If you’ve been around the natural health & beauty
community for any time, you’ve probably noticed that coconut oil is all the
rage. From blogs to Pinterest, to magazines and books, it seems like everyone
is raving about this natural oil.Trust us, it’s not a fad.
Though coconut oil has been around since, well, coconuts
were discovered, it used to have a bad rap. Because it’s over 90% saturated
fat, so-called health gurus labeled it unhealthy. However, the fat content is
actually beneficial in coconut oil, as it’s rich in nutrients, helps your body
absorb fat-soluble vitamins, and is full of antioxidant properties.
And for beauty, cosmetic-grade coconut oil is soothing and
moisturizing for your skin, and even works wonders for your hair.
As you’ll see on this list, its benefits and uses are
practically endless. It’s healthy, natural, and safe for your skin, body, and
even your shoes (check out #98). Whether you’re new to the coconut oil
bandwagon or you’ve been riding shotgun for years, grab a bottle or two (or
10!) here and check out all the ways you can use this wonder oil!
Body
and Skincare
Coconut oil should be among your staple of beauty products
if it isn’t already. For best results, choose a cosmetic grade when applying
coconut oil topically.
Fractionated coconut oil—in which the oil’s long-chain
triglycerides are removed, leaving the medium-chain triglycerides—works great
for DIY cosmetic treatments because of its long shelf life and increased
stability. In addition, it won’t clog your pores like virgin coconut oil and it
has a strong antioxidant effect, making it the perfect skin defender and
anti-aging companion!
Check
out these great uses for your skin, body and hair.
1. Moisturize Your Skin: Replace your
regular lotion with the refreshing and healing powers of coconut oil. It’s safe
for anywhere on your body and mixes well with essential oils for an
aromatherapy benefit. All you need is a coin-sized amount—once applied, give it
a minute to dry. You’ll feel the difference.
2. Face Mask: Clear up your complexion
with a homemade face mask! Mix 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of
raw honey. Apply the mixture to the face (be careful, it warms and softens on
your face and may drip) and wait 15-20 minutes. Rinse well with warm water.
3. Diminish Wrinkles: We all are looking
to get rid of signs of aging. Applying a bit of coconut oil to lines and
wrinkles helps rehydrate, soften skin, and improve texture.
4. Puffy Eyes: Make puffy eyes go poof!
Well, it’s not magic, but applying a small amount of oil around your eyes at
bedtime can reduce puffiness in the morning.
5. Conditioner: There isn’t a better
ingredient out there to moisturize your scalp, repair split ends, and add a
healthy glow to your tresses. Here’s how to use it:
Place 2 teaspoons of coconut oil into a small container.
Place that container into a larger bowl filled with water warmer than 76
degrees. This will soften the oil. Apply to damp hair and massage it into the roots.
Comb oil through the rest of your hair. Wrap your head in a towel for an hour,
then use a small amount of shampoo to remove the oil.
6. Fight Dandruff: Instead of buying
dandruff shampoos and conditioners, use coconut oil. Use it the same way as
conditioner, but leave it in overnight and wash it out in the morning for a
flake-free day.
7. Improve Hair Growth: More than a
moisturizer, coconut oil can strengthen hair and reduce breakage when used
daily.
8. Protect Hair from Sun: Use a bit of
coconut oil in your hair in the morning by running your fingers through your
hair and scalp, then brush evenly to add a layer of sun protection and frizz
control.
9. Detangle Hair: Tangled hair can be
annoying and painful. Coconut oil can make tangle removal painless! Dampen your
hair with water, apply coconut oil, and allow to sit for a few minutes. Then
gently comb through tangles.
10. Shaving Cream: If you’ve given up on
shaving cream because it dries your skin, coconut oil is a perfect alternative.
It moisturizes while helping the hairs stand up straight. This application is
especially helpful for people prone to dry skin and razor burn. Why not make
your own?
11. Aftershave: Now that you use it as a
shaving cream, go ahead and use it as an aftershave as well. It’s soothing and
helps skin heal from razor burn.
12. Lip Balm: It works well to moisten dry
or cracked lips, especially in dry weather. It can also help protect against
sun damage. For best application, use it in its solid state. You can apply it
with your fingers the same way you would any other lip balm.
13. Exfoliating Body Scrub: It serves as a
great base for body and face scrubs. Try this simple recipe:
Melt about a half cup of coconut oil. Stir in 2-4
tablespoons of white or brown sugar and pour into muffin tins or soap mold. Put
it in the fridge to let it solidify and cool completely before removing from
the mold. Slice off a piece and use it to gently scrub and exfoliate your body
after dampening your skin with water. Rinse off and apply moisturizer.
