Why Wood Pressed Oils are Making a Comeback in Modern Kitchens

Wood pressed oils, also known as Marachekku or Kachi Ghani oils, are traditional oils extracted using a wooden press at low temperatures. With growing awareness about the health hazards of refined oils, wood pressed oils are gaining traction again in Indian kitchens for their purity, nutrition, and taste.

What Are Wood Pressed Oils?

Wood pressed oils are extracted by crushing seeds like groundnut, sesame, coconut, mustard, etc., using a wooden press (usually made of vaagai wood) without external heat. This method preserves the oil’s nutrients, flavor, and aroma.

Common Types of Wood Pressed Oils:

• Wood Pressed Groundnut Oil
• Wood Pressed Coconut Oil
• Wood Pressed Mustard Oil
• Wood Pressed Sesame Oil
• Wood Pressed Sunflower Oil

Top 7 Reasons Why Wood Pressed Oils Are Making a Comeback

1. Chemical-Free and Pure

Refined oils undergo chemical bleaching, deodorizing, and solvent extraction. In contrast, wood pressed oils are 100% natural, free from chemicals and preservatives.

2. Retains Natural Nutrients

The cold extraction method ensures vitamins A, E, and polyphenols remain intact, offering better antioxidant protection and health benefits.

3. Supports Heart Health

Wood pressed oils are rich in monounsaturated fats and omega fatty acids, making them a heart-friendly option for daily cooking.

4. Boosts Immunity & Digestion

Traditional oils like sesame and coconut help improve gut health and strengthen the immune system—something refined oils fail to do.

5. Better Taste and Aroma

Because they’re unrefined, wood pressed oils retain their natural aroma and enhance the flavor of Indian dishes like sabzis, chutneys, and curries.

6. Sustainable and Locally Made

These oils are usually produced in small-scale mills, supporting local farmers and reducing the carbon footprint of industrial processing.

7. Ideal for Skin and Hair Care

Thanks to their purity, wood pressed oils are also excellent for Ayurvedic beauty applications—moisturizing skin, improving hair strength, and treating dryness.

How to Identify Genuine Wood Pressed Oils

• Check for cloudiness and natural sediments—pure oils aren’t crystal clear.
• Look for cold press or wood press extraction labels.
• Avoid oils with added fragrance or yellow color.

Best Oils to Start With

If you're switching from refined oils, start with:

• Groundnut Oil: Great for deep frying and Indian cooking.
• Coconut Oil: Excellent for sautéing, baking, and skin care.
• Sesame Oil: A must-have in South Indian kitchens.

FAQs on Wood Pressed Oils

Are wood pressed oils good for frying?

Yes! They have a stable smoke point and retain nutrients better than refined oils.

Can I use wood pressed oils for babies?

Yes, especially for massage. Virgin coconut oil and sesame oil are commonly used in Ayurveda for infant massage.

Do wood pressed oils expire faster?

They have a shorter shelf life (4–6 months) due to no preservatives. Store them in a cool, dark place.

Conclusion

Switching to wood pressed oils isn’t just a health trend—it’s a return to our roots. Whether you're cooking, frying, or applying oil topically, these natural oils offer superior benefits over their refined counterparts. Bring back the age-old goodness to your modern kitchen today!

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