Cocoa butter is one of the most popular superfoods today. It is used not only for manufacturing, but also in, and. We will talk about this cocoa product in this article - how this vegetable fat is obtained, how it can be used in everyday life, what self-care products based on it exist, how to choose and do it right at home.
What is cocoa butter made of and how is it obtained?
Cocoa butter is obtained from cocoa beans. This is the final stage of bean processing, after grated cocoa. 
After extracting cocoa beans from the fruits of the tree, they are dried and fermented (kept in the open air under), after which they are roasted. Such beans become hard and dark.
Did you know? Cocoa beans served as a means of money circulation for the Indians of South America. Severe punishment awaited for their forgery.
After chemical treatment and crushing, the beans are crushed on roller machines into grated cocoa. Next, the resulting mass is sent under powerful presses, which squeeze out cocoa butter. The remaining cake goes to the preparation of cocoa powder. And the resulting fat is used to make chocolate, or cosmetics.
Chemical composition
Chemical composition- two- and three-acid triglycerides mixed with fatty acids.
Fatty acid:
- oleic acid - up to 43%;
- stearic acid - up to 34%;
- lauric and palmitic acids - up to 25%;
- linoleic acid - 2%;
- arachidic acid - traces.
At a temperature of 16-18 °C, the oil is hard and brittle in structure. Melts at 32-35°C. At 40 °C it becomes transparent.
Color varies from light yellow to brown. It has a characteristic pleasant smell of cocoa.
Important! If the oil is white, it means that it has gone rancid and is not suitable for use.
Benefits of cocoa butter
This vegetable fat combines quite a lot of useful things for humans:
- relieves inflammation;
- reduces the level
- beneficial effect on the blood - increases the production of hemoglobin, improves blood circulation;
- heals wounds very well and increases tissue repair;
- helps well with problems;
- helps with;
- has an expectorant effect.
Did you know? Because of its tonic properties and as an antidepressant, cocoa is included in the rations of many armies in the world.
These properties justify the use of this fat in various industries and life.
Application in various fields
If we look at the properties of cocoa, we will see that there are three areas of its application.
In cooking
The earliest known use, and the most famous, is in cooking. After all, it is a derivative of cocoa - basis for making any chocolate.
Without such fat, it is impossible to imagine the confectionery industry. It is part of all chocolates, icing, fondants, many cakes, sweets.
It is he who gives the chocolate satiety, lightness and that very chocolate smell. 
In cosmetology
It nourishes very well, fills with moisture, and all this without unpleasant sensations and undesirable. Cocoa butter is suitable, because of its beneficial properties, and for the production of products aimed at.
The easiest is to lubricate the affected area.
You can prepare an enema solution. To do this, you need a tablespoon of crushed chamomile flowers, half a liter of hot and a teaspoon of cocoa butter. First, prepare an infusion of flowers. Then the fat is thrown in. Everything, the tool is ready for use. 
For gynecological diseases
Cocoa butter has also found its use in gynecology, as a means of combating erosions of the cervix.
To do this, use tampons lubricated with melted fat (melt 1 teaspoon in a water bath to a liquid state) and oil (10 drops). The tampon is put on, the procedure is repeated for two weeks.
For hair
Such vegetable fat has a good effect on, strengthens the bulbs, eliminates brittleness and dryness, and adds shine.
Cocoa butter is included in masks for and finds its use there to eliminate all kinds of problems.
Cocoa butter will help your eyebrows and eyelashes too. Rub it into the eyebrows from the middle of the face to the temples. And apply to the eyelashes with a mascara brush. After that, cover your eyes with napkins and lie down for a quarter of an hour. 
How to choose when buying
Choose right product not easy, especially for an inexperienced person.
- Price. Such a product is not very cheap. The price of cocoa beans is rising every year, respectively, and the oil from them cannot be too cheap.
- Smell. The butter should smell like cocoa. If there is none, either it is refined oil (which should be indicated on the label), or a fake.
- Colour. The present good oil- yellowish-white, cream. If the oil is white, gray - either it is old and rancid, or they are trying to sell you counterfeit.
- Consistency. The original product is solid at normal temperature. If it is plastic to the touch and does not crumble, they are clearly trying to deceive you.
Try to shop in reliable stores and check before buying what they are trying to sell you. 
How to store at home
A few words about how to properly store cocoa butter at home. Its shelf life is two years from the date of production. After the expiration of this period, the product is unusable and must be disposed of.
At home, it should be stored in an opaque container at a temperature not exceeding 18 degrees and at a humidity of less than 70%, but preferably not in.