14. Exfoliate Your Face. Mix coconut oil
with baking soda in a 1-to-1 ratio and use it on your face. This is a great
exfoliating agent, and will remove all kinds of dirt and dead skin cells from
your face. Your complexion should be visibly brighter when you are finished.
15. Exfoliate Your Feet: You took care of
your face, now show your feet some love. Mix coarse sea salt with coconut oil
in a 2:1 ratio to scrub the soles of your feet.
16. Exfoliate Your Lips: Exfoliation has no
limit with coconut oil! Now it’s time to take care of the dead skin on your
lips. Mix a teaspoon of coconut oil with two teaspoons of brown sugar or raw
sugar to soften your lips.
17. Makeup Remover: Safely remove makeup
without irritating your skin or eyes. Coconut oil breaks down the makeup and
wipes off easily. Apply with your fingertips and massage it over makeup in a
circular motion. Rinse with water afterward and pat your face dry.
18. Cheekbone Highlighter: Give yourself a
youthful glow by highlighting your cheekbones with a little coconut oil after
you apply makeup.
19. Lotion Bar: Moisturize your skin by
making a lotion bar.
Combine a cup each of coconut, shea butter and beeswax in a
quart size glass mason jar with a lid and place in a small saucepan of water.
Boil water until ingredients melt. Remove from heat and add 1 teaspoon of
Vitamin E oil. Gently stir by hand until essential oils are incorporated. Pour
into molds. Allow the lotion bars to cool completely before attempting to pop
out of molds.
20. Deodorant: Why not make your own
deodorant while you’re at it?
Combine ½ cup each of coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax
in a glass mason jar with a lid and place this in a saucepan of water. Boil
water until ingredients are melted. Remove from heat and add a teaspoon of
Vitamin E oil, 3 tablespoons of baking soda, and ½ cup of arrowroot powder.
Stir by hand until all ingredients are combined. Pour into muffin tins or other
molds while still liquid. Allow to cool before removing.
21. Massage Oil: You can use a massage
right now, can’t you? Coconut oil is the perfect companion, combining
moisturizing power with antioxidants that are great for your muscles and skin.
22. Soften Elbows: If your elbows seem to
always be dry or cracked, rubbing a small amount of coconut oil on them twice a
day will help soften and smooth the skin.
23. Heal Cracked Heels: Give coconut oil a
crack at those cracked heels. The natural moisturizer can soften and prevent
cracking when used regularly.
24. Nail and Cuticle Treatment: You can’t
get a manicure every day, but you can treat your cuticles with coconut oil
regularly. Rub a small amount of oil into cuticles each night before bed. The
oil will soak into your cuticles overnight and stimulate your nails.
25. Reduce Stretch Marks: Though they may
not completely disappear, rubbing some coconut oil on stretch marks can reduce
their appearance over time.
26. Mascara Brush Cleaner: Get rid of the
buildup on your brush by soaking it in coconut oil for five minutes.
27. Enhance Eyelashes: If your eyelashes
are looking little limp, swab a small amount of coconut oil on them to give
them some life.
28. Remove Skin Wax: If you remove hair
with wax, that sticky substance is hard to get off your skin. Not anymore!
Apply some coconut oil and wipe it away with a warm washcloth.
29. Personal Lubricant: For those intimate
moments, it’s a safe and natural alternative to commercial lubricants, and
often works better. Just DO NOT use with condoms, as it’s not compatible with
latex.
30. Diminish Varicose Veins: Regularly
apply a thin layer of coconut oil to varicose veins and you’ll reduce their appearance.
31. Reduce Cellulite: Apply coconut oil to
the troubled areas regularly to see a difference in a few months.
32. Bath Oil: There’s nothing like a nice,
warm bath to relax after a long day. Add a bit of coconut oil to naturally coat
and refresh your skin. You can also make these awesome bath melts and drop them
in the tub:
Heat 1 cup of coconut oil on low for 1-2 minutes.Remove from
heat and add 15 drops of essential oils. Mix well, pour into molds and let
cool. Once cooled, pop the melts out of the molds and drop one in your bath and
let it dissolve. Store the rest in a container in a cool place.
33. Tattoo Moisturizer: You just got a new
tatt and you want it to heal so that annoying itch goes away. Put on a little
coconut oil to soothe it and keep it moisturized. It will make your ink stand
out better too!
