well as higher LDL cholesterol lower, lower HDL cholesterol and a lower HDL to LDL ratio. Assists in bone health and chronic fatigue  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Research has found coconut oil to help prevent osteoporosis because it helps in the nutrient absorption of minerals such as calcium and magnesium – important minerals that fight steoporosis. Moreover, the medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil  produce energy  rather than body fat, thereby improving metabolism and preventing fatigue. The oil has also been shown to destroy organisms in the body that sap its strength and contribute to the condition of fatigue. Alzheimer’s Disease  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Dr. Mary Newport, after fa iling to get treatment for her husband’s dementia, discovered that coconut oil contained natural medium-chain triglyceride (MCT). The same substance was used in a drug trial her husband failed to qualify for. So, she gave her husband 1 tbsp. of coconut oil twice a day for a month and a half and saw him recover almost completely. Other benefits: †¢ Protects against cancer, HIV and other infectious diseases †¢ Kills bacteria and parasites like tapeworm and liver flukes †¢ Eases acid reflux and aids in proper bowel function †¢ Lowers incidence of hemorrhoids †¢ Heals and relieves intestinal problems †¢ Soothes earaches †¢ Deals with symptoms connected with prostate enlargement †¢ Strengthens the liver and protects against degeneration Reduces incidence of epileptic seizures †¢ Reduces joint and muscle inflammation †¢ Eases neuropathies and itching from diabetes. How much oil should be taken? According to researchers, an adult should consume around 3 1/2 tbsp. of coconut oil daily: an amount equal to the MCFA a nursing infant would receive in one day. The benefits of coconut oil are derived from the nutritional value of medium-chain fatty acid s (MCFA’s), and the best comparison in nature as to the percentage of MCFA consumed in a diet is in human breast milk. For those who aren’t used to having coconut oil in their diet, it’s best to start out with a smaller amount and see how the body reacts before following the recommended amount. Does coconut oil have any adverse side effects? Coconut oil has no known side effects. However, if you’re used to a low-fat diet, a common adverse reaction would be diarrhea. It’s probably not advisable to start with a large amount right away. Spreading the recommended amount over the course of one day and building up to a larger dose can help to avoid unwanted effects. In coconut-producing countries, it’s considered beneficial for pregnant and lactating women to enjoy coconut oil; Westerners used to a low-fat diet, however, are cautioned not to experiment with coconut oil while pregnant if the body is not used to it. If you’ve been consuming coconut oil regularly with no adverse reactions, there’s no reason to discontinue consumption. Read more at  http://www. themindfulword. org/2012/coconut-oil-health-benefits/#XF4RhFfeAcAAu3hx. 99 How to cite Coconut Oil, Papers Coconut Oil Free Essays Coconut Oil and Calamansi Peelings As Agent for Hair Oil Chapter I. Introduction A. Background Of the Study The hair is our crowning glory that holds true for most people since it is one of the things that leave a lasting impression when we first meet someone. We will write a custom essay sample on Coconut Oil or any similar topic only for you Order Now The way that we carry our hair, our haircut, our hairstyle and even hair texture are all visible traits that can greatly affect the way that other people look at you. This is the reason why we need to take extra care of our hair. Our hair and scalp, just like our skin needs special care and attention. One way of caring our hair is by using hair oil. This research is about the possibility of oil extracted from calamansi peeling as preservative for hair oil. Hair oil is commonly used by people who have dry hair especially girls. Hair oil moisturizes the scalp, it provides hair into the sebacious glands and promotes hair growth. The calamansi peelings we need in this study is abundant in thePhilippines. We can directly find them in our kitchen, etc. Calamansi peeilings contain a preservativecalled Pectin that is generally used in preserving jams and jellies. In this study, we commonly use the extract of calamansi peelings which has pectin to preserve the fragrance of the coconut oil and which at the same time gives an additional fragrance to the oil. This study employs the importance of this experiment to our economy in the country. B. Statement of the Problem This study will determine the feasibility of the Oil Extracted from Calamansi Peelings as preservative for Hair oil. In so doing, the characteristics will be compared to commercial hair oil. Most specifically, the researcher aims to: 1. Compare the product to commercial preparations in terms of fragrance C. Hypothesis There is no significant difference between the product and commercial hair oil. D. Significance of the Study The increasingly high prices of goods and cosmetics nowadays are the main problems of the people concerned. One of the greatly needed cosmetic is hair oil which is very important to those people who have dry hair. Since we are aiming to minimize our expenses, we can make use of calamansi peelings that are found in our kitchen. We can make use of the fragrant oil present in the calamansi peelings