Contraindications and precautions
The described tool is considered quite safe. Possible troubles are associated with. Although they are not frequent, nevertheless, before the first application do an allergy test. To do this, apply a little ointment to the inside of the elbow bend. After a while, look at the place of application. If there are no negative reactions (redness, itching) - you do not have. 
Be careful when using such products at night. Cocoa contains an alkaloid similar in action to caffeine. That is, the use of cocoa butter before bedtime can also cause excessive excitability.
As you can see, cocoa is not only suitable for eating. From this oil, you can prepare many useful products for face and body care, for the treatment of coughs and wounds. The tool has almost no contraindications and can be used even for small ones. But be careful when choosing such a product, so as not to fall victim to deceivers.
We all love to enjoy delicious chocolate. It literally melts in your mouth and all thanks to its main ingredient - cocoa butter. In this article, we will talk in detail about cocoa butter: properties and applications, where it can be purchased and how to store it properly so that it does not lose its qualities.
It is obtained from the seeds of the chocolate tree - cocoa beans. They go through a long process of processing - from fermentation to drying and roasting, after which they fall under the press. The resulting oil is filtered and poured into molds where it solidifies. The result is a solid and fragrant light yellow substance that melts when heated.
This oil has a wide range of applications and is a universal female assistant.
What miraculous properties does it possess, besides being beautiful and delicate taste? Cocoa butter is widely used in cosmetology and traditional medicine, used in most confectionery products. You can also use this product for your home use.
Chocolate is widely used to make various sweets. But cocoa butter: properties and uses are not limited to one cooking. The product has many useful qualities, which include anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties, regenerating and analgesic healing properties.
It should be noted that this product is imported and is not grown in our country.
Cocoa butter is also considered effective tool cough, thanks to its enveloping properties. It perfectly heals small wounds and cracks on the skin, removes wrinkles and dryness, thanks to its nourishing and moisturizing qualities.
It is a versatile lip care agent, especially in winter period - oil helps with cracking and drying of the skin. It relieves inflammation and eliminates the effects of acne, hides crow's feet in the corners of the eyes.
Cocoa butter: beneficial features and contraindications - if we compare both criteria, we can say with confidence that the product is absolutely safe and natural. The only contraindication to its use may be individual intolerance and allergies.
How useful is cocoa butter?
Useful properties are not unlimited. There are practically no vitamins in cocoa butter. A, D and E are contained in extremely small proportions. But this is well compensated by the absence of trans fats, which can be found in all other vegetable oils.
The benefits of the product are due to the rich content useful substances and enzymes
Benefits of cocoa butter , if he has such a composition that is not rich in vitamins?
It is based on fatty acids. These are oleic, stearic, linoleic and palmitic acids. More than half of the mass of the product is occupied by the first of their list. It is useful in lowering cholesterol levels.
If we replace the usual fats that we eat with cocoa butter, the likelihood of strokes and atherosclerosis is reduced.
Tannin, xanthine and caffeine in its composition have a good effect on the health of hair and skin, so the oil is often used for cosmetic purposes.
How to use cocoa butter?
The easiest way to use cocoa butter - make chocolate out of it. Melt the product in a water bath and mix with cocoa powder and sugar in a ratio of 1:1. Any ingredients to taste can be added to the mixture, from honey and candied fruits to berries and other dried fruits. In a similar way, you can prepare confectionery glaze.
The possibilities of using this natural substance are very wide. This oil has been used not only in cosmetology and confectionery, but also in gynecology and traditional medicine. This is a universal tool that should be at hand for any hostess.
Cocoa butter for colds is a great helper on the road to recovery
- It is used for colds, cracked lips and heels, hemorrhoids and bronchitis. Cocoa butter has properties that help get rid of these diseases as soon as possible and is great for home use.
- It is suitable for the prevention of influenza, SARS - lubricate the nasal mucosa with it before going outside and you will protect yourself from infection.
- Cocoa butter has no age restrictions in its use, it can be used to treat young children. This is a good natural alternative to cough drops - replace them with small pieces of oil, about 6 peas of the remedy per day. They must be dissolved in the mouth.
- Warm milk with honey will be even more effective if cocoa butter is added to it. Add a small piece of this substance and a couple of teaspoons of honey to warm milk. Stir the ingredients until they dissolve and drink warm. Young children can be given a tasty alternative to this healing mixture. Melt 1/4 bar of natural chocolate and a spoonful of cocoa butter in a water bath. Combine them with boiled warm milk 0.5l. Give the medicine a quarter cup at a time.
- The folk method of treating atherosclerosis is also based on the use of cocoa butter. It must be taken 15 minutes before breakfast and before dinner, half a teaspoon. This will remove excess cholesterol from the body.
