Coconut oil is extremely versatile, with lots of uses that might surprise you. Here are 110 things that coconut oil can be used for:
Soothe cracked animal paws
If your pup has cracked paws then coconut oil is the perfect cure. Simply rub the oil into the dry paws and you will see an instant difference as your pet’s paws turn silky and soft. Keep your eyes on your little friend to stop him from licking the tasty oil off! Read more…
Stir Frying
Coconut oil is a great option for frying food, as it is a really healthy option. It also provides a delicious alternative to the usual canola and olive oils as it leaves a soft coconut flavour to your food. Coconut oil is perfect for Asian cooking and to add that ‘je ne se quoi’ to your dishes. Bare in mind that unrefined coconut oil has a lower smoke point than a more refined coconut oil so if you are needing really high temperatures of frying then the more refined the better.
Skin Moisturiser
Coconut oil is an amazing moisturiser for your skin not just because of the delicious scent but also because of its amazing chemical properties. Coconut oil is made up of medium-chain triglycerides, which means that it goes deep into the skin leaving it silky smooth.
Cold Sores
Cold sores are painful, ugly and above all a nuisance. Coconut oil is not only an antiviral but is also antifungal and antibacterial so when put on a cold sore it will stop it from bleeding and cracking whilst dissolving the sore itself. You should put the coconut oil on as soon as you spot the cold sore as well as taking a spoonful orally.
Wood Polish
No longer do you need to pollute your house with toxic chemical wood polishes, as completely natural and sweet smelling coconut oil is a perfect fix for aging wood. Combine the coconut oil with lemon juice and simply rub on the piece of wood in circular motions to spruce up any piece of furniture.
Reduce Wrinkles
Coconut oil is a brilliant anti aging option for your skin. Containing so many antioxidants and antibacterial elements, it fights wrinkles and aging. The antioxidants protect skin from the wear and tear of daily life including environmental strains such as smoke and wind.
Ease Nappy Rash
The amazing antibacterial and antiviral properties found in coconut oil soothe baby’s skin. It also contains lauric acid, which is the same substance that breast milk contains. This natural antifungal and antibacterial found in the lauric acid as well as the caprylic acids tackles nappy rash as well as helping with yeast infections.
Makeup brush cleaner
A great way of cleaning your makeup brushes is to dip them in coconut oil. It is perfect for all different types of brushes as it is completely natural and non-toxic. This means that it can be used to clean face brushes and even eye brushes. The coconut oil not only cleans but also keeps the bristles in good condition.
Oil cleansing for clear skin
Coconut oil is a wonderful option for cleansing. It helps to tone and even out skin whilst also protecting it against the elements. The oil locks in moisture which is essential to keeping skin clear and smooth and stopping skin from drying out.
Make-up remover
Good make-up removers can be extremely expensive. Coconut oil is an effective and natural option, which will not only remove your makeup but also leave your skin gleaming. Simply rub the oil in between your hands and rub it in circular motions over your closed eyes. Leave it to rest for a few seconds so that it can pick up all of the make-up and wipe off with a pad. Rinse off with cool water for a refreshing end to your make-up removal regime.
Reduce dandruff
For thousands of years people have been using coconut oil to remove dandruff. Although you may think that dandruff is simply caused by dry skin on your scalp, it actually is caused by fungus. Coconut oil has amazing anti-fungal properties so kills this fungus whilst also moisturising your scalp and hair!
Non-Latex Lubricant
On top of the many other uses for the magical coconut oil, you may be surprised to find out that is also makes a healthy and organic lubricant. With it’s antifungal and antibacterial properties, coconut oil will help to prevent yeast infections which may be caused by intercourse.
Washing up water to fight stuck food
Coconut oil can be added to your washing up liquid to help remove that pesky food that will not budge. Knowing what are the ingredients inside your soap, detergents and washing supplies mean that you are aware of exactly what goes into your body.
Melt over popcorn
Coconut oil is a great option for frying the popcorn itself. Melt the coconut oil in the pan before adding the popcorn kernels. Add a few at first to make sure that it is the right temperature. When most of the kernels have popped pour into a bowl and add melted coconut oil for a healthier alternative to butter.
