, serves as a nutritional supplement and contains high levels of omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) along with high levels of vitamin A and vitamin D. It is known to ease the symptoms of arthritis as well as other potential health benefits. Earlier it was recommended to children in order to prevent rickets due to the presence of high levels of vitamin D in Cod liver oil.
The quality of the oil decides the flavor and aroma which may range from a mild sardine line flavor to an intense odor of fish and oil. Characteristics of high quality Cod liver oil displays pale yellow, thin, oily liquid and have a little fishy and bland taste. In order to make it more palatable, manufacturers sometimes add flavorings such as citrus or mint essence to the Cod liver oil.
The traditional manufacturing method of the same was by filling a wooden barrel with fresh cod livers and seawater while allowing the mixture to ferment for up to a year before removing the oil while the modern method is to cook the whole cod body tissues of fatty fish during the fish meal manufacturing.
Cod liver oil is known to ease the pain and joint stiffness of arthritis and also has a positive effect on heart, brain and bone while nourishing the skin, hair, nails and teeth.
The Cod liver oil is high in vitamin D which is essential for people living in cold countries since in the months of cold they do not get much exposure to the sun in order to make vitamin D.
Although similar to fish oil but Cod liver oil have higher levels of vitamins A and D and due to the high vitamin content it is effective in the treatment of household burns.