- The product is a good choleretic agent. With cholecystitis, they use 1 tablespoon of melted butter on an empty stomach and go to bed, placing a heating pad under their right side for about one and a half to two hours.
- In gynecology, cocoa butter is used to treat cervical erosion. A teaspoon of the product is mixed with 10 drops of sea buckthorn oil and a tampon is soaked with this mixture, which is used at night. The procedure is carried out daily for 2-3 weeks.
Cocoa butter: properties and applications in cosmetology
Cocoa butter, properties and application in cosmetology - The composition includes fatty acids and esters of glycerol, it contains many useful amino acids. It is often added to cosmetics to prolong their shelf life.
In cosmetology, most users are satisfied with the results
- Anti-cellulite and antioxidant properties - oil softens and moisturizes the skin, regenerates its cells and smoothes wrinkles. It gives it elasticity and elasticity, helps to preserve youth and beauty.
- Wound healing and anti-inflammatory - protection from sunlight and help with burns. The substance saves from burning and itching, eliminates redness and swelling.
- Soothing and toning - massage using this product helps to cope with stress. It relaxes muscles and calms the body, has a beneficial effect on work nervous system helps with insomnia.
- Revitalizing and nourishing - nourishes the skin with useful substances, restores the structure of damaged hair. Saturates dry and brittle hair, can be used in combination with other folk and cosmetic products. Butter enhances the effect of useful components contained in cosmetics.
Cocoa butter for face
Cocoa butter for the face is popular for its regenerating and softening properties. It is part of various anti-aging masks and creams and has a pleasant smell.
Application of cocoa butter for the face
A good cosmetic effect is achieved due to vitamin A and fatty acids. They stabilize the water-lipid balance, maintain tone, protect the skin of the face from various external factors. Cocoa butter helps to get rid of pigmentation and spider veins on the face
You can carry out cosmetic procedures using it at home.
- Use this recipe for wrinkled and dehydrated skin. Mix egg yolk with a teaspoon of liquid honey and a teaspoon of melted butter, add 10 drops of carrot and lemon juice. Apply the mask on your face for 10-15 minutes and rinse with warm water. To consolidate the effect - massage the skin with an ice cube.
- For all skin types, a universal mask with the addition of milk is suitable. Mix in a teaspoon of melted cocoa butter, whole milk and natural fruit juice. Apply the mixture for 10-15 minutes, then wash with cool water.
- For the skin around the eyes, you can use the oil in its pure form - it will not cause complications in the form of swelling and redness, and will help smooth out wrinkles. To achieve the best effect - combine it with peach, almond or sea buckthorn oil in a ratio of 1 to 2 and apply with light movements on the skin around the eyes.
- To cope with chapping and cracking of the lips - lubricate them with cocoa butter at night. It will protect the skin from winter frosts, soften and heal cracks in the corners of the lips.
cocoa butter for hair
Cocoa butter for hair is successfully used in cosmetology. It helps to restore damaged and brittle hair, acting on their structure from the inside. This is a great product for dry hair.
The product can be rubbed into the scalp by melting it in a water bath or used as a component for therapeutic masks.
The use of hair oil - enzymes heal each hair and make them healthy and beautiful
- Heat a tablespoon of cocoa butter and mix it with egg yolk. Add 1 tablespoon of kefir and burdock oil to the mixture. Massage the mask onto the scalp and spread over the entire length of the hair. Wrap them in cling film and wrap them in a towel. Wash your hair with warm water after one and a half to two hours. Apply the mask every three to four 2-3 weeks.
- Pour 2 tablespoons of rosemary into 100 ml of boiling water and leave for about an hour, then strain. Add 3 tablespoons of the melted product to the water and distribute the mixture through the hair. Wrap your head in a film for 2-3 hours, wash everything off with shampoo. The course lasts 2 weeks and consists of 10 procedures.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of cocoa butter and mix it with 1k1 burdock oil, add 5 drops of vitamins A and E there, essential oil grapefruit. Apply the mask to your hair and wash off after an hour and a half with warm water. Use it once or twice a week. The entire course is 10-15 masks.
cocoa butter for skin
Cocoa butter for the skin plays an important role in most of its regeneration processes.
Based on cocoa butter, creams and masks are made to nourish the skin of the face.
- It activates microcirculation and strengthens its capillaries. It protects the skin from overdrying and eliminates irritation, great for foot and hand skin care.
- Its intensive effect helps in the prevention of premature aging and prevents the appearance of stretch marks. Even with their presence - cocoa butter helps to cope with this problem. It smooths them out and makes them less noticeable.