by extracting it. This research study is worth making. And it can contribute a lot to our community. It can give people hair oil that is affordable and it can help the country minimize the economic problems. E. Scope and Limitations This study focused on the use of â€Å"oil extracted from calamansi peelings as preservative for hair oil†. F. Definition of terms Calamansi Peeling – strippled rind that sorrounds the pulp. Hair Oil – helps moisturize the scalp, provides hair nutrients to the sebscious glands and promotes hair growth. Pectin – a solluble gelatinous polysaccharide present in ripe fruit,used as a settling agent for jams and jellies. G. Methodology Materials: – grated coconut – calamnsi peelings – water – bowl – pot/frying pan – bottle Procedures: Preparation of the Coconut Oil Put the grated coconut in a bowl and put water in it. Squeeze the grated coconut with water to produce coconut milk. Heat the coconut milk until all the water is dried up and that left the coconut oil. The Making of the Hair Oil Agent Put the calamansi peelings in the pot with the coconut oil and wait for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes,get the calamansi peelings and put the product in a bottle/container. Cool it first before applying it to the hair. Just gently apply it to your hair. Testing of the Hair Oil Agent The Hair Oil Agent was tested first by the researcher. It was applied gently to the hair and has effectiveness in it. The Hair Oil was tested in a survey method H. Review of Related Literature Kalamansi is widely cultivated in the Philippines. This species is a native of the Philippines and does not occur naturally outside of the archipelago. This plant is smooth, somewhat spiny tree, growing from 3 to5 meters in height. The leaflets are elliptic to oblong-elliptic, 4 to 8 centimeters long. The petioles are very narrowly or scarcely winged, and about 1 centimeters long. The flowers are axillary, solitary, rarely in pairs, white, and short-stalked. The fruit is yellow when ripe, nearly spherical, 2 to 3. 5 centimeters in diameter, 6-7 celled, and thin-skinned. The skin or peel of kalamansi is green to yellowish green or yellow. The peel adheres loosely to the flesh, which contains a few seeds and is light orange in color. It is fairly sour and very much used as a seasoning and for making ? ade?. The whole fruit is made into marmalade. The juice is also concentrated with syrup. The fruit is crushed with gogo and used for cleansing the hair. Hair Oil is used to moisturize dry hair. It protects the hair from the sun’s rays. It also makes the hair shiny and smooth. Hair Oil comes mostly from coconut milk. Coconut milk is wonderful to use as a hair conditioner. Beauticians who are familiar with coconut swear by it. It softens the hair and conditions the scalp. Using the coconut oil as a pre-wash conditioner can rid a person of dandruff better than a medicated shampoo. Coconut oil, a natural ingredient in the highest sense of the word, has always been recognized for its quality of strengthening the structure of damaged, devitalized hair. Coconut milk lubricates and softens the hair shaft through the action of minerals such as magnesium, potassium, calcium, and iron. Sources: http://www. coconut-milk-uk. com/Coconut-Hair-Oil. html Http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/calamansi  peelings http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/hair  oil Chapter II Results and Discussion This page describes the result of the investigation conducted on the â€Å"Coconut Oil and Calamansi Peelings as Agent for hair Oil† through its fragrance when applied to the hair. Legend: 1-excellent 2-good 3-bad Trial 1 Table 1 Person |Product |Commercial | |1 |2 |3 | |2 |2 |3 | |3 |3 |2 | |4 |2 |2 | |5 |3 |3 | |6 |2 |2 | |7 |2 |3 | |8 |3 |3 | |9 |2 |3 | |10 |2 |2 | Trial2 Table 2 Person |Product |Commercial | |1 |2 |2 | |2 |2 |3 | |3 |2 |3 | |4 |2 |3 | |5 |3 |2 | |6 |2 |2 | |7 |2 |3 | |8 |2 |3 | |9 |2 |3 | |10 |2 |3 | Discussion: Table I and II showed the application of the Hair oil through fragrance. Ten different people tested the Hair Oil in each tria l. rial 1 showed effectiveness of the product. From the results showed above, the product can be a good substitute for the commercial ones. SUMMARY The study was conducted to determine the Feasibility of Coconut Oil and Calamansi Peelings as Agent for Hair Oil. The Calamansi Peelings found inside the kitchen were used in the study. ten different people tested the potency of the Homemade Hair Oil and was able to depict effectivity of the product. CONCLUSION As the resul;t of the analysis showed in tables 1 and 2, the researcher would say that there is a significant difference between the product and the commercial preparations in terms of fragrance. RECOMMENDATION The researcher recommends to the next researcher to conduct more trials of this product to prove its effectiveness. References www. google. com www. yahoo. com www. wikipedia. com www. encarta. com ABSTRACT This study,Coconut Oil and Calamansi Peelings as Agent for Hair Oil, aims to evaluate and compare its quality in terms of fragrance to the commercial preparations. Experiments and a survey were done. A survey was done to compare the fragrance of the product to the commercial ones. Result of the study showed that Coconut Oil and Calamansi Peelings can be used as agent for hair oil because it successfully showed effectiveness. How to cite Coconut Oil, Essay examples