When it comes to oils and what they can be used for things can get confusing. Many oils have different health benefits that can be received from either cooking with the oil, or applying it to your hair and skin. Here at Earth Markets we have an abundance of oils that can be used for a variety of things. Here are a few of our oil time favourites.
Coconut Oil is a pretty hot topic these days, and for good reason. The fats that come from coconut oil converts more easily to energy than other fat, helping to boost metabolism, curbing appetite, and aiding weight loss. But, it can also be used on your hair and skin as it makes a great moisturiser! Coconut oil has a moderate heat roasting level when used in cooking, which makes it great for sautéing and roasting. When at room temperature, it is solid which also makes it perfect for baked goods. You can use it to add delicious flavor when cooking or add it to your morning coffee for an energy boost and flavor hit!
Grapes give us wine and they also give us Grapeseed Oil. This amazing oil is known for preventing high blood pressure, delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, boosting the immune system, cancer prevention, improving cholesterol, reducing swelling and speeding up wound heeling. Grapeseed oil is used most commonly in food and for cosmetic purposes. Culinary grapeseed oil is used in dressings and sauces and can also be used to fry foods. The beauty benefits include better skin and beautiful hair.
Macadamia Nut Oil is another oil with heaps of benefits. It improves heart health and the digestive process, boosts energy levels and bone health, its protects eye health, prevents chronic diseases, optimises immune system and helps those suffering from Celiac disease. Macadamia nut oil has a higher smoke point than other vegetable oils meaning you are less likely to burn off the beneficial fats when cooking. It has a smooth buttery flavour and is great for roasting, baking and deep frying, but is just as good when used as a salad dressing or marinade, go nuts!
We can’t forget to mention olive oil, one of the most popular and healthy oil choices! The health benefits are abundant. It has been known reduce cardiovascular risk, has a protective role on breast, colon, lung, ovarian and skin cancer development, and has additional benefits on blood pressure, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis and immune function.
There are 4 types of olive oil: extra virgin, virgin, pure olive oil, light and extra light. Extra virgin olive oil is the premium grade oil as they are believed to offer the greatest health benefits as they retain the majority of the olive fruits nutrients. Pure olive oil is non-virgin, commercial grade oil and light and extra light olive oils are produced from the last pressing of olives and are of a lower quality. Despite what many people say, olive oil is excellent to cook with. It has a moderately high smoke point which makes it totally safe choice to cook with, just be careful that you don’t heat it too much as it will have an adverse reaction on the flavour. Olive oil isn’t just great for cooking, it’s also great a for a number of beauty related things such as hair conditioner, acne treatment, shaving cream and ear cleaner! Oh, olive you!
The possibilities with all these oils are endless and a great way to start is to visit your local Earth Markets store and check out all the oils we have in stock. Whether you’re after a healthier option to cook or bake with, or a natural oil for your hair and skin, we’ve oil got something for you!