- With weathering, frostbite and burns - the oil eliminates inflammation and wounds on the skin. They can lubricate jams on the lips and cracks on the heels - they will tighten many times faster. The use of the product will serve as a prevention of further damage.
- With dry hands and feet, rough skin of the elbows and knees - melted butter will moisturize and soften the skin, protect it from cracking and peeling. For greater effectiveness - it can be mixed 1d1 with olive oil and lubricate problem areas on the body with them.
- To protect exposed skin from exposure to ultraviolet radiation or strong wind with frost, you should use cocoa butter before going out or visiting the beach. The skin will not be weathered and frozen, and the tan will form an even, beautiful layer and last for a long time.
How to store cocoa butter?
Purchasing the product is quite easy. In small dosages, cosmetic oil is sold in pharmacies, and bulk goods can be bought in natural food stores or in the market.
Every product has optimal conditions storage
Another question is how to store cocoa butter?
- Thanks to the antioxidants in its composition, it will not go rancid and has a long shelf life of three to five years. Even if a light white coating forms on it, which often happens on chocolate, this does not mean that the product has deteriorated.
- The date of manufacture is still worth asking when buying a product, and also paying attention to whether it is a cosmetic oil or not. If so, then you can't eat it.
- It is best to store it in the refrigerator, in a tightly closed container. It is not necessary to place the product in the freezer. It will be harder to use and melt. Recommended storage conditions - a cool dark place, sealed dishes, temperature and humidity not higher than 18C and 75C, respectively.
Instruction
A high concentration of oleic acid helps to restore the lost functions of the walls of blood vessels, increase their elasticity, reduce the amount of cholesterol in the blood and normalize the protective functions of the skin epidermis. Palmic acid helps nutrients penetrate deeper into the skin, while tocopherols moisturize the skin and increase its ability to produce collagen. Polyphenols eliminate allergic reactions.
Cocoa butter is quite often used as a natural remedy. It is also effective in asthma. Lubrication of the nasal mucosa during periods of mass epidemics and influenza will reliably protect against infection. Its antiviral, expectorant and antibacterial properties allow it to be used as a prophylactic and therapeutic agent.
Massage of the chest and back with cocoa butter improves blood circulation, normalizes blood circulation, thus helping to cleanse the respiratory system from infection.
Cocoa butter is successfully used in the treatment of hair, it restores dry and brittle hair, strengthens it, nourishing the hair follicle. Already the first application of the mask with cocoa butter will restore silkiness and shine to the hair.
This oil is also widely used in face care products. It helps to eliminate age-related skin problems, softens and regenerates the skin, nourishes and maintains its tone, normalizing the water-lipid balance, and, in addition, protects against the harmful effects of the external environment. Also, cocoa butter effectively fights spider veins and pigmentation; in the cold season, it serves as a prophylactic against chapping of the skin of the face and lips.
Cocoa butter activates skin microcirculation, fights itching, redness and swelling on the skin, it moisturizes and gives it a healthier and more well-groomed appearance. It is used as a prophylactic against the appearance of stretch marks, and if there are defects, it helps to make them less noticeable. It is also known for its wound healing and anti-cellulite properties. Full body massage with cocoa butter, in addition to making the skin soft and velvety, relieves stress and normalizes sleep.
The use of cocoa butter reduces the risk of blood clots and blockage of blood vessels. It is also used for digestive disorders, fights constipation, hemorrhoids and gynecological diseases. A good result is its use in the treatment of tonsillitis and tuberculosis, as an anesthetic for burns. Applications with cocoa butter treat varicose veins, eczema, fungi. It is shown to the elderly as a prophylactic against atherosclerosis.
Whoever invented chocolate hardly imagined what kind of drug it would become for many. So much so that housewives even decide to cook. However, it can be difficult to buy all the ingredients for them, especially when it comes to cocoa butter. With what it is connected, it is difficult to say. But there are no unsolvable problems. You can always find the place where buy oil cocoa for home use. It remains only not to make a mistake in your choice and purchase a really high-quality product.
What is cocoa butter?
First of all, it is desirable to understand what this ingredient is and how it is obtained. Cocoa butter is a dense mass of pale cream color, which, when room temperature crumbles easily. But at 35-40 degrees it melts perfectly, and thanks to this property it can be used in cooking, pharmaceuticals and cosmetology. It is worth noting that poor quality cocoa butter is white, rancid, and crumbles heavily. It is better to refuse to use it.
