Sheabutter, Codina - Page Title

Welcome to our new edition of Cosmetic Vegetable Oils.
In August 2005, we talk about Coconut oil. For our "back to school" section we are giving you precious information about your skin so you can take care of it under hard conditions like sun and heat, and of course we are giving our answers to your most interesting questions.

Coconut oil: Cocos nucifera

HISTORY:
Coconut oil like other health giving foods has been enjoyed, and helped to sustain man-kind perhaps as long as life it self. It has been though only in the last 4000 years that the use of the fruit of the coconut palm tree has been documented. During this time the coconut fruit has enjoyed an extremely positive reputation for its benefits regarding the bodies health both internally and externally. It is important to mention that for a brief number of years in the near past. In 1954 heart disease became the leading cause of death and this caused researchers to look for the cause. It was at this time that saturated fats were believed to be the root cause, and by the 1960's they were gaining a bad reputation. Tropical oils such as palm and coconut that contained high amounts of saturated fats began to be viewed as un-healthy, and slowly began to loose favor. What is unfortunate was that also during this time there was much clinical research contradicting this theory, but regardless disfavor was born. It is important to note that this was only in western countries. In the tropical countries where many of the plants that produce the saturated oils grow, the use and understanding of the wonderful health benefits of the tropical oils has not declined, and in the case of coconut oil it has actually increased. And actually here in America for the past 5 years the sales of Coconut oil as a Nutritional Supplement and cosmetic healer have grown tremendously as many people are witnessing for them selves the amazing health and healing this plant provides. In fact many people who have begun using the oil of coconut often attribute there healing process to this blessed plant.

BOTANY:
commonly known as the Coconut Palm, it is a widely cultivated, important crop in sub-tropical and tropical countries and also commonly grown in Florida. It can grow up to 100 feet in height and it thrives near the sea. It produces a long, slender trunk topped with a crown of long, feathery leaves. After about six years, Coconut Palms produce of male and female flowers. The male flowers perish before the female flowers mature, thus assuring cross-pollination. The edible fruits that follow the flowers are popularly called Coconuts; they also provide Coconut oil, which is used to make edible oils, cooking oils, soap, shampoo, suntan lotions and other things. These Palms have many values in other countries besides just the fruit; other parts of the Palms are used for making utensils, mats and other various goods.

COMPOSITION OF COCONUT OIL:

Fatty acids	Distribution in %
Caprylic	9.1
Capric	6
Lauric	46.5
Myristic	18.4
Oleic	6.1
Linoleic	1.5
Stearic	4
Palmitic	8.1

PROPERTIES:
The Oil of the Coconut is perhaps one of the most uniquely healing edible and cosmetic oils that exists. One of the main known reasons is the presence of Medium Chain Fatty Acids (MCFA), which are also found in Mothers Milk. The MCFA's have been shown to assist the absorption and retention of calcium, magnesium and some amino acids as well supporting the healthy functioning of the thyroid.

The unique MCFA's in Coconut Oil have been proven highly effective in clinical research. Specifically they have been shown to act as an antibiotic and as an antiviral agent when taken internally.
(1) Literature references for the use of these fatty acids are now appearing at an increasing rate showing application in dental cavities, peptic ulcers, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), genital herpes, hepatitis C and even HIV/AIDS.

INTERNAL USE:
When coconut oil is consumed, the body makes the disease fighting monolaurin, which is the mono-glyceride of lauric acid (see chart). It was discovered that monolaurin could inactivate bacteria, yeast, fungi and enveloped viruses by disrupting the lipid membranes of the organisms. The antimicrobial effects of added and endogenous fatty acids and mono-glycerides are additive and total concentration is critical for inactivating viruses. Among the saturated fatty acids, lauric acid has the maximum antiviral activity.
(1)

COSMETIC USE:
As a skin care cosmetic Coconut Oil prevents destructive free-radical formation and provides protection against them. It can help to keep the skin from developing liver spots, and other blemishes caused by aging and over exposure to sunlight. It helps to keep connective tissues strong and supple so that the skin doesn't sag and wrinkle. In some cases it might even restore damaged or diseased skin. The oil is absorbed into the skin and into the cell structure of the connective tissues, limiting the damage excessive sun exposure can cause. This is due to its tiny molecular size, which is easily absorbed deep into the skin. These effects are not temporary, but part of a real healing which takes place from this fabulous oil. All of this basically means that the use of coconut oil will contribute to very healthy, supple, blemish free skin which will be less prone to sagging, stretch marks, and wrinkles.
1.Pharmacological Effect of Lipids Volumes 1,2, and 3 edited by J. J. Kabara, AOCS Press, Champaign, Illinois, 1978, 1985, 1990, respectively

