Coconut oil vs. hemp oil: A set of oils

13. 12. 2023

Nowadays, as more and more people try to live healthier lives, the question often arises, which oil is best for us? Both coconut and hemp oil are highly regarded in the culinary and cosmetic industries, but each has its own unique properties and benefits. Why is hemp oil not suitable for frying? Does hemp oil have more health benefits than coconut oil? And which one has a shorter shelf life? In this article, we'll take a closer look at both of these oils to see which one is really the best.

History and uses of coconut and hemp oil

Both coconut and hemp oil have a rich history and have been used in various cultures around the world.

Coconut oil:

Coconut oil, extracted from the flesh of coconuts, has a history in tropical regions, mainly in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. It has been part of local diets and traditional medicine for thousands of years.

In Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healing system, coconut oil was used for its cooling properties and its ability to strengthen hair and skin. In addition to its healing properties, it was also an important part of religious ceremonies.

Hemp oil:

Hemp oil originated in Central Asia, where hemp was one of the first plants cultivated for textile production. In addition to fabric production, hemp seeds were traditionally pressed into oil for use in cooking and medicine.

In traditional Chinese medicine, hemp oil was valued for its nutritional properties and its ability to regenerate the body.

Properties and composition of coconut and hemp oil

Both coconut and hemp oil have unique compositions that provide them with specific properties and benefits.

Coconut oil

Composition: most of the fats in coconut oil are in the form of medium-chain fatty acids (MCTs). The most well-known MCT in coconut oil is lauric acid, which makes up approximately 50% of all its fats.

Antimicrobial properties: due to its high content of lauric acid, coconut oil has strong antimicrobial properties that help fight bacteria, viruses and yeasts.

Stability at high temperatures: coconut oil has a high smoke point, which means it is resistant to high temperatures and is suitable for frying and cooking.

Energy metabolism support: thanks to its MCT content, coconut oil can quickly provide energy to the body, which is especially useful for athletes or those following a low-carbohydrate diet.

Hemp seed oil is also a good source of energy for people who are dependent on MCTs and who are in a low energy diet.

Composition: hemp oil is rich in essential fatty acids, especially omega-3 and omega-6, in the ideal 1:3 ratio considered optimal for human nutrition.

Vitamin and mineral content: hemp oil contains vitamins, especially vitamin E, and a range of minerals, including magnesium, zinc and iron.

Promoting heart health: thanks to its omega-3 fatty acid content, hemp oil can help lower cholesterol and improve heart health.

Natural anti-inflammatory effects: hemp oil has natural anti-inflammatory effects that can help fight inflammatory diseases and improve overall health.

How to use coconut and hemp oil in the kitchen?

Both coconut and hemp oil have many uses in the kitchen, but each has different properties and uses. Below is an overview of their main benefits in cooking.

Coconut oil: How and why use it in cooking?

Stability at high temperatures: coconut oil has a high smoke point, which means it is resistant to high temperatures. It is therefore ideal for frying, baking or cooking at high temperatures.

Flavour and aroma: it imparts a distinctive coconut flavour and aroma to dishes, making it particularly suitable for tropical and Asian recipes.

Consistency: when baking, coconut oil can replace butter or other fats, giving the final product a smooth consistency.

Health benefits: due to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, it can be beneficial for overall gut health.

Hemp oil: How and why use it in cooking?

Low smoke point: Hemp oil has a low smoke point, which means it is not suitable for frying or cooking at high temperatures. It is best used in cold dishes or in already cooked dishes.

Nutritional value: it is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E. Its regular inclusion in the diet can contribute to the supply of these important nutrients.

Taste: it has a mild nutty flavour, making it an excellent addition to salad dressings, sauces or as a flavouring for ready-made dishes.

How to use coconut and hemp oil in cosmetics?

Coconut and hemp oil are not only popular in the kitchen, but both are also commonly used in the cosmetics industry and in skin and hair care.

Coconut and hemp oil are also used in the commercial use of hemp and coconut oil

Skin:

Moisturising: it has strong moisturising properties and helps to treat dry skin.

Anti-inflammatory: has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces irritation and redness.

Antimicrobial effects: helps fight bacteria and may be useful in treating acne.

Hair:

Deep nourishment: it can penetrate deep into the hair roots to provide sufficient hydration to the hair.

Shine and strength: helps restore shine and strength to the hair, especially if it is damaged.

Hemp oil

Skin:

Sebaceous gland balance: has the ability to balance sebum production, which is useful for both oily and dry skin.

Anti-inflammatory effects: helps relieve the symptoms of eczema, psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Anti-ageing: contains antioxidants that prevent skin ageing.

Hair:

Simulates growth: helps to circulate blood to the scalp, which may contribute to faster hair growth.

Moisturizing: leaves hair hydrated yet non-greasy.

Is coconut oil or hemp oil better for CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the many cannabinoids found in hemp. Carrier oil is often used to make CBD oil to help dissolve and break down the CBD. Both coconut oil and hemp oil can work well as a carrier oil for CBD, but each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Coconut oil as a carrier oil for CBD

Advantages:

High MCT content: coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can increase the bioavailability of CBD, meaning the body can absorb CBD more easily and quickly.

Taste and consistency: coconut oil has a mild and pleasant taste that may be appealing to some consumers.

Stability: coconut oil is stable and has a longer shelf life than some other oils.

Disadvantages:

Saturated fatty acid content: coconut oil is high in saturated fatty acids, which may bother some people.

Not synergistic: unlike hemp oil, it does not contain other cannabinoids or terpenes.

Hemp oil as a carrier oil for CBD

Benefits:

Synergistic effect: hemp oil may contain other cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids that can work synergistically with CBD to enhance its effects.

Essential fatty acids: Hemp oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which may provide additional health benefits.

Disadvantages:

Mild to earthy taste: hemp oil may be less palatable to some than coconut oil.

Shorter shelf life: it tends to spoil more quickly than coconut oil.

A few words in conclusion

Coconut and hemp oil, which have a long history of use and many beneficial properties, are becoming a popular choice in the kitchen and in cosmetics. While coconut oil is valued for its high smoke point and medium triglycerides, hemp oil is a rich source of essential fatty acids and offers a potential synergistic effect with cannabinoids. The choice between these oils often depends on specific uses and individual preferences. Whichever you choose, both of these oils offer unique benefits and can be a great addition to your home.

Hemp oil offers unique benefits that can enrich your life both when used in the kitchen and in cosmetics. So don't wait any longer to order a bottle of pure hemp oil and join those who have already discovered its exceptional benefits!