Food,
Drink and Cooking
Yes, coconut oil is edible, and great for food as well as
food prep (just don’t use cosmetic grade oil because it can be harmful to
consume). There are two types of coconut oil: refined and unrefined (aka
virgin).
Refined coconut oil (extracted from dried coconuts) is
tasteless and odorless and it can withstand higher temperatures. But the
refining process often uses chemicals to bleach, deodorize, and in some cases,
partially hydrogenate the oil, which creates trans-fats. However, some refined
coconut oils use a more natural process, using just heat to refine the oil.
Check ingredients to make sure you’re getting a safe one.
Unrefined or virgin coconut oil is taken from fresh, not
dried, coconut and is extracted quickly without going through a refining
process. It retains its flavor and odor.
Here
are some uses and recipes for coconut oil in the kitchen.
34. Cooking Oil: It’s one of the best oils
for cooking because it’s able to withstand higher temperatures than other oils
due to its high percentage of saturated fat. Thinking all saturated fat is bad?
Throw away that 20th-century research. Some saturated fats are actually
healthy. It gives food a great taste and texture.
35. Grease Pans: Replace vegetable oil or
Crisco with coconut oil for a healthier way to grease your pans.
36. Creamer in Coffee or Tea: Whether
you’re chugging coffee for a morning boost or sipping tea for afternoon
relaxation, add a creamy mixture of coconut oil to revolutionize the
experience.
Blend 2 cups of hot coffee, 2 tablespoons of coconut oil,
and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a blender until oil and butter are
melted and coffee is frothy.
37. Sweetener: Trying to get rid of that
sweet tooth? Coconut oil is slightly sweet so you can use it to replace sugar
as a healthier option.
38. Butter Replacement: Love to smother
butter on that morning bagel or toast, but you know it’s not healthy?
Substitute coconut oil instead for a healthy alternative that still tastes
great.
39. In Smoothies: If you love smoothies–and
really, who doesn’t?—coconut oil is the perfect addition to them. Smoothies are
easy to make and (mostly) healthy. Adding coconut oil improves their
consistency. Try this recipe:
Combine 2 cups of coconut milk, 1/4 cup coconut oil, 2
tablespoons Gelatin Powder, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder,
½ cup of strawberries and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Blend and enjoy.
Salad Dressing: Not only does it add great taste to your
bowl of greens, it helps your body better absorb all those great nutrients in
your salad. Try this recipe:
41. Mayonnaise:
Mayo isn’t the healthiest condiment, but if you make it with coconut oil,
you’ll feel a bit less guilty.
Combine 2/3 cup coconut oil, 2/3 cup olive oil, a teaspoon
of mustard, a tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, and four egg
yolks.
42. Prevent Freezer Burn: Is there anything
worse than reaching in the freezer to dig into some leftover ice cream and finding
a layer of freezer burn on it. Uhh! Coconut oil to the rescue! Before you put
anything in the freezer, add a thin layer of coconut oil at the top of it. It
will form a seal to prevent freezer burn.
43. Preserve Eggs: Make your dozen eggs
last longer by coating the eggshell with coconut oil. Studies show it preserves
the quality of the eggs.
44. Popcorn Topping: Add it as a healthy
topping to your popcorn. Drizzle it along with some salt and make it a Netflix
night.
45. Removing food from dishes: Instead of
using elbow grease for those hard to clean dishes, add some coconut oil to
lubricate tough spots for an easier clean.
Health
and Home Remedies
The antibacterial and antioxidants in coconut oil make it a
great health and home remedy for many ailments. Make sure you use the food
grade of the oil if you ingest it. For any topical uses below, fractionated
coconut oil works great because its high concentration of capric and caprylic
acids make it a powerful antioxidant and disinfectant.
46. Fight Inflammation: Studies show that
the lauric acid and capric acid in coconut oil help suppress inflammation. Plus
it has no side effects like anti-inflammatory medicines.
47. Cuts and Wounds: Use it as a natural
antibacterial and antifungal cream to heal small cuts. Clean the wound first
then apply a small amount of oil.
48. Weight Loss: No, it’s not a magic
weight-loss formula, but it can help you drop pounds if you substitute it for
other fats.
49. Curb Your Appetite: If you love food
(and who doesn’t?), you may overeat from time to time. If you take a spoonful
of coconut oil before meals, it will help you keep portions under control.
50. Freshen Breath: Bad breath is caused by
bacteria in the mouth, and the antibacterial properties in coconut oil will
make sure no one runs away when you open your mouth.
