Coconut Oil: A Great Natural Remedy

Well, here we are again back to natural remedies, and one of them that I have heard so much about, I have personally used, and believe that it has definite health benefits is Coconut Oil.  I feel that this product is  worth discussing and  it is important to help you learn the many benefits it can offer for many conditions from your skin to helping improve your immune system or reducing stress. Many times natural remedies are much safer and less toxic especially if you are someone who has the misfortune of having allergies or sensitivities.

 Coconut oil as a cosmetic product:  

 Coconut oil has long been used in cosmetics products because its medium-chain fatty acids are easily absorbed into the skin which allows your skin cells to retain more water. A 2004 study published in the journal Dermatitis found that coconut is as safe and effective as mineral oil when used as a moisturizer on your skin.  If you are using plain coconut oil it is recommend that you do not apply it too heavily because it can clog pores—just put a small amount on your fingertips – which will go a long way.

You need to make sure you purchased, and read labels carefully to make sure it is not a hydrogenated version that has much less benefits whether it is in a shampoo of any other skin care products. And as always make sure that no additives or fragrances have been added.

Coconut Oil as a Food:

There are many ways to use coconut oil and incorporate it into one’s diet. Since it is a stable cooking oil, one can simply replace unhealthy oils in their diet with coconut oil. Since it is a solid most of the time at room temperature or when refrigerated, it can be a butter or margarine substitute for spreads or for baking. Any recipe calling for butter, margarine, or any other oil can be substituted for coconut oil. It is popularly mixed in with “smoothies.” If you refrigerate or freeze Virgin Coconut Oils the taste changes completely, and some describe it like a “candy” or “white chocolate.” Some people fill up ice-cube trays with coconut oil and then store them in the freezer. Some people use it as a spread, and a lot of people put it into their coffee or tea.

The oil found in coconuts is said to have weight losing properties. Try taking a tablespoon or two before meals to see if it works for you.

 Health Benefit of Coconut Oil:  

Some of the other health benefits of Coconut Oil include:

• Stress relief
• Maintaining cholesterol levels
• increased immunity
• Proper digestion and metabolism
• Relief from kidney problems
• Heart diseases
• High blood pressure and helps to increase blood circulation
• Diabetes
• HIV and cancer
• Dental care and bone strength.

These benefits of coconut oil  can be attributed to the presence of lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid, and its properties such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-fungal, antibacterial, and soothing properties.

My suggestion would be to purchase a USDA certified organic virgin coconut oil to make sure you are getting the best product, the most health benefits, and the best value for your money!  As you know there are some many imitations on the market so you need read labels Carefully! Remember our goal is to “Go Green!”

About the author

Marla

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Hi! Thanks for visiting my blog! I believe in living green, organically, and natural in every aspect of our lives. My mission is to help educate you on how to live green, help save our environment and to help you and your family live a happier, healthier life!