Summer, The Skin, and Nutrition:

The skin is the largest organ of the body. Although its main purpose is protection, it also performs other functions, including minimizing water loss regulating body temperature, and waste elimination. It is not just a "case" that holds your body together. It is a living, breathing, vital part of your whole self. So the issue of the skins proper hydration is more than cosmetic, it is a vitally important component of your body's health. And likewise the overall healthy function of the skin will determine its cosmetic appearance. As in all other body tissues, nutrition plays a vital role in skin maintenance and health, and during the summer time caring for the skin becomes even more important as it is exposed to more heat and drying conditions. Dermal tissue (skin) depends on vitamin C and the amino acids protein and lysine (components of proteins) to support collagen. The minerals iron, zinc, and calcium act as cofactors for needed enzymes. The formation of melanin (color) requires copper, zinc, iron, cobalt, nickel, and the amino acid tyrosine. The skin also uses lipids or oils both through sebaceous glands, which directly moisturize the tissue of the skin, and by using the lipids to regulate the hormones, which control the function of the skin.

In even the best natural, whole-foods based diet, it is often indicated to supplement with essential-fatty-acids and healthy oils for optimal skin health and appearance. Some of the best oils to take internally for the skins health and hydration are Hemp Oil, Borage Oil, and Coconut Oil. Externally the Shea Butter is absolutely the best and is used in tropical countries endlessly for its rejuvenating benefits for the skin. The skin will return to its optimal state of health and beauty when ones diet is rich in whole foods, including the healthy cold press oils like we offer, and treated with 100% natural cosmetics such as our Shea Butter or shea oil easier to apply on the body or hair.

From Y: I have seen oils such as Flax Seed Oil, Coconut Oil, and others at my local health food store, and have also seen many articles on the health benefits of EFA’s. I am wondering if all oils contain EFA’s or what the difference might be.

Codina: Y, thank you for this very important and valuable question. Yes there are many oils to choose from whether in a grocery store or a health-food store, and no they do not all contain the EFA’s. Essential fatty acids are lipids (fats), which your body needs, but cannot make itself. In other words you must get them from your diet and supplementation. They are considered good fats, and among other things contribute to the healthy functioning of cell membranes. While technically only ALA (alpha linolenic) and LA (linoleic) are considered “ESENTIAL”, it is universally accepted that GLA, DHA, and EPA should be considered “ESENTIAL” also, as only few bodies can produce all they need, and only if the person is already consuming enough of the healthy oils, such as those found in Fish, Nuts, and Seeds.

So in short, it is important to know your oils so to speak, meaning use only a good healthy oil for your cooking needs, and generally stay away from mass-produced commercial oils, which are most often full of chemicals, and even rancid. And second it is most important to your health to consume the EFA’s your body needs. The most common foods that contain these are Flaxseed, Leafy Green Vegetables, Wheat Germ, Soybeans, Walnuts, Butternuts, and Red and Black Currant seeds. These are generally foods most people eat sparingly so supplementation is often desired. The oils Black Currant Seed, Evening Primrose, Borage Oil, Hemp Seed Oil, Gold of Pleasure, Perilla, and Wheat Germ can all be used as wonderfully healing EFA sources. And remember all of Codina’s oils are made with the highest ethics and standards concerning sustainable agriculture, and organic purity, never do we use chemicals, or process our oils unnaturally.

From M: I just received the Argan oil that I ordered from you and I am wondering if this oil can be use as a substitute to my anti-wrinkle cream or in addition to it and how?

Codina: As the Argan oil is very rich in vitamin E it can be use as a substitute to a anti-wrinkle cream; It is also recomended to add a vitamin A treatment for a more complete and efficient care. Carroten is a very good source of vitamin A. Use only a few drops and make sure to remove eccess as its orange color may stain your clothes. Now if you like your anti-wrinkle cream you can also use both cream and oil by mixing a few drops of oil in a small amount of cream before each application.

From P: I have read that it is very important to store oils in a correct way, and that also some companies sell fresher oils than others. Can you tell me if either of these are true, and if this really matters?

Codina:P. thank you very much, and yes this question matters! First as far as storage, oils must be kept in an air tight container away from heat. In fact the cooler the environment the better, and if you are going to stock up and store oils long term (generally more than 1 month) you are better off refrigerating them. The reason for this is that oils are subject to oxidation and becoming rancid. If kept in a cool dark place in a sealed container this minimizes chance of spoilage. Some oils in fact, especially those taken internally, can and should be refrigerated all the time. If fresh however they will not go bad if you have to travel and would like to take them with you. The only difficulty with refrigeration is some of the heavier oils may solidify, and in this case be hard to take. You can either set a few days worth aside for your daily dose, or with warm water over the container "melt" a enough to take.

