In today’s health-conscious world, the scrutiny of kitchen contents and their impact on our bodies intensifies. The debate surrounding refined oils versus wood-pressed (cold-pressed) oils gains momentum. Refined oils, ubiquitous in most homes, are often processed with chemicals and subjected to high heat, thereby stripping them of essential nutrients. Conversely, wood-pressed oils present a more traditional, nutrient-dense alternative. However, a prevalent misconception hinders their adoption: the belief that wood-pressed oils have low smoke points, rendering them unsuitable for high-heat cooking.
This myth is set to be debunked, shedding light on the health benefits of transitioning to wood-pressed oils.
What Are Wood-Pressed Oils?
Wood-pressed oils are extracted traditionally, where seeds or nuts are crushed at a low temperature using a wooden pestle in a rotary (ghani) system. This slow, chemical-free process preserves the oil's natural aroma, flavor, and nutrients, positioning it as a healthier alternative to refined oils.
Myth: Wood-Pressed Oils Have Low Smoke Points
This notion is only partially accurate and frequently misinterpreted. While refined oils boast higher smoke points, this is not inherently beneficial for health. The smoke point is the temperature at which oil begins to burn and break down, producing harmful compounds.
Wood-pressed oils, though having relatively lower smoke points than refined counterparts, can still be used in a wide range of cooking methods safely:
-
Cold-pressed mustard oil: ~250°C (excellent for Indian tadka)
-
Wood-pressed groundnut oil: ~160–180°C (ideal for sautéing, deep-frying)
-
Wood-pressed coconut oil: ~175°C (great for stir-frying, curries)
-
Wood-pressed sesame oil: ~210°C (perfect for roasts and traditional dishes)
Thus, unless deep-frying at extremely high temperatures is a regular practice (which is not advisable for health reasons), wood-pressed oils are safe and beneficial.
Why Replace Refined Oils?
Refined oils are:
-
Highly processed using chemical solvents
-
Bleached and deodorized, removing natural nutrients
-
Linked to inflammation and poor heart health
Conversely, wood-pressed oils:
-
Retain natural antioxidants and vitamins like E and K
-
Are free from trans fats and harmful chemicals
-
Support better digestion and immune function
-
Help maintain heart health and manage cholesterol levels
Practical Ways to Use Wood-Pressed Oils in Your Kitchen
-
For Cooking:
-
Opt for wood-pressed groundnut oil for deep frying and curries.
-
Choose wood-pressed mustard oil for Indian dishes like pickles, saag, and parathas.
-
Prefer wood-pressed coconut oil for South Indian and tropical recipes.
-
Utilise wood-pressed sesame oil for stir-fries and Asian cuisines.
-
-
For Salad Dressings and Dips:
Wood-pressed oils are rich in flavour. Add them raw to your salads, hummus, or dips for a healthy kick. -
For Skin & Hair:
The purity of wood-pressed oils makes them safe for topical use—moisturise your skin, condition your hair, or even use them for oil pulling.
Recommended Alternatives to Refined Oils
| Refined Oil You Use | Wood-Pressed Alternative | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Refined Sunflower Oil | Wood-Pressed Groundnut Oil | General cooking, frying |
| Refined Soybean Oil | Wood-Pressed Mustard Oil | Indian meals, stir-fry |
| Refined Canola Oil | Wood-Pressed Sesame Oil | Asian dishes, salad dressings |
| Refined Coconut Oil | Wood-Pressed Coconut Oil | Curries, baking, and skincare |
Aurganicum’s Wood-Pressed Oils: Purity You Can Taste
At Aurganicum, we source premium quality wood-pressed oils that are chemical-free, naturally filtered, and packed with nutrients. Whether it’s groundnut, mustard, coconut, or sesame, our oils are ideal for your everyday cooking and holistic wellness routine.
Explore our wood-pressed oils collection here.
Conclusion: Choose Oils That Nourish, Not Just Cook
It’s time to move away from highly processed, nutritionally empty oils and embrace traditional wisdom with modern awareness. Wood-pressed oils not only add flavour but also support long-term health. They’re not just for the kitchen—they’re a lifestyle upgrade.
So the next time you reach for that bottle of oil, make it a decision that feeds your body and your well-being. Switch to wood-pressed oils with Aurganicum—and feel the difference.
