10 best cold-pressed oils in India as recommended by an expert

Pick up these cold-pressed oils from the market.

By: Mansi Kohli | | Updated: August 24, 2017 11:31 am

The word ‘cold-pressed’ has started becoming a part of our daily conversations. But what is cold-pressed really? Is it worth the hype? Nidhi Mohan Kamal, Managing Director at NidSun Wellness Clinics, New Delhi, helps us in deciphering the cold-pressed technique and tell us about the best cold pressed oils you could opt for.

Understanding cold-pressed oils
Cold-pressed is basically a technique, which separates the fibre from a particular food item without using any amount of heat. This in turns helps to preserve the nutritive value of the food and maybe even helps the food to taste better as the oxidation process is relatively slower.
Initially, this concept was used on fruits and vegetables from which juices were made. Now, the same has been applied to oils as well. This technique helps to retain the aroma, flavour and nutritional value of food making it an ideal choice for cooking. Cold-pressed oils contain the natural antioxidant of the seed from which they were produced. Another point to be noted in using and consuming these cold-pressed oils is the smoking point of oil, which in most of these cases is low.

Top 10 varieties of cold-pressed oils you must opt for

1. Olive Oil– This has been essentially known to be a good source of antioxidants like Vitamin E and protects our cells and body tissues from free radical damage. It, hence, has anti-cancer and anti-bacterial effects too. It is a good source of oleic acid, which helps in strengthening of the immune system, which at times gets destroyed due to the heating procedures.
Recommended Oil: Borges Olive Oil Extra Light

2. Coconut Oil– This oil contains lauric acid – a starter to an anti-microbial active fat, which helps in protecting against a lot of infections. It is the same acid present in breast milk too that helps in protecting the baby against a lot of infections. This oil is good for healthy gut. Coconut oil is suitable for cooking too as it has a high heat tolerance.
Recommended Oil: Organic Veda Virgin Coconut Oil

3. Flax seed Oil- This is basically extracted from flax seeds and is a great source of polyunsaturated fatty acids like omega3 fatty acids. It helps in decreasing inflammation in the body. In fact, flaxseed oil is also used as a laxative and for weight loss purposes.
Recommended Oil: BNB Virgin Lin Seed Oil

4. Blackcurrant Oil – This oil is obtained from the seeds of the blackcurrant berry, and is a great source of GLA – an important Omega-6 fatty acid. It is a precursor to hormone like substances that regulates inflammation, among many other body functions.
Recommended Oil: Botanical Beauty Black Currant Seed Oil

5. Borage oil – This oil comes from the seeds of the edible borage flowering plant. It is also a source of Omega-6 fatty acid, which is known to lower the age-related symptoms such as respiratory disorders and eczema. It also helps in counteracting the effect of free radicals.
Recommended Oil: Crysalis Borage Oil

6. Walnut oil – Walnut oil not only has a high amount of Omega-6, but also has a decent amount of Omega-3. Several medical studies have indicated that walnut oil offers a rich source for antioxidants, specifically ellagic acid. This helps in the detoxification of several substances linked to the development of cancers. It is high in manganese and melatonin, which helps in regulating the body’s clock. This oil also reduces the risk of heart diseases, improving cardiovascular strength and also helps in maintaining the hormonal levels of the body. Here are health benefits of walnuts.
Recommended Oil: Deve Herbes Pure Borage Oil

7. Sesame oil– This is a good source of vitamin E, and is also known for its antioxidant property. It also has a high concentration of fatty acids, including polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acids and monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acids. Its other constituents include zinc, copper, magnesium, calcium and iron as well as vitamin B-6. It also lends a number of cardiovascular as well as beauty benefits.
Recommended Oil: Kama Ayurveda Organic Sesame Oil

8. Groundnut oil- Groundnut oil is naturally sweet and flavoured edible oil. It’s very high in energy, has a high burning and smoking point, and contains MUFA, PUFA, Vitamins A, D and E in appropriate amounts. It helps in lowering the bad cholesterol and hence maintains heart health. Read: Mustard oil or groundnut oil – which is healthier?
Recommended Oil: FreshMill Cold Pressed Ground Nut Oil

9. Chia seed Oil– This oil contains more than 60% omega-3 fatty acid. A lot of cultures have used chia seeds as a staple food for thousands of years to increase endurance and strength. Chia oil can also be used as a massage oil or body oil to nourish and replenish skin.
Recommended Oil: Botanical Beauty Organic Chia Seeds Oil

10. Hemp seed Oil– This oil is rich in digestible protein and consists of omega 3 fatty acids and has a typical nutty flavour to it. It has a fairly limited shelf life. Hemp oil is a great source of Vitamin A and Vitamin E, along with various other minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium among others.
Recommended Oil: Nutiva Organic Hemp Oil

Do note that one cannot label a particular oil to be the best for maintaining one’s own health, as each oil has its own nutritional value and contributes goodness in its own way. So, a mixture of varied oils is always recommended.

*All these oils have been recommended based on their taste, purity, character and price point. The only reason why the above-mentioned brands are recommended is because these brands have the best-suited pricing, availability and taste.

Image source: Shutterstock

Published : August 24, 2017 11:17 am | Updated:August 24, 2017 11:31 am

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