Avocado oil is an edible oil extracted from the pulp of avocados, the fruit of Persea americana. It is used as an edible oil both raw and for cooking, where it is noted for its high smoke point. It is also used for lubrication and in cosmetics.
Pressed from fresh avocado pulp, which is up to 25 percent fat, avocado oil has the highest smoke point of all plant-based cooking oils (510 to 520°F). It's over 50 percent monounsaturated fat, which makes avocado oil less prone to oxidation than polyunsaturated oils, but still liquid at room temperature.
There are two main types of avocado oil, so-called virgin, and refined. Virgin avocado oil is the pure oil that's extracted by pressing the flesh of the avocado fruit and then spinning the pulp to separate the oil from the water and fruit solids. Like with olive oil, avocado oil made from the first pressing of the avocados is referred to as "extra-virgin."
Extra-virgin avocado oil retains similar properties to the actual avocado, so it has a deep green hue, buttery, fatty flavor, and a smoke point of around 482°F. The green hue comes from chlorophylls present in the flesh and skin of the fruit. For this reason, it's essential to store the oil away from the light, as the presence of chlorophyll can trigger oxidation and increase the likelihood of going rancid.
Refined avocado oil is made by filtering the virgin oil to remove small particles of pulp and other impurities. This process also removes the green color, along with much of the flavor and aroma of the oil. So refined avocado oil has a translucent yellow appearance and a higher smoke point between 500F and 520F. The refinement process involves deodorizing or bleaching the oil, so the flavor is much more subtle.
Benefits of using avocado oil:
1.Moisturises and heals skin:
Avocado oil contains a high percentage of Vitamin E, as well as potassium, lecithin, and many other nutrients which can nourish and moisturize your skin.
The oleic acid also promotes collagen production, which helps grow new skin. This accelerates the healing process, helping with issues like sunburn.
2.Helps with eczema and psoriasis:
Dry, itchy skin is a common symptom of eczema and psoriasis, but the vitamins and antioxidants in avocado oil can help.
3.Possibly treat acne:
The anti-inflammatory effects of avocado oil may be able to treat and possibly even prevent acne. When left on for short periods and then washed off with warm water, the oil keeps the skin hydrated without leaving an oily residue.
4.Reduces wrinkles and signs of aging:
Fatty acids in avocado oil help the skin retain its elasticity, which in turn slows the formation of wrinkles.
5.Improves nails and hair:
The natural oils within avocados can help to keep nails and surrounding skin soft, whilst it reduces breakages, it can also heal dry and brittle nails. A dry, flaky scalp can also be treated with avocado oil, helping reduce dandruff and other similar problems.