To get rid of head lice
Coconut oil is deadly to lice. If your children have had a bad outbreak of lice then melt the oil and pour it over their heads. Leave on for an hour (the more time the better) and simply rinse off. Comb through the hair afterward to remove any dead lice.
Thicken smoothies or milkshakes
Bananas are the most common way of thickening smoothies and milkshakes, however not everyone likes them and often it is nice to have a change of taste. Coconut oil is an excellent thickening agent, whilst also adding that rich, tropical flavour.
Seasoning cast iron pans
Seasoning a cast iron pan is essential for it to take on non-stick properties and coconut oil does the job perfectly. Simply take a cloth or sponge and coat the inside of the pan with a layer of coconut oil. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and put the pan on the top shelf. Cook for 90 minutes and that’s it! Repeat if/as needed.
Prevent and repair split ends
Coconut oil makes hair silky and smooth and reduces split ends. It is the perfect treatment for coloured and dry hair. It makes the hair strands stronger and prevents hair splitting as well as reducing the amount of hair lost during the day.
Blend with nuts to create nut butter
Blend coconut oil with nuts to create a range of divine butters including peanut butter, almond butter and chestnut butter. Avoid the processed butters that you can buy at the store and take 5 minutes to make your own. Simply soak your chosen nuts in water, leave to dry and then pop in a blender with your coconut oil. Place mixture in the fridge and there you have it – coconut butter!
As a teething aid in babies
Teething is a sore time for a baby as their little gums are raw and prone to infection. Rubbing coconut oil onto their gums and teething toys can keep out bacteria. This natural and organic method of assisting teething will sooth the painful area and also taste good.
Create a chocolate treat
For all the vegans, lactose intolerant people and just about anyone who has a sweet tooth, coconut oil chocolate is a delicious treat. Simply mix the cocoa, honey, salt and coconut oil in a pan over a low heat and once melted together place on baking paper and put in the fridge until hard. What will emerge will be a healthy, low fat and tasty alternative to usual chocolate.
Prevent acne
Coconut oil has antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties which when consumed make a drastic difference to your skin. Coconut oil fights the causes of acne and results in clear, smooth skin. Putting the oil on the skin itself also is a great help in preventing acne.
Natural protective sun-cream
Numerous recent studies are showing that shop bought sun tan lotions are in fact causing skin cancer and sun damage rather than preventing it. Coconut oil has a natural SPF of 10 so putting it on your skin provides instant protection. Eating coconut oil also makes your skin stronger and more resilient to the sun’s harmful rays.
Soothe itchy eczema
Eczema is an itchy and often painful skin disorder, which can be a real pain to get rid of. With steroids and prescribed drugs being found to be ineffective, many sufferers are searching for natural options. Virgin coconut oil in particular has amazing healing properties, which not only soothes but also heals eczema from the root cause.
Lubricate a stuck zip
When a zip on a jacket or a bag gets stuck it can leave you incredibly frustrated especially if you are in a rush. Do not fear because coconut oil is here! Simply rub a generous amount of coconut oil over the pesky zip and before you know it your zip will run up and down smoothly again.
Treat constipation
Coconut oil is a fantastic colon cleanser, so when consumed it allows you to go to the bathroom quicker and eases constipation. As constipation is one of the main causes of haemorrhoids, coconut oil also prevents this painful problem. It also increases your metabolism, which means that food is broken down quicker.
Replace vegetable oil in recipes
Replacing vegetable oil with coconut oil adds a tropical tasting, delicious alternative to your dishes adding a new dynamic of flavour. When using coconut oil for cooking, bare in mind that it is a solid at room temperature so needs to be melted in the pan before adding the food.
Moisturising sun tanning oil
Coconut oil has a natural SPF in it and so protects skin from the sun. It leaves a protective layer over the skin, which not only protects against sunburning and cancerous rays, the oil also moisturises your skin at the same time.