However, many are not so much interested in where to buy cocoa butter, but how it is produced. In reality, everything is simple. trees are placed under pressure, and under pressure, the same oil begins to stand out from them. It is collected in boxes and allowed to cool completely at room temperature. Everything, it can already be used, for example, for the production of sweets. Why when cocoa beans are brown? Simply because it is oil.
Where is it applied?
Of course, it is primarily used in confectionery industry. Without cocoa butter, it is impossible to cook everything and sweets. Although, in order to reduce the cost of the finished product, many manufacturers began to use the equivalent of cocoa butter. After all, the question “where to buy cocoa butter?” is also important for them, and it is also cheaper. And if this is impossible or difficult, then why not replace it with something else?
The second most popular industry where cocoa butter is used is pharmaceuticals. Since already at 36 degrees it melts well, it is used in suppositories and creams. In addition, cocoa butter has wound healing properties, and therefore it is used to treat burns, skin rashes and heal small wounds (for example, on the lips). Because of the stearic and oleic acids it contains, it is used in medicines to help lower and control blood cholesterol levels.
And, of course, do not forget that cocoa butter has excellent cosmetic properties. Soap prepared on its basis has a more delicate texture and perfectly cleanses and softens problem skin. That is why home soap makers, like confectioners, are looking for where to buy cocoa butter. In the cosmetic industry, it is also used in the production of creams, shampoos, shower gels, and so on. All of them have a pleasant chocolate flavor as a bonus.
Looking for a store...
All this, of course, is wonderful, but is it possible to buy cocoa butter in Kyiv, Moscow and other cities without a preliminary order? Are there stores where it is sold not only in bulk, but also in small batches? Of course, due to low demand, it will not be possible to find it in a regular supermarket. However, do not immediately despair.
First, cocoa butter can be purchased in healthy or vegetarian diets. Their customers often prefer to cook even those products that can be easily found on the counter. So they can be sure of the quality of what they eat. And chocolate is no exception. In addition, other vegetarian dishes are prepared with the addition of cocoa butter.
Secondly, it is sold in stores selling natural cosmetics. However, it is necessary to clarify whether this cocoa butter can be eaten. This is due to the fact that fragrances could already be added to it. Often this is done in order to give products and flavor. But there is no longer such oil, you can just get poisoned. Perhaps these are all the options where to buy cocoa butter without pre-ordering.
In the Internet
However, the most common way to get a coveted jar is to visit a specialized online store. They have everything you need for home production chocolate - and even natural cocoa beans. Moreover, the order can be made both individually and in bulk.
However, you should immediately pay attention to the minimum amount of the parcel, how payment is made and where the issuance is carried out. Most online stores send cocoa butter by mail cash on delivery. However, it is better to buy where there are their own points of issue. This way you can ensure that the cocoa butter does not lose its properties along the way. In addition, you should pay attention to the cost and terms of delivery. It can, for example, be carried out by a courier to your home for an additional fee.
Popular manufacturers
Another question that torments all home chocolatiers is: "Which manufacturer makes the best cocoa butter?". "Kargil Gerkens" (Holland) is one of the market leaders that offers everything you need for home production of sweets. In addition, in terms of the "price - quality" ratio, their products can be attributed to one of the best. Although many are deterred by the seemingly high price tag.
Those who are just planning to make their first chocolate bar can choose from other, more budget-friendly offers. cocoa is also produced in factories in South America and Africa. Since most of the deliveries are carried out directly, the cost of the products will be somewhat cheaper. Although the best chocolatiers prefer to use products from European manufacturers.
Finally
Cocoa butter is a unique product that improves well-being without harming the figure. That is why a dark chocolate bar is included in the diet of pilots and astronauts. However, for this to be so, it must be only from natural ingredients. And this, unfortunately, does not apply to most modern confectionery products. That is why it falls under the prohibition of nutritionists.
Cacao butter is the fat that is squeezed out of cocoa beans or grated cocoa powder. This product is the main ingredient for the manufacture of confectionery products. Cocoa butter has a whitish-yellow hue and is firm but brittle in texture. The product has a characteristic aroma that cannot be confused with anything - the smell of chocolate.
After the discovery of America by Columbus, Europeans were able to learn about a plant unknown to that time. It was a tree with cocoa beans. The conquistadors who came to the lands of the Aztecs were greatly surprised by the wealth and grandeur of the palaces. But most of all, Europeans were struck by the fact that instead of money, the Aztecs used the fruits of the cocoa tree.
Since then times have changed. The demand for cocoa has skyrocketed. Confectioners and culinary specialists tried in various ways to bring liquid chocolate into a solid state, but they did not succeed.
