Unique Uses of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is an edible oil retrieved from the inner fibers of matured coconuts. Once the inner flesh of the coconut dries out, it is then cold pressed to release its oil, which has a semi-solid texture much like petroleum jelly. Coconut oil is very popular nowadays in the food and health industries, but this amazing oil has many uses that have absolutely nothing to do with food.

For your hair: Dab a quarter-size dollop of coconut oil on tangled hair and the comb will gently glide through it. Say goodbye to split ends by deeply conditioning your hair using coconut oil; after shampooing your hair, dry it with a towel, then apply a small amount of coconut oil to the ends. Coconut oil contains lauric acids that has nourishing properties that are especially prone to soak into the strands of your hair. The coconut oil will be absorbed quickly providing moisture to tame frizz and heal breakage. Due to its antifungal and hydrating properties coconut oil helps prevent dandruff; massage your scalp using coconut oil then shampoo and condition your hair as normal to get rid of annoying flakes. You will notice a difference after a few sessions.

For your mouth: Rinse your mouth with coconut oil for dental health benefits. The oil is believed to fight gingivitis and microorganisms which causes bad breath; it is also believed to whiten your teeth and help to prevent tooth decay. The technique of swishing coconut oil as a mouthwash is called oil pulling. Coconut oil is a great moisturizer for people with rough skin. Dab coconut oil on your lips for a smooth, silky look. The oil will quickly moisturize your lips so say goodbye to dry or chapped lips.

For your skin: Dab some coconut oil on a cotton pad and apply it directly to your face to remove stubborn eyeliner, mascara, and eye makeup; it will melt away the makeup. Make your own body scrub by mixing coconut oil with sugar or salt for an excellent exfoliator, not only does the mixture remove dead skin cells but it will leave your skin soft and supple. Got a sunburn? Mix a few drops of lavender oil to coconut oil to help heal the burn; the mixture will help to prevent the skin from peeling if applied daily. Apply coconut oil to your hands to help prevent cracked nails, generously apply the oil to your cuticles for a smooth surface. Want a smoother shave without irritation and burns then apply coconut oil to your legs, armpits, or face about a half an hour before shaving. You will definitely notice the difference. Coconut oil is packed antioxidants, including Vitamin E and A and will help prevent aging. It is an ideal wrinkle cream and helps prevent fine lines and reduces spots. Coconut oil is also known for repairing sun damaged skin and providing an overall healthy glow. Some studies show that coconut oil can reduce the symptoms of eczema.

Not only do I use coconut oil as part of my daily skin care routine, but I have also used it on our dogs and cats to heal skin irritations. One of our cats loves coconut oil; he will partially knock me down to get to beat me to the bottle of coconut oil. I kid you not the cat’s name is CK, he was named before his coconut oil addiction but now we call him Coconut Kitty.

To get the most out of your coconut oil, use organic, virgin coconut oil rather than refined versions.