As far as quality is concerned yes, yes indeed it matters from whom you buy your oils. For instance if a company is not diligent about the storage (both method and length of time) of the base ingredients and the finished product the oil can be very well rancid even before it is sold. However strange this may seem it is unfortunately surprisingly common practice for many commercial oil producers.

At Codina we assure that we employ the strictest, and most advanced methods in our production, and post production storage. We have a passion for the oils, and in no way ever offer a product which doesn't meet our personal standards, or our professional commitment to health, healing, and vital whole-food living.

NEW! Forum Codina: everything about vegetable oils health and skin.

Welcome to our new edition of Cosmetic Vegetable Oils. In July 2005, we talk about Hemp oil. Rheumatism is the topic of our "back to school" section, and of course we are giving our answers to your most intrresting questions. Editorial: This month with Hemp we are exploring the wide range of properties of this plant.
	Hemp (Cannabis Sativa)
HISTORY: Hemp has been known and used as a beneficial plant seemingly as far back as we have recorded history. For instance there are references to its use for the making of fabric from 8000 B.C., and in China there a records of it being used to make rope from as early as 12,000 B.C. Medicinally, also it has a lengthy history, being used for physical and emotional treatment from as early on as 8000 B.C. where in Mesopotamia for instance it was called "qu-na-bu" (a drug for grief). Domestically hemp was important both to the natives, and the European settlers. Both George Washington and Thomas Jefferson are well known to have cultivated hemp, recording in detail the growing of the plant and storing of seeds. BOTANY Hemp: an annual herb in the Cannabaceae family. It grows 3-10 feet tall, and its leaves will grow into 5-7 serrated leaflets, and are hairy as well as often sticky with a sap like resin. The plant grows as either a male or a female and naturally flowers from June to October. It is originally a native of the Caucasus region, which includes modern-day Eastern Europe, Northern India, and Iran. Currently it is cultivated worldwide in warm-to-temperate regions. Composition of Hemp Oil 60 % linoleic acid 20 % alpha-linoleic acid 2.6 % unsaturated gamma-linoleic acid 12% Oleic 2% Stearic Acid 6% Palmitic Acid PROPERTIES In the widely acclaimed book "Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill" Udo Erasmus the uncommonly nutritious Hemp Oil is proclaimed "Natures Most Perfectly Balanced Oil". This is absolutely due to its perfect 3:1 ratio of the EFA's Linoleic, and Linolenic Acid. This ratio is best suited for long-term human use and consumption. Recently at the University of Buffalo have identified an individual phytosterol in the C annabis Sativa plant, "B-sitosterol", which has been proven effective in inhibiting Prostate Cancer. The study showed a 28% increase in the inhibition of the cancer cells being able to divide, and therefore prevented the cancer from reproducing itself. There is also promising research from the University of Buffalo in using this same type of application with breast and colon cancer cells. Its 2-5% content of GLA is one of the highest of vegetable oils and is also believed to be responsible for its effective use as an anti-inflammatory, even being successful as a remedy for chronic inflammation. EFA's are known to be essential for the maintenance and health of the heart, development and function of the brain, and also absolutely necessary for health properly working, smooth, vibrant skin. The "Perfect Balance" of EFA's in Hemp makes it one of the most versatile, nutritious, and healing oils used by mankind. QUESTIONS Hello, I read your article on the oil of hemp and found its properties very interesting. On the other hand I would wish to know if there are counter-indications as for its use during the pregnancy? - Laetitia Codina: there are no particular counter-indications, but don't be fooled by its simple quality if you could only choose from a few necessary oils this would be at the top of the list. For instance if you use oils to season your salad of for other dressings, try and add Hemp Oil up to 20% I am 5 1/2 months pregnant and I am concerned about stretch marks Nathalie Codina: Prevention is the key of the fight against stretch marks. Once they occur they are very difficult to reverse. We propose a butter, that being a mixture of Hemp oil + Shea butter. The immediate penetration of the oil of hemp allows a faster action and the Shea butter than exerts a durable long lasting action. You should be massaged morning and evening on the light colored areas. IN REVIEW Hemp has a vast historical use within cultures and tends to find its traditional use associated with strength because of its many natural qualities (ropes, papers, fabrics, etc). With the present stage of our research, the oil of hemp seems one of the most complete and effective natural oils used in cosmetic. It is more widely used though as edible oil, both in routine consumption, and added as a supplement. The Oil that is used as a cosmetic is obtained by mechanical pressing of seeds, its perfectly preserved virtues are threefold and close to those of the oil of borage: hydration, flexibility of the skin, and the fight against the skins ageing. It contains: * 60 % of acid linoleic (fatty acid which supports the skin in three ways; reduces the water losses, has a softening action, reduced the skins irritation and inflammation, and increases surface circulation), * 20 % of alpha-linoleic acid, * 2.6 % of unsaturated gamma-linoleic acid to 90 %. The oil of hemp combines the most interesting properties of the oils mainly used in cosmetic: - It is recognized for its high acid contents fatty essential and acid gamma-linoleic: the free radicals are responsible for the ageing of the skin by their oxidizing action which waters the cells of saturated fatty acids. Generated by our organization and imported by our food, pollution, the sun, the free radicals deteriorate the structure of the cellular membrane, causing wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and brittleness of skins fabric. The essential fatty acids, present in strong quantity in the oil of hemp, compensate for the aggression of the free radicals by structuring the cellular membrane, and by forming fundamental concerning the cell. Thus, this invaluable contribution of unsaturated fatty acids helps the organization to constitute uninterrupted the structural elements necessary to the youth of the skin. - It is excellent oil for skin application and massage as it has an extraordinary faculty of penetr ation. In a few minutes, its fluidity enables it to act. - It is also recommended in aromatherapy as base oil: indeed, it in particular constitutes an ideal support for essential oils. - Hydrating, re-firming, and repairing, its daily application reinforces the structure of the skins fabric, protecting your skin from the abuse of time. With this balanced perfection the Oil of Hemp is best used internally and externally for all topical (skin) treatments, and can be consumed alone as a nutritional supplement even when it is not being used as a skin remedy.
	About Rheumatism:
- Any painful disorder of one's joints, muscles, or connective tissue. A group of disorders marked by inflammation or pain in the connective tissue structures of the body. These structures include bone, cartilage, and fat. Also Often Characterized by stiffness in related or surrounding areas. Rheumatism is the name used for the specific disorder, as well as a name used to group multiple imbalances, which seem to be of a common cause or complaint. Rheumatism has been noted to be of varied causes, and has most likely been truly the case. Some of the most common known causes are foreign invaders including viruses and antagonist proteins and chemicals; the body's own immune system acting out of balance or being triggered by a foreign substance, the wearing down of structure and function of the bodies own tissues and systems, and the improper metabolic function of the bodies cells. Antagonists such as foods and beverages, as well as chemicals in the environment both natural and man-made can cause rheumatism. It is also know to at time be caused by the internal climate of ones body being out of balance, and therefore the body begins to antagonize and in some cases even attack it self. Also it can be caused by foreign pathogens such as viruses, yeasts, and funguses. It is important to keep ones body strong, healthy, and protected from the elements. Rheumatism is often classified as a "cold" pathology and therefore can be prevented and treated by keeping the proper balance of temprature both environmentally and internally. Keeping warm in cool climates, consuming a proper balance of warming and cooling foods, beverages, and spices, and using circulation increasing techniques such as exercise, and massage with healthy oils will all contribute to keeping one's body from the maladies of "cold".

