Coconut oil is no doubt one of the most famous oils in the world. Thanks to its multi-usage, the use of coconut oil goes beyond just cooking. We can use it on our skin, on our hair, and of course in our cooking, which in return, provide bountiful of benefits.
According to the British Nutrition Foundation,
Coconut oil can be included in the diet, but as it is high in saturated fats, it should only be included in small amounts and as part of a healthy balanced diet,
Use coconut oil as a DIY hair mask, facial cleanser, lip scrub, and many more. Here, we put together the benefits of coconut oil from head to toe, only for you.
Benefits of Coconut Oil on Skin
1. “Get off Microorganisms!”
Coconut oil that is rich in saturated fat and medium-chain fatty acids have antimicrobial properties that effectively protect the skin against microorganisms.
By applying this oil directly onto the skin may prevent the growth of the microorganisms that are causing acne, cellulitis, and other skin infections.
2. A natural anti-inflammatory agent.
Based on animal studies as stated in Healthline, coconut oil shows great potential as an anti-inflammatory agent by improving antioxidant status and decreasing oxidative stress.
3. Moisturize dry skin.
Regular use of coconut oil help to moisturize your skin and also reduce eczema severity. A well-hydrated skin help to preserve the skin barrier against bacteria, as well as promote the elasticity of the skin.
4. Skin healing properties.
Coconut oil helps in treating wounds, burns, and dermatitis. The anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce inflammation under the skin thus, promote better healing.
5. Clean your makeup.
Thanks to some of the properties as mentioned above, coconut oil also effectively cleanse the make-up. Try the double-cleansing method and use coconut oil as the first step.
Simply rub the oil on your dry face and neck. Then slowly add in water to cleanse the makeup and wash it off. Continue with your gentle face wash as the second step and walla – your face is clear from all the dirt, dust and makeup!
Coconut oil for Hair
1. Protect against hair damage.
According to a study, coconut oil was found to protect against hair damage compared to sunflower oil and mineral oil, when used as a pre-wash and post-wash grooming product.
2. Act as a Sunscreen!
Though it may not be a ‘strong’ one, coconut oil may work as a weak sunscreen by blocking 20% of the harmful UV rays.
3. Tame Frizzy Hair
Coconut oil can be used to tame your frizzy hair. Rub a small amount of coconut oil in between your fingers and run through your hair. It leaves your hair looking polished and adds shine to your hair as well!
4. Deep Conditioning
Coconut oil is good to use as a natural and deep conditioner for your hair. If you notice, some hair conditioner contains coconut oil as part of the ingredients. This is because coconut oil can easily penetrate the strands and help to prevent protein loss.
5. Minimize Dandruff
Coconut oil can help reduce the level of yeast that is causing inflammation, itching, and flaking that are also associated with dandruff. Heat the oil for a few minutes (make sure it is not too hot) and then massage it onto your scalp gently. Let it sits for 30minutes and then wash your hair with shampoo.
Benefits of Coconut Oil for our Health
1. The Good Fat in Cooking
When we cook, the heat, along with light and oxygen, can destroy the beneficial fats in some oils. Coconut oil is mainly saturated fat, in which it is able to withstand the higher temperatures than the other oils. Thus, making it one of the best oils for cooking.
It also gives a delicious taste and superb texture to foods. Use organic extra-virgin coconut oil for the best quality.
2. Rich in Lauric Acid
Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid. This fatty acid in coconut oil can kill harmful bacteria, viruses and fungi. It could potentially help to prevent infections in our body.
Fun fact: Coconut oil is the richest source of lauric acid, after breastmilk!
3. Helps in Digestion
The thick concentration of beneficial fats in coconut oil makes it helpful in our digestion. It also appears to be especially effective at reducing belly fat! Now that’s a natural remedy to get back your S-line mommies!
4. Improves our Heart Health
Coconut oil can also help in improving our heart’s health. Based on a research conducted on 116 coronary artery disease patients, it was observed that a diet rich in extra virgin coconut oil led to an increase in good cholesterol levels (HDL cholesterol) and decrease in bad cholesterol levels (LDL cholesterol). However, it is advisable for us to keep on track with our cholesterol level regularly. If our cholesterol level is increasing, it is better for us to stop or cut down on it!
5. Stronger Teeth!
Many research studies suggest that the use of oil pulling is very effective against various dental issues. Based on a study titled “Oil pulling for maintaining oral hygiene – A review”, oil pulling using coconut oil helps to remove the plaque building bacteria which causes dental caries, gingivitis, periodontitis and bad breath. Thus, our gums become pink, healthier, and bleeding gums is solved!
Indeed, there is a lot of usage and benefits of coconut oil in our daily routines. You can use it on the skin, on your hair and of course, a good alternative for your cooking. For a start, you may try this simple recipe courtesy of Chef Obie.
Smoke Beef with Butter Prawn
The ingredients:
- 500mg Smoke beef
- 300mg Prawn
- 2 tsp Coconut oil
- 2 tsp Butter
- 4-5 cloves of minced Garlic
- 2 sprigs Curry leaves
- 5 stalks of Chilli
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1/2 cup of Evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup of water
- Salt and sugar to taste
Steps
- Preheat the coconut oil and melt the butter. When the oil is hot, add in the minced garlic, curry leaves and the prawn. Briefly cook all three ingredients over high heat.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of water and 1/2 cup of evaporated milk. Next, add in the smoke beef and let it slightly boiling.
- Chop some chillies and sprinkle some black pepper, if desired. Taste with sugar and salt.
- Your Smoke Beef with Butter Prawn is now ready to be served!
You can now cook this healthier, mouth-watering smoke beef and prawns at your comfy home. Starting from today onwards, try to use coconut oil in your cooking.
Aside from being one of the best oils for cooking, it also gives a delicious taste and superb texture to your foods!
- What are the benefits of coconut oil on our skin?
– Prevent the growth of the microorganisms that causing acne, cellulitis, and other skin infections.
– Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent.
– Moisturize dry skin.
– Helps to heal wounds and burns.
– Clean the makeup effectively.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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