What are vegetable oils and what are they used for?
Vegetable oils are often used for their nutritional, medicinal and cosmetic properties. Natural substances have become essential to our lives, whether in cooking, aromatherapy or beauty. This article examines the different vegetable oils, their origins and the many ways they can improve our well-being.
Vegetable oils are natural products that have many benefits for the skin. Depending on skin types and their needs, they can be used to moisturize, nourish, protect and soothe.
The origins of vegetable oils
Vegetable oils are obtained from fruits, nuts, oilseeds or other parts of plants. The extraction process varies depending on the type of plant, but it generally involves cold pressing or solvent extraction to best preserve the beneficial properties of the oils. Some examples of popular vegetable oils include olive oil, coconut oil, sweet almond oil , jojoba oil , and argan oil .
Some vegetable oils and their uses
- Olive oil
Olive oil is famous for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is widely used in cooking for its cardiovascular benefits. In addition, it is an excellent skin moisturizer and can be applied to nourish hair.
- Coconut oil
Coconut oil is versatile and prized for its antibacterial properties. It is used in cooking, hair care and cosmetics , providing effective hydration and natural treatment for damaged hair.
- Sweet almond oil
Known for its gentleness, sweet almond oil is used in aromatherapy and cosmetics . It is known for soothing dry and irritated skin , while being non-aggressive for sensitive skin .
- Jojoba oil
Jojoba oil, extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, is similar to the skin's natural sebum . It is often used in care products to nourish the skin without clogging pores and is nourishing for dry hair .
- Argan Oil
Originally from Morocco, argan oil is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E. It is prized for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties, and is often used in skin and hair care.
- Evening primrose oil
This oil is extracted from the seeds of the evening primrose plant. It is known for its revitalizing properties and is often used to relieve symptoms of PMS and menopause.
- Carrot oil
Carrot oil comes from a derivative of carrot maceration and is very renowned for its benefits. By forming a protective barrier, the oil prevents transepidermal water loss, thus promoting soft, supple and well-hydrated skin . Its properties are also revealed by its anti-aging action as well as a perfect tan , thanks to its high antioxidant content!
Culinary applications
In addition to their uses in personal care, the uses of vegetable oils are also recognized in cooking to enhance the flavor of dishes and provide essential nutrients. Olive oil, for example, is a key component of Mediterranean cuisine, while sesame oil is frequently used in Asian cuisine. These oils not only provide delicious flavor, but they can also contribute to a balanced diet.
Health benefits
Vegetable oils are often considered key components of a healthy diet. Essential fatty acids, such as omega -3 and omega -6, are essential for cardiovascular health, brain function and maintaining healthy skin. By incorporating them into your diet, you can benefit from the exceptional nutritional properties of a variety of vegetable oils.
Additionally, vegetable oils are rich in vitamin E, which are antioxidant agents. These protect cells from free radicals, which can contribute to the development of diseases such as cancer and heart conditions. Flaxseed oil, for example, has been shown to benefit heart and brain health.
Cosmetic and personal care applications
Due to their many properties, vegetable oils have become popular ingredients in the skin and hair care industry. For example, rosehip oil is known for its regenerating effects on the skin, and helps to reduce scars and wrinkles . Likewise, avocado oil is rich in vitamins and fatty acids , making it a great option for hair and skin.
Precautions to take
Although vegetable oils offer many benefits, it is important to use them carefully. Some people may be allergic to certain oils, so it is recommended to do a skin test before regular use.
To preserve their nutritional properties, it is necessary to keep them cool, in a dry place and protected from light. If these conditions are not respected, the oils deteriorate and their use is then toxic !
In order to best protect the oils and not alter their effects, it is important to carefully follow the conservation instructions.
In summary, vegetable oils offer a variety of health, beauty and cooking benefits. Their many applications make them essential in many homes around the world. Vegetable oils are true natural treasures that should be included in your daily life, whether to add flavor to your dishes, nourish your skin, soothe skin irritations , promote healing or revitalize your hair.
You can take full advantage of their benefits while taking a more natural and holistic approach to health and beauty, incorporating them wisely.
Go further on vegetable and essential oils
We tend to confuse essential and vegetable oils, however even if they have similarities in their benefits, their creation differs:
Essential oils are concentrated aromatic substances, extracted from plants by distillation.
They have antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Essential oils can be used on the skin, diffused or inhaled.
Go further on vegetable butters
Vegetable butter consists of solid fats, extracted from nuts or seeds. The plant is crushed or left to macerate in order to recover the material. Butter is rich in saturated fatty acids, which nourish and protect the skin. For example, shea butter, which is generally used for skin application but also to treat dry and damaged hair, thus providing hydration from the scalp to the ends.