Coconut oil is one of the most amazing natural ingredients that can be used literally everywhere. From cooking, to snacking, to moisturizing and helping heal infections -the uses for coconut oil are endless. Here are our top 10 uses!
1. As a cooking alternative to unhealthy oils and margarine
We all know how unhealthy margarine and trans fatty cooking oils can be. Extra virgin olive oil is an amazing cold oil, but used at high temperatures, it becomes toxic. Coconut oil is the perfect cooking alternative given the way our bodies metabolize medium chain triglyercides. Coconut oil contains healthy fat that burns fat. Unlike other oils, by cooking with it you’re actually getting great health benefits!
2. To Deeply Moisturize the Entire Body
Coconut oil can be used from head to toe to rehydrate parched skin. You can use it as a body moisturizer, a lip balm, a night cream, an eye cream, for dry cuticles and elbows -you name it!
3. As a hair masque
Say goodbye to frizz, split ends, and dry scalp. Coconut oil is an excellent hair masque. Soften about a tablespoon of coconut oil in your palm and apply from roots to ends for 10-20 minutes. For an extra moisture boost leave on overnight.
4. For Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient practice of swishing oil around in the mouth to pull toxins from the body, freshen breath, improve gum health, and whiten teeth. Because oil has a “negative charge” it draws impurities from your mouth. (Think of it as a magnet.) Use a tablespoon on coconut oil and swish around your mouth for 10 to 20 minutes. Spit oil out in a trashcan or toilet (never spit it down a drain as it will harden and cause clogs). Brush immediately after. You’ll notice fresher breath immediately! Within a week you’ll notice whiter teeth and improved gum health.
5. To Make “Power Coffee”
Power coffee also known as “bulletproof” coffee kickstarts your metabolism and sustains energy throughout the day. Again this is due to the way our bodies metabolize medium chain triglyercides.
If you’re new to coconut oil, start with a small amount. Coconut oil can cause digestive issues if you start with too much. Brew your coffee as usual and drop in a teaspoon of coconut oil. Eventually work your way up to a tablespoon. Add milk/cream as usual. Coconut oil will sweeten your coffee slightly, but if you want more sweetness add a dash of Stevia.
6. As a Makeup Remover
Coconut oil makes the perfect makeup remover! It even removes waterproof formulas in a snap while leaving your skin refreshed and silky smooth.
7. To Fight Acne, Fungus and Yeast
If you’re suffering from yeast overgrowth, acne, strange rashes or athlete’s foot, coconut oil naturally fends off yeast, bacteria, and fungus. Apply coconut oil directly to the affected area twice a day until the problem clears up. Some women even use it internally for yeast infections!
8. To Move Things Along
If you’re constipated and having trouble with regularity, take a tablespoon of coconut oil. Be sure you’re very close to a toilet as this will move things along very quickly!
9. For Scars and Stretch Marks
Coconut oil has major healing properties for stretch marks and scars. Apply it daily while pregnant to fend off stretch marks. On existing scars and stretch marks, apply it two to three times a day. It will take a few weeks but you will see a noticeable difference in the color and depth of scars if you’re diligent.
10. For Eyebrow Growth
Coconut oil helps unclog hair follicles and encourage hair growth. If you’ve overplucked your eyebrows or just want them thicker, apply coconut oil directly to eyebrows twice a day.
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*These tips are not meant to replace medical advice. Always consult a doctor for persistent health issues or before starting a new supplement or dietary regimen.
