The diversity of coffee

Germans consume an average of 166 liters of coffee per year. Warmth, love and tranquility are just a few of the adjectives associated with it. Originally the evergreen coffee bush comes from the southwestern mountain forests of Ethiopia. Today, mainly Arabica and Robusta are used for production. Much rarer are also Lierica and Excelsa. The coffee bush (Coffea arabica) reaches a height of up to six meters. The first yields can be expected after three to four years. The ripe fruits turn purple-black and can then be picked. They are then either rinsed, fermented and dried, or dried for five weeks immediately after harvest. In both methods, the pulp and skins of the bean come off, leaving the bean itself ready for roasting

The taste spectrum of coffee ranges from dark chocolate and caramelized hazelnuts to fruity wild berries or floral notes such as jasmin. This makes coffee not only a wonderful counterpart to desserts (e.g. in granola, cakes, as coffee syrup with ice cream, etc.), but also adds that certain something to spicy dishes. As a sauce or marinade, coffee goes excellently with fine filet or a healthy vegetable pan. Smoothies also get a great flavor nuance. Another use of coffee is that of coffee extract. This is extracted from roasted coffee beans rather than green ones, as is usually the case, which means that it loses toxicity, making it ideal for the food industry. Pralines, liqueurs, ice cream, cakes or baked goods can be refined with it. The uses of coffee extract as a flavoring are endless. Another highlight of the food industry is coffee bean oil. This is also extracted from roasted beans and can be used in desserts as well as for flavoring main dishes.

Coffee is also used extensively in the cosmetics industry. Especially the circulation-promoting effect of the contained caffeine has a positive effect on our cells, as they supply them with oxygen and nutrients. This stimulates cell renewal and other active ingredients can be better absorbed. In addition, the breakdown of fat cells is stimulated and supported, which is why coffee is often used as an ingredient in creams and lotions against cellulite. Coffee also supports the flushing out of stored water. This makes the skin appear firmer and plumper. This effect is exploited above all in products for the eye area. Puffiness and bags under the eyes, which are caused by accumulated lymph fluid, can be better removed by the caffeine contained in coffee.

Cold-pressed coffee extract in particular is being used more and more frequently in the cosmetics industry. The intense coffee aroma can be used in many ways for perfuming. Many associate the scent with rest and time out, but also the exact opposite – namely, a scent that makes you directly awake. Finally, in addition to aromatherapy, coffee extract also contains caffeine, which is said to have a positive effect on the blood circulation of the skin. It is therefore often used in firming creams against dark circles or in anti-cellulite care. In combination with other active ingredients, coffee extract is also used in lip care to create both a pleasant fragrance and a boosting effect.

Coffee bean oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, phytosterols and triglycerides. With the contained phytosterols, the oil provides the skin with moisture and also boosts the metabolism and cell renewal. The caffeine content is also said to promote blood circulation and is therefore predestined for use in anti-cellulite and anti-aging care. Wrinkles and bags under the eyes can be reduced as a result. In addition, the caffeine contained is said to support hair growth, which is why it is often used in shampoos and tinctures.