Is this one product the world’s most magical, multi-functional health food? Maybe. This coconut oil can be used for a myriad of uses which may surprise you. Those who know me know I absolutely love coconut oil due to its versatile uses and nutritional benefits.
Coconut oil is absolutely amazing as it is truly natural and free of chemicals, and can be used as part of a beauty regime and in the kitchen for cooking. Personally, I use coconut oil every day in cooking and on my skin. I have no problems with acne or dry skin and find this is a great addition to natural skincare. It has become a part of a daily habit, and some might say I am a little obsessed!
Reported Benefits of Coconut Oil
- Antiviral, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.
- Primarily saturated fat (over 90%), with the bulk of it coming from lauric acid, a medium chain saturated fatty acid; which means it’s incredibly heat-stable – perfect for high heat cooking. Not all saturated fats are as bad as they are reported in the media. Some saturated fats occur naturally, while other fats are artificially manipulated into a saturated state through the man-made process called hydrogenation. Coconut oil is natural and has been a nutritious diet staple for thousands of years in many traditional cultures.
- Great for on the skin and hair care.
- Improves digestion, and improves calcium and magnesium absorption.
- A natural healer to reduce inflammation.
- Promotes the loss of excess fat by increasing metabolic rate.
- It improves thyroid function in people with hypothyroidism (thyroid deficiency resulting in a low metabolic rate).
- The body can use coconut oil for energy more rapidly and efficiently than most other fat sources. The fats in coconut oil are claimed to not normally store in the body as fat. If true, this would make coconut oil great for fat loss as they are quickly converted to energy.
- It is a great source of energy – forget the high sugar drinks!
5 Uses of Coconut Oil
This is a very short list when there are many more uses for this wonderful natural product. These are my top 5 uses for coconut oil:
1. Moisturiser
A little goes along way! Rub a little coconut oil on to your skin; you will notice how little you need to apply to an area. As a moisturiser it is very hydrating and is not oily on the skin. It will absorb into the skin with only a slight scent of coconut. To get started go apply to your face or hands to see how it compares to shop bought lotions.
2. Eye make-up remover
It is fantastic at removing eye make-up. Again a little goes along way here, all you need to do is add a little to a cotton ball and remove the make-up. Be amazed at how easily it removes mascara!
3. Cooking
Due its composition as a medium chain triglyceride (MCT) it is incredibly heat stable which makes coconut oil a fantastic cooking oil for roasting, pan frying, sautéing and baking. Do not worry, your food will not taste purely of coconuts!
4. Skin healer
Coconut oil works wonders for insect bites or mild burns. If you catch your hand whilst cooking, run your hand under cold water first, and then once the initial heat has gone, rub a little oil onto the area. It will help to reduce any stinging or inflammation from an insect. It can help with dry skin and irritation.
5. Smoothie booster
Add 1 to 2 teaspoons to a smoothie for extra energy, nutrition and flavour! Some people even enjoy adding 1 teaspoon to tea or coffee.
Tip: The best option is to choose an unrefined virgin coconut oil, as it is closest to its natural state. It should have a scent of coconut.
What is your favourite way to use coconut oil? Do you use it for anything that’s not on this list? Leave a comment below!
Enjoy one of nature’s finest products!
Rebecca is a personal trainer and health & wellness coach who is passionate about helping women to feel healthy, happy and LOVE life. As a coach with a huge passion for vegan nutrition, holistic health, enjoying exercise and self care, Rebecca is on a mission to help women thrive!
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