Coconut oil is extracted from the meat of matured coconuts. Over the past decades, people frowned upon the use of coconut oil thinking it wasn’t healthy to consume. But in recent years, with more studies and evidence about the benefits of coconut oil, the consumption of it has become popular. And rightfully so.
When you learn about the benefits of this wonder oil. You’ll fall in love with it. And don’t be scared just because you heard the world oil. Coconut oil is actually one of the healthiest fats out there.
Coconut oil contains 47% lauric acid. Our body converts lauric acid into monolaurin which has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. This helps boost your immune system and prevents you from diseases like herpes, flu, and measles among others.
Aside from these benefits, here are ten more reasons why you should love coconut oil.
1. Dental Health.
Oil pulling improves overall dental health with the added benefit of whiter teeth. If you’re new to oil pulling here’s a quick tutorial:
This sounds strange, but “oil pulling” with coconut oil daily helps to remineralize (make stronger) your teeth. It also whitens them. Simply put a tsp of coconut oil under the tongue and swish back and forth between lower teeth & around mouth for 15 min daily. This is a cool way to eliminate toxins as well.
Before breakfast, swish 1-2 tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth. Do this for 20 minutes. The timing is important because it has to be long enough to kill bacteria. But not too long for you to re-absorb these bacteria. After 20 minutes, spit it out. Brush and rinse well.
Tip: If you’re not comfortable with the smell or texture of oil in your mouth, try starting at 1 tablespoon.
2. Relief from Eczema and Psoriasis
Coconut oil provides long lasting relief for people suffering from eczema and psoriasis. Simply use coconut oil as your lotion.
Tip: Apply coconut oil at night before you go to sleep. Cell regeneration happens at night while you sleep so take advantage of it.
3. Hair Care/Growth
Massage coconut oil on your hair and scalp for healthy hair growth. It also gives an instant sheen to your hair. And because coconut oil has anti-fungal properties, it can heal dandruff.
Tip: Mix 2 parts of water, 1 part coconut oil and 1/2 castor oil. Add some drops of essential oils if you like. Instant hair mist! Just remember to shake well before using.
4. Weight Loss
Coconut oil increases the body’s metabolic rate leading to weight loss.
Tip: Try mixing coconut oil in your smoothies, tea or even your coffee!
5. Digestion
Coconut oil contains saturated fats that have anti-microbial properties that help in proper digestion.
Tip: Instead of vegetable oils and other hydrogenated cooking oils, use coconut oil instead to cook or fry your favorite food.
6. Skin care
Even if you don’t have skin problems like eczema or psoriasis, you will definitely benefit from coconut oil if you incorporate it in your skin regimen. Use it as your body lotion for a more supple and moisturized skin. And yes, you can use it on your face. Coconut oil also contains a natural SPF of 4.
Tip: Streth marks? Try mixing shea butter with coconut oil and apply it on your tummy regularly.
7. Reduces the appearance of varicose veins
Varicose veins can be troublesome and sometimes painful.
Tip: When you go to sleep, apply coconut oil and wear socks.
8. Helps prevent Alzheimer’s disease
All the more reason to love coconut oil. The fatty acid in coconut oil are converted into ketones, which can improve cognitive function.
Tip: Aim for 2-4 tablespoons of coconut oil every day. But start with a teaspoon to allow your body to adjust.
9. Increase milk supply for nursing moms
A lot of moms resort to giving formulas to their newborn because they just can’t produce enough milk. Use in place of Lanolin & other creams to care for painful, chapped nips.
Steer clear of the bio-oil & other not-so-great oils. Stick with all natural, virgin coconut oil. It has a really pleasant smell, and it works wonders for keeping your skin nice and taught.
Tip: Taking three to four tablespoons a day can increase milk supply.
10. Natural deodorant & Lubricant
Coconut oil prevents body odor because of its anti-fungal properties.
Yeah, you heard me right. Coconut Oil serves as an excellent sex lube. It has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, so it’s good for not disrupting the natural flora of your hoo-ha. Beware, though, it is not latex compatible, so if you’re using latex condoms, stick to a water based lube instead.
Tip: Apply a think layer of coconut oil in your underarm before going to bed. A gentle deo and moisturizer in one.
While we have all the reasons to love coconut oil, if you’re allergic to it DO NOT consume or apply it on your skin.
Also, if you eat coconut oil, start at one teaspoon at first and gradually increase as you get used to the taste. This will also help your body adjust as it can cause stomach upset if you suddenly consume it in quantities more than your body is used to.
It’s also best to use extra virgin or virgin coconut oil if you want to consume it internally. If using it externally or for cooking, it’s good to use refined coconut oil because it’s tasteless and odorless.
So next time you see coconut oil in the supermarket, give it a try. Your body will thank you for it.
Have you tried consuming coconut oil? Tell us about your experience.
Credit: Joy Collado (@JoyCollado) is a freelance writer. She loves writing about health and beauty and makeup.
H/T : goweloveit