Coconut oil has been a staple in various cultures as food, medicine and a source of fuel for centuries. In many tropical countries, it’s been a staple in their diet for over 4,000 years.
It’s celebrated for its versatility, numerous health benefits, and it’s culinary magic. Coconut oil has earned a reputation as a superfood and a nourishing oil for your skin & hair. It’s variety of properties makes it a must-have in your daily routine and in your kitchen pantry.
Coconut oil is a solid at about 77deg F and below and will become a clear thin liquid at warmer temps. You can buy an MCT oil that stays liquid at most temps. It’s made with a concentration of Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) from more than one source. Most MCT oil is made by refining coconut or palm oil to create a pure concentration of MCT oil. For the benefits we list here, the regular coconut oil works just fine.
Every day uses for coconut oil.
Here are some good ways you can apply this to your everyday life along with the whys and the benefits that you can get from it.
1. Nourishing Skin Moisturizer
One of the most well-known uses of coconut oil is its ability to moisturize and hydrate the skin. It is rich in fatty acids, particularly lauric acid, which easily penetrates the skin and forms a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and keeping the skin soft and supple. Whether you have dry, sensitive, or normal skin, coconut oil can work wonders in nourishing and revitalizing your skin, leaving it with a healthy glow.
2. Hair Repair and Conditioning
If you’re struggling with frizzy, damaged, or dull hair, coconut oil can be a game-changer. When applied to the hair, it helps to reduce protein loss, which can happen for various reasons such as heat and environmental damage. By nourishing the hair shaft and scalp, it promotes hair health, enhances shine, and tames unruly curls and using it as a pre-shampoo treatment or a leave-in conditioner can yield impressive results over time.
3. Coconut oil as a Natural Makeup Remover
Commercial makeup removers may contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin or leave a greasy residue. But coconut oil is a gentle and effective makeup remover. Its oily texture dissolves makeup, even waterproof products, while moisturizing the skin and promoting a radiant complexion.
Simply apply a small amount of the oil to a cotton pad and gently cleanse your face to remove makeup without any harsh rubbing. Then if you feel the need, use a warm washcloth to remove any excess oil.
4. Heart-Healthy Fats
Contrary to the misconceptions about saturated fats, they’re not all created equal. Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of healthy fat that can contribute to improved heart health. MCTs are efficiently metabolized, providing a quick source of energy. Using moderate amounts of coconut oil in a balanced diet can be a smart choice if your trying to improve their heart health.
5. Coconut Oil for your Teeth and Mouth
There’s some research out there they shows it may help to decrease plaque buildup on your teeth and reduce inflammation. This can help fight to gum disease. I use it every morning to brush my teeth for it’s antibacterial properties and it’s been recommended for oil pulling for ages. It’s been used to whiten teeth, reduce bad breath and improve gum health largely because of those antibacterial properties.
Bottom Line
Coconut oil’s versatility and numerous benefits have made it a true winner for use in natural remedies and wellness.
From nourishing your skin and hair to supporting heart health and boosting your immune system, this gift of nature has a wide range of uses.
Like everything, moderation is key. If a some is good, a lot might cause problems with unwanted effects due to its high calorie and fat content.
Incorporating coconut oil into your daily routine can be as simple as adding it to your cooking, using it as a moisturizer or hair treatment, using it on your toothbrush or as the oil for oil pulling or even blending it into your smoothies.
On top of everything else, it really tastes pretty good, as oils go. Give it a try and see what you think. Embrace this natural treasure and unlock the potential of coconut oil to enhance your well-being, beauty, and overall health.
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Love all this sage advice! I put a tablespoon of coconut oil in Frodo’s breakfast. I used it with my chocolate Lab as well. Great for their skin.
Yes, it’s really great for their skin and coats. And they love it!! And thanks, I’m glad you’re enjoying the information. I enjoy putting it out.