Everything changed when, in 1825, Konrad van Heyten used a completely new technology as an experiment. He came up with the idea of separating cocoa bean butter not only by heating, but also by pressure. His experience was successful, and therefore, after only three years, the inventor announced his know-how to the whole world and was able to patent the hydraulic press. Therefore, people are indebted to van Hoyten for another discovery - a fat-free powder for the production of beverages, the production of which was put on stream. Based on this product, another, more significant one was discovered - cocoa butter.
This invention made it possible to mass-produce the favorite delicacy of both children and adults - chocolate. It was no longer considered a confection reserved only for kings and nobles. Now a completely simple person could afford to buy chocolate.
There are two types of this product: natural and deodorized cocoa butter, which is further processed. The product is usually used as a fatty base for the manufacture of chocolate products, cakes and various pastries, in pharmaceuticals and perfumery. Based on it, a variety of suppositories are prepared, medicinal oils and ointments. Cocoa butter has been widely used in cosmetology. It has a wound healing and tonic effect due to its special composition, which contains methylxanthine, tannin and caffeine. A cocoa-based product helps to effectively cope with a rash on the skin of the face, age spots, burns, coughs and SARS.
According to GOST, cocoa butter equivalents and substitutes must comply with the necessary standardized requirements and established standards. The organoleptic of the product must also comply with GOST.
Namely:
- product must have natural taste, without the presence of foreign taste or smell;
- at a temperature of 18 ⁰С, the shade of cocoa butter should be from snow-white to cream;
- the consistency of the product at the same temperature should be uniform, hard and prickly.
Based on this document, cocoa butter analogs and SOS-type product substitutes must be made from natural and fractionated butter. It can be modified or refined, with or without food additives and other components.
Upon reaching a temperature of 16 to 18 ° C, the product is able to maintain a solid structure. If it is heated, then cocoa butter will become like a fatty oily substance. The product is able to soften in human hands. Natural cocoa butter is a balanced delicacy that can not only provide gastronomic pleasure, but also have a therapeutic effect. Moreover, the cocoa product has a positive effect both on individual parts of the body and on the whole organism as a whole.
By palatability the natural product is quite pleasant and has a chocolate flavor. It can soften and “lubricate” a sore throat. Therefore, this product is useful to give in order to treat coughs for both children and adults.
About what other properties cocoa butter has, you can read in the next section of the article.
The composition and useful properties of cocoa butter
In the context of this article, we will dwell in more detail on the composition and beneficial properties of cocoa butter.
Cocoa butter and products based on it are very high-calorie products, so they must be eaten in limited quantities.
Nutritional value of 100 grams of product:
- fats - 99.8 grams;
- water - 0.01 grams.
Calorie content - 899 kilocalories per 100 grams of product.
Ingredients of cocoa butter:
Oleic and stearic acid. The third part of the fats in the product is stearic acid, which prevents the formation of "bad" cholesterol in the blood. Another third was occupied by oleic acid, which reduces the content of this substance. The main feature of this product is that cocoa solids contain antioxidant substances that can activate the immune functions of the human body. Oleic acid, contained in large quantities in cocoa beans, helps to normalize the weakened functions of the vascular system, increase vascular flexibility, lower cholesterol and completely cleanse the blood. Due to its emollient effect, this substance can improve the condition of the skin.
palmitic acid. This substance is able to increase the entry of nutrients into the human body. Palmitic acid is also found in breast milk, and it is known to be very beneficial for babies.
Vitamins of groups A, B, C, E and F. Vitamins of group A are the most important fat-soluble substances that can affect the condition of the skin, mucous membranes and vision. Vitamin B is involved in the process of growth and repair of cells and tissues. Vitamin C has the property of moisturizing and boosting collagen production. If a person has a lack of vitamin C, then this can lead to lethargy and anemia. Tocopherol (vitamin E) is a very important vitamin with numerous functions in the human body. It may also act as an antioxidant, which helps protect the body from toxins and poisons such as lactic acid. Vitamin E is very useful in neurosis and anemia.
Polyphenols. These substances help to increase the production of immunoglobulin, eliminate various allergic reactions, rashes and dermatitis. Polyphenols have a positive effect on the process of fat metabolism. They consist of plant pigments that are present in the product. The main advantage of these substances is that they are able to degrease heavy food, in which there is too much fat.
With frequent use of a cosmetic product based on cocoa butter, it can have a positive effect on the condition of any type of skin without causing allergies. This product can even soften the skin of a baby. Cocoa butter for the body and face can even out and heal some skin defects (stretch marks, burns, age spots, scars, eczema and dermatitis).
