5 Incredible Coconut Oil Benefits
Here at Blissful Essence, we absolutely adore coconut oil. I wanted to explain some of this oil's benefits and how to incorporate this gorgeous oil into daily living with minimum effort. We will go beyond skin, hair and beauty, exploring brain health and coconut oil's positive effects on one’s internal health.
Coconut oil has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, and its benefits have been well-documented by both traditional medicine and modern research. This natural oil is extracted from the kernel or meat of mature coconuts harvested from the coconut palm tree. It is a versatile ingredient used for cooking, as a beauty product, and medicinal purposes. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the benefits of coconut oil and how it can be incorporated into your daily routine.
There are several types of coconut oil available in the market.
Here’s a quick definition for all.
Organic coconut oil: This is a type of coconut oil that is produced without the use of pesticides or chemicals, ensuring that the oil is free of harmful residues.
Cold-pressed coconut oil: This type of coconut oil is made by pressing fresh coconut meat at low temperatures, without using any heat or chemicals. This preserves the natural nutrients in the oil.
Fractionated coconut oil: This type of coconut oil is produced by separating the long-chain fatty acids from the oil, leaving only the medium-chain fatty acids. It remains liquid at room temperature and is often used in skincare products and massage oils.
Hydrogenated coconut oil: This type of coconut oil is produced by adding hydrogen to the oil, making it solid at room temperature. It is commonly used in baked goods and processed foods, but it is not as healthy as un-hydrogenated coconut oil.
Let’s get into some of the benefits!
Promotes healthy skin and hair
Coconut oil is a popular ingredient in many skincare products and for good reason. It is rich in fatty acids, which help to moisturize and nourish the skin. Coconut oil also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent choice for those with acne-prone skin. Additionally, the vitamin E found in coconut oil can help to repair damaged skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
For hair, coconut oil can be used as a natural conditioner. It penetrates the hair shaft, providing deep hydration and preventing hair breakage. It also helps to reduce frizz and can be used to style hair.
Improves brain function
There has been some research into the potential benefits of coconut oil for Alzheimer's disease, although the evidence is currently limited and further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
The theory behind the use of coconut oil for Alzheimer's disease is based on the idea that the brain cells of people with Alzheimer's are not able to use glucose as an energy source effectively. Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can be metabolized by the liver to produce ketones, an alternative energy source that can be used by the brain. This can help to improve brain function, especially in individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
Dental health - Prevent gum disease and tooth decay
Coconut oil may have potential benefits for oral health. Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around in the mouth for several minutes in order to improve oral health. Coconut oil is a popular choice of oil for pulling.
Potential benefits of oil pulling with coconut oil may include:
Improved breath: Coconut oil has antibacterial properties that can help to reduce the bacteria that cause bad breath.
Reduced inflammation: Oil pulling with coconut oil may help to reduce inflammation in the mouth and improve gum health.
Teeth whitening: Some people claim that oil pulling with coconut oil can help to whiten teeth, although the evidence for this is limited.
It’s important to note oil pulling should not be used as a substitute for regular brushing and flossing, which are still the most effective ways to maintain good oral hygiene.
Aids in weight loss
Coconut oil has been shown to be effective in aiding weight loss. MCTs can increase feelings of fullness, which can help to reduce calorie intake. Additionally, they can boost metabolism, leading to increased calorie burn.
Boosts immune system
Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties. It can help to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses in the body, boosting the immune system.
How to successfully incorporate coconut oil into your daily routine:
Coconut oil can be used in a variety of ways, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Here are some ideas:
Use coconut oil as a cooking oil for stir-fries, sautés, and baking.
Add a tablespoon of coconut oil to your morning coffee or smoothie.
Use coconut oil as a natural moisturizer for your skin and hair.
Make homemade body scrubs using coconut oil and sugar or salt.
Use coconut oil as a natural lip balm or cuticle oil.
Add coconut oil to your pet's food to improve their coat and digestion.
Coconut oil is a versatile and natural ingredient with numerous health benefits. It can be used in cooking, as a beauty product, and for medicinal purposes. Incorporating coconut oil into your daily routine can lead to healthier skin, hair, and body.
The initial steps to creating coconut oil include scraping. The inner flesh of the coconut is scraped and then pressed at very low temperatures to release its oil.
It’s one of the purest forms of coconut oil available on the market.