From F: I hear a lot about horizontal presses used to extract the butter from shea nuts; manual versus hydraulic etc. Obviously an hydraulic press can produce more than a manual powered press, but everyone is saying their company makes the best press to extract shea. Is there really a difference in machinery or is it a matter of how you prepare the nuts prior to pressing and how you handle the butter after the pressing? Do you use the German equipment I hear so much about or some other; and why is one hydraulic press better than ano ther. Codina: there is no difference between the various mechanical press. Horizontal press are older in Europe. Manual are used is Africa. The problem is that 99% if the butter produced in Africa is obtained by the women without manual or hydraulic press but only by boiled water which damdge the product. In our opinion, you can used all butters obtained by crushing method. Just be sure that it is not a solvent extraction process (most of the refined butter on the market) or a manual process without mechanical press (most of the raw butter on the market) From S: Hi, I would like to know what's the diference between sheabutter and olein. Do they have the same composition and virtue? Codina: It is mostly a matter of conveniency in application. Olein is easier to apply on hair for exemple. Now if it is used for more "medicinal" applications it is true that raw sheabutter is more complete and thus more efficient. Olein is only the liquid part of the butter. From M: How to use argan oil on mixt skin? morning and evening? should I apply it as a treatment for a few weeks, month or everyday? Is it compatible with my regular skin products? Codina: You can use argan oil every day and be even more generous in the evening. You can add a few drops in your cream as well. Regarding your needs in vitamin E you can either use it as a treatment for a few weeks or every day. Your skin will tell you.
NEW! Forum Codina: everything about vegetable oils health and skin.