51. Aromatherapy: Coconut oil can be used
as a carrier oil, helping your body absorb other essential oils and herbal
extracts to help you relax and unwind. Fractionated coconut oil is best for
this use.
52. Boost Energy: Feeling exhausted?
Coconut oil contains a unique form of saturated fats known as medium-chain
triglycerides that provide an energy source for the body.
53. Boosts Immune System: Adding coconut
oil to your regular diet can help boost your immune system, which helps you
fight viruses and infections.
54. Helps Blood Circulation: Taking coconut
oil and applying it to your body can help increase blood circulation.
55. Thyroid Supporter: Studies show that
regular coconut oil consumption supports healthy thyroid function.
56. Relieve Constipation: Coconut oil is a
natural laxative so it helps soften stools and speeds up your metabolism.
57. Improve Bone Health: As a fat, coconut
oil helps your body absorb vitamins and nutrients like calcium better. The
better your body absorbs calcium, the stronger your bones will be.
58. Fights Arthritis: With
anti-inflammatory properties, it combats arthritis pain, which comes from
inflammation in the joints. Take a couple of tablespoons daily for the benefit.
59. Treat Fungal and Yeast Infections: The
medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil diffuse into cell membranes of various
organisms and fight bacteria, fungi, yeast, viruses and parasite. Add 3-5
tablespoons of coconut oil to your daily diet and/or treat the affected area by
applying a thin layer of oil to it.
60. Treat Hemorrhoids: Get rid of the pain
of hemorrhoids and take a seat in comfort by applying coconut oil as a
treatment.
61. Treat Athlete’s Foot: The antifungal
properties make it the perfect foil to athlete’s foot. Rub it on your feet
along with tea tree oil for relief.
62. Treat Toenail Fungus: The unsightly
enemy is no match for the antifungal phenomenon of coconut oil. Apply a small
amount, several times a day, and you’ll see a gradual improvement.
63. Lower Cholesterol: A tablespoon a day
can drive cholesterol away! The high levels of lauric acid in coconut oil help
boost HDL (good cholesterol), which in turn lowers bad cholesterol (LDL).
64. Cold Sores: Applying coconut oil
several times a day can stop the spread of sores and provide a soothing effect.
65. Sore Throat Relief: Soothe an itchy and
sore throat by dissolving a spoonful in your mouth and let it roll down your
throat.
66. Heal a Cough: Mix a teaspoon of honey
with a half spoonful of coconut oil. Add hot water so it fills a quarter of a
cup. Drink it hot and that cough will diminish.
67. Insect Repellant: You may love coconut
oil, but bugs can’t stand it. Slather some on to keep the critters away.
68. Bug Bites: The warm weather often
brings insects that find spots to bite you. The anti-inflammatory agents in
coconut oil help relieve itching and irritation.
69. Bee Sting Soother: Soothe that sting with
a dab of coconut oil (after removing the stinger). It helps to reduce swelling
and pain.
70. Relieve Sunburn: Sunburn can be
painful, but coconut oil can soothe it. Make this mixture: Mix a 1:1 ratio of
coconut oil and aloe vera gel and put in the fridge to cool a bit. Rub it on
the burned area for a soothing and cooling effect.
71. Relief from Eczema: Soothe the itching
from eczema flare up with coconut oil.
72. Relief from Poison Ivy: Whether it’s
ivy, oak, or sumac—pick your poison—coconut oil can soothe itching by applying
it to affected areas. A warm bath with some coconut oil will make you forget
you stumbled into that poisonous vegetation in the first place.
73. Soothe Chicken Pox: Give your child
some relief if he or she is suffering from chicken pox by rubbing the oil on
the affected areas.
74. Relief from Heartburn/Acid Reflux: Oh,
what a relief it is! We’re not talking about Alka-Seltzer. Three tablespoons of
coconut oil a day can improve digestive health and soothe your esophagus.
75. Relief from a Toothache: Instead of
reaching for the Advil, mix 1-part coconut oil with 2 parts clove oil, and
apply to your gums with a cotton swab.
76. Toothpaste: Mix 6 tablespoons each of
coconut oil and baking soda with 25 drops of essential oil (spearmint is a
great choice), and you have homemade, all-natural toothpaste.
77. Mouthwash: Now that you have
toothpaste, now use coconut oil as a mouthwash. It’s called oil pulling, and
you use it in liquid form, “pulling” not swishing it through your mouth.
78. Remove Ear Wax: Use an eyedropper to
apply two drops of coconut oil to help break up wax buildup.
