How to Make Your Own Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a winter essential for skin, hair care, and cooking. Making it at home ensures its purity and quality. Contrary to what you might think, homemade coconut oil is easy to make with just a bit of time and care. Here’s how you can try two simple methods to enjoy the authentic benefits of real coconut oil at home.

Method 1: Oatmeal Method

1. Select a ripe brown coconut and split it in half using a sharp knife.
2. Remove the coconut meat from the shell carefully, using a coconut shelling tool or butter knife.
3. Chop the coconut meat into small pieces or grate it.
4. Blend the coconut pieces in a blender, adding a small amount of water if necessary.
5. Strain the blended coconut through a coffee filter or clean cloth to extract the coconut milk. Press thoroughly to release all the liquid.
6. Set the bowl aside for 24 hours. The coconut milk and oil will naturally separate, with the oil rising to the top.
7. Use a spoon to separate the oil layer, which is your pure homemade coconut oil.

Method 2: Heat Extraction Method

1. Start by heating 4 cups of water in a pan until steam appears.
2. Grate two coconuts and blend the grated coconut with the hot water until smooth. Avoid overfilling the blender with hot water for safety.
3. Strain the coconut milk through a fine cloth, squeezing to extract all liquid.
4. Transfer the strained liquid to a pot and heat on medium, stirring constantly. As the water evaporates, the cream will separate from the oil. Continue this for about an hour until the cream browns and the oil is fully separated.
5. Alternatively, if you prefer not to heat the mixture, pour it into a container, wrap it with plastic, and let it rest at room temperature for 24 hours. After refrigeration, the oil will solidify on top. Skim the solidified oil and store it separately.
6. Any leftover coconut milk can be enhanced with essential oils to use as a scrub.

Storing Your Coconut Oil

Your homemade coconut oil can last 2-3 months at room temperature, or longer if kept in the refrigerator in a glass jar. This versatile oil is perfect for both cooking and beauty treatments, giving you all-natural benefits. Embrace this DIY approach for a touch of purity and freshness in your daily routine.