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The Four Ways to Incorporate Coconut Oil into your Life

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at WWU chapter.

Colleigettes are always looking for new and cheap ways to stay healthy. The internet craze of coconut oil has become a popular and useful way to maintain good health.  It has a variety of benefits for your skin, hair, teeth and even as an healthy alternative for cooking! The oil has been used as a health tool for 4000 years, so why not try out all the benefits it has to offer? 

1. For your skin

 “Delicious Living” says coconut oil is a great way to maintain healthy skin. Coconut oil is also rich in Vitamin E, which helps keep skin protected, restores wear and tear of the skin and prevents signs of premature aging of skin. Placing a small amount of oil in the palms of your hands or on a cotton ball before gently rubbing the oil into your skin to use it as a skin softener, exfoliator, makeup remover or even help with skin disorders such as acne, psoriasis and eczema. Unlike many other oils, coconut oil doesn’t need to be applied often. Your skin can only absorb a certain amount of oil at a time and over using it will leave your skin greasy.

2. For your hair

Don’t stop at your skin—using Coconut oil can also maintain healthy hair. The Society of Cosmetic Chemists says coconut oil helps with hair damage because it reduces protein loss. It keeps your hair soft and moist, thus preventing breakage of the hair. Apply by putting a small amount in your hand and apply to the ends of your hair. You can leave it on for multiple hours but make sure you wash it out before you go out because it makes your hair look greasy.

3. For your mouth

Coconut oil is also a great way to whiten your teeth, freshen your breath and fight unwanted bacteria in your mouth. The Journal Of The Indian Medical Association advises you to swish around coconut oil in your mouth like a mouthwash. The bacteria in your mouth will stick to the oil and dissolve in the oil. Take less than a teaspoon and swish it in your mouth for about 5 minutes and feel the refreshing results.

4. For your kitchen

Try out coconut oil in your kitchen as a substitute for butter and other cooking oils. Coconut oil has anti-bacterial properties that help control parasites and fungi that cause digestion related problems. It’s never too early to start thinking about your health. It’s known to help prevent heart disease, maintain glucose levels and the absorption of vitamins, amino acids and minerals make you healthier all around.

If you are looking to start on the coconut health regimen, you can purchase a 16-ounce coconut oil jar for $5.99 at any Trader Joes.

 

I am a senior at Western Washington Univeristy studying communication studies and public relations. I love to read, write, hang out with friends, shop and love my dogs!