Due to the rich composition of minerals such as Ca, Fe, Mg, Cr and I, cocoa butter can be used for therapeutic and preventive purposes in various diseases. It can be a heart attack, slow blood circulation in the brain, atherosclerosis, allergic reactions, varicose veins, stomach ulcers and cancer.
According to the results of studies by scientists from Latin America, it was found that the frequent use of this product in food (from 5 to 10 years) will reduce the risk of malignant tumors by 15 times. The British found that cocoa butter is great for coughing, even more effective than some medications. A positive result is achieved due to the natural theobromine contained in it, which has a very delicate effect on the throat. This component is much faster than synthetic drugs, it is able to cope even with a strong cough without causing side effects.
For which diseases is it useful to use the product:
- Cough. It is very easy to prepare a cough remedy based on cocoa butter at home. To do this, a small spoonful of the product is diluted with a glass of warm milk, mixed thoroughly, and then drunk. If such a mixture is taken 2-3 times during the day, then in a short time there will be no trace of coughing.
- Colds. It is useful to use such a product for ARVI, bronchitis, pneumonia and bronchial asthma. To enhance the effect of treatment, patients with bronchial asthma can additionally undergo a course of chest massage using cocoa butter as a rubbing. This procedure will speed up the course of the disease. In the season of colds and outbreaks of various epidemics, as a preventive measure, you can protect yourself and your loved ones by lubricating your nose with cocoa butter from the inside. This procedure will help soften and protect the mucosa from the penetration of bacteria and viruses, since almost all infections are transmitted through the air.
- Tuberculosis, pneumonia or tonsillitis. In the presence of these diseases, it is necessary to take cocoa butter inside, after melting it in a water bath, to which a little crushed propolis is added. If you take the remedy 2-3 times a day, then the course of the disease will pass much faster and easier.
- Atherosclerosis. With a similar disease, it is advisable to take a cocoa product on an empty stomach, in the morning and in the evening 15 minutes before meals. Cocoa butter will help to remove accumulated "bad" cholesterol from the patient's body before it is deposited on the walls of blood vessels.
See the next section for other uses for cocoa butter products.
Application in cosmetology
In modern cosmetology, this product is used in many products. It can be:
- Lotions and body gels.
- Masks for hair and face.
- Balms for hair and lips.
- Scrubs.
- Creams for hands, skin around the eyes, stretch marks and wrinkles.
In fact, the list is quite extensive. We have only listed the most requested funds. The use of cosmetics is necessary depending on the type of skin.
Who can use these tools:
- with combination and aging skin, a special mask based on cocoa butter with grape seed oil and aloe juice will help to normalize the condition of the skin;
- for oily skin, as a daily care, a face cream with cocoa butter, almond and rapeseed oils is suitable;
- for sensitive skin, you can use a cream with cocoa butter, to which a few drops of sunflower and essential oils are added, as well as rose tea tincture.
If you need to strengthen your hair, reduce hair loss or add shine to curls, then you can purchase a special mask with a cocoa product. If the hair falls out very much, then it is advisable to make a mask by adding a little burdock oil, kefir and raw yolk to it. Useful composition means will help strengthen and restore split ends, dry and brittle hair. A natural product will help nourish the hair roots with vitamins and minerals from the inside. After applying the mask, the curls will smell pleasantly of chocolate. In addition, long hair will become much easier to comb and will look beautiful, and will also acquire incredible shine literally from the first time.
This product is used to protect the skin of the face from exposure to cold. If there is frost or strong wind outside, then 15-20 minutes before leaving the room, it is necessary to apply a special cream to the skin of the face. There is also a tool that can protect the face from ultraviolet rays. The product is especially relevant to those people who are going on vacation to the seaside. They must be used in the same way as in the previous case. This procedure will ensure an even tan and prevent burns.
As a care for lips and eyelids, cocoa butter, which can be mixed with almond or sesame oil, will serve as an excellent tool. In addition, this tool can strengthen and accelerate the growth of eyebrows and eyelashes.
In fact, there are a fairly large number of special body, face and hair care products that you can buy in the store, or you can make yourself at home.
In the winter season, cocoa-based products come in handy. This product can protect the skin of the face and lips from chapping. Cocoa butter is also able to heal wounds: it can be used to treat small wounded areas and lips that are chapped in the cold. To do this, before going to bed, it is necessary to lubricate the corners or cracks of the lips with the product, as well as the wounded area.
With the help of this product, you can enhance the process of blood circulation, strengthen the walls of blood vessels, eliminate itching, redness, burning and swelling. If you generously lubricate the skin with oil, then this procedure will help relieve irritation, make the skin on the hands and body even softer and give it a velvety feel.
