5 Myths About Wood-Pressed Oils You Need to Know
In the lately Health conscious world where some of us are focusing on the health benefits of physical activity or exercise there are a few who are in addition also consciously eating the right things to achieve that extra mile of Healthy Body.
What is a Healthy Body??
Of course, when you are healthy inside out. Wood-pressed oils, also known as cold-pressed oils, have gained popularity in recent years as a healthier alternative to refined oils. Despite their growing popularity, several myths and misconceptions still surround these natural oils. In this blog, we'll debunk the top 5 myths about wood-pressed oils and help you understand their true benefits.
Myth 1: Wood-Pressed Oils Are the Same as Refined Oils
Reality: One of the biggest misconceptions is that wood-pressed oils and refined oils are essentially the same. This couldn't be further from the truth.
-Wood-pressed oils are extracted by crushing seeds or nuts at room/low temperatures using traditional wooden churners. These are also called Kolhu/Chekku. This process retains the oil's natural flavour, nutrients, and aroma. It is processed without the usage of chemicals/impurities.
-Refined oils, on the other hand, go through high-temperature processing, bleaching, and deodorization, which strips away most nutrients and the refining process introduces a variety of harmful chemicals that strip the oil of its natural nutrients and may leave behind residues or create harmful byproducts, such as trans fats. What remains is a polluted harmful liquid.
Bottom Line: Wood-pressed oils are richer in nutrients and have a more natural composition compared to refined oils, making them a healthier choice.
Myth 2: Wood-Pressed Oils Have a Short Shelf Life
Reality: While it's true that wood-pressed oils have a shorter shelf life compared to refined oils, they still have a decent lifespan if stored properly. These oils are sensitive to light, heat, and air, which can cause them to go rancid faster.
Proper storage tips:
Keep them in dark glass bottles.
Store them in a cool, dark place.
Seal the bottle tightly after each use.
Bottom Line:
When stored correctly, wood-pressed oils can last up to 12 months, making them perfectly suitable for regular use.
Myth 3: Wood-Pressed Oils Are Too Expensive
Reality: Wood-pressed oils tend to be more expensive than refined oils, but that doesn't mean they aren't worth the investment. Their higher price is due to the traditional extraction process, which is labour-intensive, time-consuming and yields a smaller quantity of oil. However, this higher price reflects the quality and purity of the oil.
The health benefits you gain from using wood-pressed oils far outweigh the cost difference. These oils are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, which contribute to overall well-being.
Additionally, wood-pressed oils are nutrient-dense, so you often need less of them compared to refined oils. This means you can use them more sparingly, making them cost-effective in the long run.
Any which ways how many times in a month do we have a family outing & how much do we spend. So is it really the cost that is what matters to us?? It’s a mindset which needs to change for the wellbeing of our families. Don’t you think!
Bottom Line – The Truth: Think of wood-pressed oils as an investment in your health. A small amount goes a long way, and the nutritional value justifies the cost. The price of wood-pressed oils reflects their quality and nutritional value.
Myth 4: Wood-Pressed Oils Are Only Good for Cooking
Reality: Many people believe that wood-pressed oils are solely meant for cooking, but they have a variety of uses beyond the kitchen. These oils can be used for:
Skincare: Wood-pressed oils like coconut, sesame, and almond oil make excellent moisturizers and massage oils.
Haircare: They nourish the scalp, promote hair growth, and add shine.
Medicinal Purposes: Traditionally, some wood-pressed oils are used in Ayurvedic treatments to address health issues. The new concept (which is ancient approximately 3000-5000 years old by the way) of oil pulling is also one of the better uses in this.
Bottom Line:
Wood-pressed oils are versatile and offer benefits beyond just cooking, making them a valuable addition to your daily routine. Myth
5: Wood-Pressed Oils and Cold-Pressed Oils Are the Same
Reality: While both wood-pressed and cold-pressed oils are extracted without the use of heat or chemicals, they aren’t exactly the same, and the difference lies in the extraction process.
Wood-Pressed Oils: These oils are extracted using a traditional wooden churner, known as a "Ghani." This method involves crushing seeds or nuts at a slow speed, using a wooden pestle, which ensures minimal heat generation and retains the oil’s nutrients, flavor, and aroma. The use of wood also prevents any reaction with the oil, preserving its quality.
Cold-Pressed Oils: The cold-pressing method uses modern stainless-steel presses to extract oil. While this process also maintains a low temperature, it tends to be slightly faster and may involve some friction, generating a bit more heat compared to the wood-pressed method.
The Truth: Both wood-pressed and cold-pressed oils retain nutrients and are healthier options than refined oils. However, wood-pressed oils often have a richer flavour and aroma due to their traditional extraction process, which preserves more of the oil's natural qualities.
Conclusion :
Wood-pressed oils are a fantastic alternative to refined oils, offering a plethora of health benefits. However, it's crucial to separate fact from fiction to make informed choices. By understanding these common myths, you can enjoy the true benefits of wood-pressed oils and incorporate them into your lifestyle with confidence. So, the next time you reach for an oil bottle, opt for a wood-pressed one, and reap the rewards of this natural, nutrient-packed product. For once do not look at your pockets to purchase a healthy lifestyle because we all know it’s not about the few extra 100’s in your budget instead of the 1000’s in hospital bills. It’s all about changing the Mindset.