If you haven’t tried coconut oil with its many beneficial attributes, then you are missing out on something great! Coconut oil is derived from coconuts (of course). Coconuts are an excellent source of nutrition and have healthful meat, juice and oil. The oil is arguably the most nutritious part and has many health benefits. Coconut oil is over 90% saturated fat and has antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Coconut oil is also an antioxidant and helps the body absorb other minerals more efficiently.
Don’t be alarmed about this oil being so concentrated in saturated fats. The truth is that the fat in coconut oil behaves differently in the body; not all saturated fats react the same way. Due to its high lauric acid content, it is actually good for your body. The saturated fat in coconut oil is necessary for cell growth and function. It is also linked to increased health and weight loss.
So what are the ways in which coconut oil can be used?
*The best form of coconut oil to use is organic extra virgin unrefined coconut oil. It will initially come in a solid form but once you introduce any type of heat such as your hands or the stove, it will melt down into a liquid form.
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Cooking. You can use this healthy oil in place of others for cooking.
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Lotion. You can use this oil to moisturize your body. Just apply a small amount to your skin. Your skin will absorb it so you won’t have that greasy look or feeling. Instead you will be glowing!
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Smoothies. If you like to make smoothies, coconut oil is a great additive. Since in contains a lot of nutrition it will make your smoothie that much more healthy and nutritious to your body.
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Makeup Remover. Yes, it works for that too! This is an all-natural makeup remover that also has anti-aging properties. If you are one to tug on your skin a lot when removing your makeup, coconut oil helps to restore elasticity and prevent premature wrinkles.
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Hair Care. Due to its antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal properties, coconut oil can be used to remove buildup on the scalp and also moisturize it. If you suffer from dandruff, this is a good product to use as a natural remedy. Of course, use this oil prior to washing your hair because it can make your hair look oily.
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Oil Pulling for Oral Health. Coconut oil can be used for oil pulling for oral health. Oil pulling is an age-old remedy that uses natural substances to clean and detoxify teeth and gums. It also whitens the teeth naturally and evidence even shows that it is beneficial in improving gums and removing harmful bacteria! The basic idea of oil pulling is that oil is swished in the mouth for a short time each day (preferably when you brush your teeth in the morning and/or evening) and that this action helps improve oral health. (wellnessmama.com)
With all these benefits how can you not love coconut oil! Try out one, some, or all of these techniques and comment down below your thoughts on coconut oil.
Sources:
http://wellnessmama.com/2072/benefits-of-coconut-oil/
http://wellnessmama.com/7866/oil-pulling-for-oral-health/