Virgin coconut oil (VCO) is the purest form of coconut oil, extracted from fresh coconut meat without refining, bleaching, or deodorizing. This process preserves its natural aroma, flavor, and nutrients, making it a popular choice for cooking, skincare, and haircare. 
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Unrefined Nature:
Unlike regular coconut oil, VCO is unrefined, meaning it doesn't go through bleaching or deodorizing processes. 
Nutrient Retention:
Because it's not refined, VCO retains its natural antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids, which are believed to have numerous health benefits. 
Benefits:
VCO is often touted for its potential benefits for heart health, skin health, and immunity. It's also a popular ingredient in cooking, skincare, and haircare products. 
Distinction from Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil:
While both are extracted without heat, "cold-pressed" coconut oil can refer to oil extracted from copra (dried coconut) using a pressing method, whereas "virgin" coconut oil is specifically extracted from fresh coconuts. 
Extraction Process:
VCO is typically made by cold-pressing fresh coconut meat or using a wet-milling process. This method avoids heat and chemicals, which can degrade the oil's quality.