Oil is one of the essential ingredients in our daily cooking, and we all use it in our kitchens. We use various types of oil in our cooking, such as vegetable oil, sunflower oil, mustard oil, etc. But, have you ever wondered what kind of oil is healthy for us? There are various methods of oil extraction, but which one is the best? Wood pressed oil, also known as cold-pressed oil, is a traditional method of extracting oil from seeds or nuts. In this blog, we will explore the science behind wood pressed oil and how it is better for your health.
What is Wood Pressed Oil?
Wood-pressed oil, also known as cold-pressed oil, is extracted from the seeds or nuts of various plants using wooden or stone presses. The seeds or nuts are first roasted, and then they are crushed in the wooden or stone press. The oil extracted through this process is pure and unrefined, which means it retains all its natural nutrients.
The Process
The process of making wood pressed oil involves using a wooden press or a mara chekku, which crushes the seeds or nuts to extract the oil. The wooden press applies pressure without heating the seeds or nuts, preserving the natural nutrients and flavor of the oil. The temperature of the oil during the extraction process does not exceed 40 degrees Celsius, which is important as heat can alter the chemical composition of the oil and destroy its nutritional value.
Comparison of Wood Pressed Oil with Other Extraction Methods:
- Cold Pressed Oil vs. Refined Oil:
The primary difference between cold-pressed oil and refined oil is that refined oil goes through several processes to remove impurities, whereas cold-pressed oil is unrefined and retains all its natural nutrients. Refined oil is also treated with chemicals, which may be harmful to our health.
- Cold Pressed Oil vs. Hot Pressed Oil:
Hot-pressed oil is extracted by heating the seeds or nuts at a high temperature and then pressing them to extract oil. This process destroys many of the natural nutrients in the oil, which makes it less healthy than cold-pressed oil.
- Cold Pressed Oil vs. Solvent Extracted Oil:
Solvent-extracted oil is extracted by using chemical solvents such as hexane, which may leave behind harmful residue in the oil. Cold-pressed oil, on the other hand, is extracted without the use of any chemicals, making it a healthier option.
Benefits of Wood Pressed Oil:
- Rich in Nutrients:
Wood pressed oil is unrefined, which means it retains all its natural nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Studies have shown that wood pressed oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for our health.
- Lowers Cholesterol:
Wood pressed oil helps in lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) levels in the body, which reduces the risk of heart disease. A study conducted in India showed that using wood pressed oil for cooking reduced the levels of LDL cholesterol in the body.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Wood pressed oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing inflammation in the body. Inflammation is linked to various diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease.
- Boosts Immunity:
Wood pressed oil contains natural antioxidants, which boost our immune system and help in fighting various diseases. A study conducted in India showed that wood pressed oil has a higher antioxidant capacity than refined oil.
Research Studies Supporting the Benefits of Wood Pressed Oil:
- A study conducted in India showed that wood pressed oil has a higher antioxidant capacity than refined oil. The study also showed that wood pressed oil has anti-inflammatory properties.
- A study conducted in India showed that using wood pressed oil for cooking reduced the levels of LDL cholesterol in the body.
- A study conducted in Japan showed that wood pressed sesame oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used as a natural remedy for arthritis.
- A study conducted in Australia showed that wood pressed macadamia oil has a higher content of monounsaturated fatty acids and natural antioxidants than refined oil.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, wood-pressed oil is a healthier option compared to other extraction methods. It retains all its natural nutrients and is free from harmful chemicals. Wood-pressed oil is also beneficial for our health, as it helps in lowering cholesterol and boosting our immunity. Therefore, it is recommended that you switch to wood-pressed oil for a healthier lifestyle. The extraction method used to produce oil can significantly impact its quality, flavor, and nutritional value. While mechanical and solvent extraction methods are faster and more efficient, they can harm the oil’s quality by causing the loss of essential nutrients and antioxidants. On the other hand, wood-pressed oil is a traditional and slow method that ensures the oil retains its essential nutrients and antioxidants, making it a healthier option. However, this method requires more effort and leads to a lower yield of oil. Ultimately, the choice between extraction methods depends on personal preference and the specific properties of the oil required for each use.