You can use a special cream based on cocoa butter to tighten the skin around the eyes. When using the product, the skin in this area is nourished, moisturized and softened. After that, the process of smoothing fine wrinkles around the eyes takes place. Cocoa butter is an absolutely hypoallergenic product, unable to cause redness and swelling. For this reason, it can be used in its natural form without dilution. If you make mixtures with various oils yourself, such as almond, peach or sea buckthorn, then you will get a good face and body care product. The cocoa butter product must be preheated in a water bath, and then diluted with any of the oils in a ratio of 1:2, respectively.
The product also takes great care of the feet. Cocoa product is able to protect the human body from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays, from which the skin on the body becomes too dry. After using cocoa butter, the skin condition noticeably improves, and it looks younger and well-groomed.
If this product is used as a prophylactic, then it is possible to prevent the formation of stretch marks even at the stage of pregnancy. If measures were not taken in time and postpartum folds remained on the body, then the cocoa product will help get rid of small stretch marks and make them less noticeable. It can be used as a massage oil.
And cocoa butter will help solve the problem of nipple cracks in young mothers who are breastfeeding a baby. For this procedure, it is only necessary to treat the nipples with the product in between feedings. Cocoa butter absolutely does not harm the health of mom and her baby. Therefore, even if a small dose of the product enters the stomach during feeding, it will not harm him.
In gynecology, this component is also an indispensable thing. It is used to eliminate erosion on the cervix. Only this procedure must be agreed with the attending physician. If the doctor has given permission, then a tampon is dipped into this product and inserted into the vagina before going to bed. To achieve a positive result, the procedure must be repeated every night for ten days.
This is not the whole list of useful properties of the product. For more information on where else cocoa butter is used, see the next section.
Use in cooking
Many people know that cocoa butter is most often used in cooking for the production of chocolate products.
In order to get sweets or chocolate, the raw materials must be melted in a water bath, adding cocoa beans and sugar in equal proportions. Sometimes manufacturers use carob instead of cocoa, and honey instead of granulated sugar. It all depends on the recipe and the standards that the manufacturer adheres to. Each confectionery factory uses different ingredients: spices, nuts, dried fruits, coconut flakes, candied fruits, fruit fillers and berries. Cocoa butter is used as the basis for the preparation of icing, which is covered with all kinds of confectionery: biscuits, cakes, cupcakes, pastries, rolls and other baked goods.
In addition, cocoa butter is good ingredient for salads, cereals, seafood dishes, home baking, chocolate, creams or glazes for confectionery and desserts. This supplement is sold in a specialized store, or it can be ordered online.
Contraindications and harm
However, confectioners do not always add real cocoa butter to chocolate. Instead of natural product manufacturers can put in confectionery its analogue - hydrogenated palm, soy, rapeseed or cottonseed oil. Such substitutes are of great harm to human health, because all these products are composed of trans fats.
Cocoa butter is very high in calories. Therefore, people who are prone to overweight and overweight, as well as people who strictly monitor their diet and calories, need to eat this product in small doses.
If cocoa butter is natural, then in rare cases it can cause allergic reactions. It can be eaten by both children and adults. Although there are exceptions.
Contraindications for use:
- individual intolerance to the product;
- neurosis;
- insomnia.
Another controversial issue is the use of cocoa butter during pregnancy. The opinions of doctors are divided: some argue that this product is incapable of harming both the expectant mother and the fetus, while others, on the contrary, believe that during childbearing it is worth limiting the consumption of this harmless, but still allergen. In any case, it is up to you to decide whether to include this product in the diet during pregnancy or not. It is worth consulting with your doctor and getting the appropriate recommendation in this regard.
Remember that it is undesirable to use cocoa butter before bedtime, as it can cause insomnia and increased excitability. After a person has eaten chocolate products in which cocoa butter is present, at least 3-4 hours must pass before he goes to bed.
Storage
The storage of cocoa butter also has its own secrets, which we will share with you.
What are they:
- store the product in a dark place with good air circulation;
- the packaging in which cocoa butter is located must be airtight;
- the optimal storage temperature should not exceed 18 ⁰ C at a relative humidity of not more than 75%;
- it is permissible to store the product on the refrigerator door;
- under proper conditions, cocoa products can be stored for three to five years.
As you can see, the shelf life of the product is not so short, if the storage conditions are correctly observed. This is due to the presence of antioxidants in cocoa butter, which prevent the product from becoming rancid. And yet, before buying chocolates made using cocoa butter, or a cosmetic product based on this component, always pay attention to the production date.