79. Get Rid of Warts and Moles: Rub coconut
oil onto warts and moles and cover with a bandage. Do this regularly and
they’ll diminish.
80. Fight Allergies: Allergy season can be
a nightmare, but coconut oil can make it a sweet dream. Dap a little on your
nostrils for quick relief.
81. Treat an Ear Infection: Never
underestimate the antibacterial and antifungal power of coconut oil. Applying
it to the ear can kill the infection.
82. Stop Nose Bleeds: If you’re prone to a
bloody nose, rub a little of it in your nostrils to combat the cracking that
leads to bleeds.
83. Prevent Lice: Your kid comes home from
school and somehow has lice. No worries, dip a comb in coconut oil, run it
through your child’s hair to chase lice away.
Pregnancy
and Infant Care
Coconut oil can be a mom’s best friend as it has benefits
for her and her infant. Whether carrying or taking care of a baby, here are
ways coconut oil is a fantastic resource.
84. Nipple
Cream: Reduce irritation when nursing by rubbing the soothing oil on your
nipples. It’s safe and great for your baby too!
85. Nursing Boost: Speaking of nursing, by
taking 3-4 tablespoons of coconut oil a day, moms can increase their milk
supply and nutrients.
86. Prevent Morning Sickness: You can calm
your stomach during pregnancy by taking a tablespoon. Make it a regular morning
routine.
87. Rub on Perineum: You can prevent, or at
least lessen, tears to the perineum during birth by applying coconut oil to it
daily in the months leading up to your due date.
88. Moisturize Baby’s Skin: Babies have
sensitive skin so coconut oil is a safe choice that won’t cause irritation.
Apply a dab to dry patches, such as the creases of their neck, to keep them
moist and protected.
89. Stop Diaper Rash: The thick oil has
antifungal properties to soothe the rash and acts as a barrier to prevent
further irritation. Plus, it won’t make the rash worse like other rash creams.
Fixing
Stuff Around the Home
We told you to keep plenty of this oil on hand. Tackle some
household tasks with the amazing coconut oil!
90. Remove Rust: It’s a great remedy for
rust on household items. Apply a thin layer and let it sit for a few hours,
then rinse with warm water.
91. Get a Zipper Unstuck: You’re in a rush
so you need to throw on some clothes and leave. But the stupid zipper on your
jacket or jeans is stuck. Quick fix? Rub a little coconut oil on it and watch
that baby glide!
92. Gum Removal: Gum can seem impossible to
remove from hair, carpet, shoes or anywhere else. Not with coconut oil. Use it
to get rid of the gunk.
93. Fix Squeaky Hinges: You can only deal
with that squeaky door for so long before it drives you crazy. Instead of
pulling it off its hinges, lubricate it with coconut oil for peace and quiet.
94. Lubricate Kitchen Appliances: Keep all
your small kitchen appliances—blenders, can openers, mixers, food processors
and the like—operating optimally by rubbing a thin layer of oil on blades.
95. Furniture Polish: It’s safe on wood and
not toxic, unlike those polishes from the store. Rub a little on your furniture
and watch it shine.
96. Plant Shine: You’ve given your
furniture a shine, now do the same for your indoor plants. Rub a small amount
on plants’ leaves to give them shine and prevent dust buildup.
97. Get Rid of Soap Scum: Does that
hard-to-remove buildup on the sink and shower frustrate you? Apply some coconut
oil to help scrub it away.
98. Leather Shiner: Give those pumps,
boots, or purses a fresh touch-up and shine by rubbing some of the oil on them.
99. Leather Cleaner: And you thought you
were just making those shoes look pretty. You just killed two birds with one
stone: As you shine your leather, you’re also cleaning it.
100. Remove a Ring:
Sometimes a ring is hard to remove, especially if your fingers swell. Apply the
oil to your hands and the ring, and it should come off easily.
101. Coat Snow
Shovels: Oh, the weather outside is frightful…but you still have to shovel.
Apply the oil to the shovel to keep snow from sticking to it as you clear that
driveway.
Wow! Is your head spinning? Why would you need anything
else? Just fill every cupboard with coconut oil. OK, maybe not. But as you can
see, the possibilities are limitless with this oil, so it’s best that you keep
it well stocked.
When it comes to the best natural and organic beauty
products like coconut oil, you can trust InstaNatural as a safe source for
friendly items for your skin. Check out our website and see why InstaNatural is
a favorite provider of natural and organic beauty products. If you’d like to find out even more, please feel
free to call us at +1 (800) 290-6932.
Source This article was originally published
on Instanatural.com
republished by healthy cures