Stop hands drying out after washing up
Chemicals found in detergents and washing up liquids rip all moisture from the skin. If you find that your hands are dry and scaly after washing up, then applying coconut oil will return your mitts back to their silky soft selves. Use coconut oil in the cold months on your hands and lips to keep them smooth and to avoid cracking.
Kill yeast infections
Yeast infections affect millions of women a year and can be an itchy, painful and annoying nuisance. Coconut oil has amazing anti-fungal, antiviral and antimicrobial properties, so it is an obvious natural remedy for yeast infections. Lauric acid which is also found in coconut oil helps to strengthen the immune system and therefore preventing infections.
Prevent stretch marks
Stretch marks are caused by a rapid stretching of the skin. This is usually caused by weight gain and loss as well as pregnancy. Although the marks appear on the outer skin they cannot be properly removed unless the dermis layer deep under the skin is treated. Coconut oil is a great solution as it permeates deep into the skin whilst healing and moisturising.
After-sun lotion
Coconut oil makes for a brilliant after sun lotion as it moisturises and heals burnt skin whilst preventing the skin from becoming dry and aged. Simply rub in coconut oil to the affected skin and you will feel instant relief from the stinging. Apply every day until the burn has gone.
Increase egg shelf life
Believe it or not, eggs can have an ‘egg’stended (sorry) shelf life simply by lathering their shells in coconut oil. The oil does this by blocking any oxygen from getting to the eggs, and so preserving the contents inside. Just melt the coconut oil, leave to cool a little so the eggs don’t cook and dip in the eggs. Eggs that have been coated in this way are reported to have lasted for a year!
A bath oil
Put approximately ¼ of a cup of coconut oil into a steaming bath to make your skin incredibly silky soft. Lay in the bath water for as long as you can so that the natural nutrients of the coconut go into your skin. You can also make bath bombs by melting coconut oil and pouring into moulds. place the moulds in the fridge for them to set.
Add volume to eyelashes
Apply coconut oil from the roots down to the tips of your eyelashes to promote the eyelashes themselves to grow. Melt the coconut oil, leave to cool and then use a mascara wand or just your fingers to coat the lashes. If repeated every day, you will notice a difference within a few weeks of use.
Create a tasty salad topping
Coconut oil is made from the whole coconut, so the flavour is extra deep and tropical. It can be combined with many different ingredients as a delicious salad topping. The fats in coconut oil actually make the absorption of the nutrients in the vegetables easier for your body, and therefore making the salad even healthier.
Replacement for egg
Coconut oil is full of amazingly healthy fats and can be used as a tasty substitute for eggs in many dishes where binding of ingredients is needed. It also adds the richness that is lacking in many vegan dishes. Add the oil as a solid at room temperature and it will give the effect of whisked egg whites or melt it down to have the consistency of the beaten yolk.
Remove rust from metals
Coconut oil is a lot more than a tasty addition to your food; as yet another use for this magical substance is to remove rust. Take your rusty cutlery or pans and coat in the coconut oil. Leave to soak in warm water and then simply wipe away the rust.
Pleasant-smelling massage oil
Massage is a practise that has been around for thousands of years for its amazing healing and relaxing effects. Coconut oil is a perfect substance to use for all types of massage as it not only feels wonderfully smooth on the skin but also contains anti-mycobacterial properties and fatty acids. When massaged into the skin these keep in moisture.
Shower-friendly shaving cream
Are you sick of expensive shaving foams and products to get an amazingly close shave whilst also moisturising your skin, use coconut oil as your shaving gel. Your legs with feel smooth and silky whilst maintaining a lasting shave. Shave at the end of the shower/bath to get an extra close shave, as the hair follicles are open.
Face contour
As well as being a wonderful moisturiser, coconut oil has a beautiful sheen when rubbed onto the skin. Massage into your cheekbones to highlight and accentuate your features and to act as a highlighter. When out in the sun your face will glimmer and gleam and you will smell just as good as you look!
Wooden cutting board treatments
Vegetable oils and olive oils are bad choices for layering on wooden cutting boards as they can have terrible odours as well as rotting the wood itself. Coconut oil however is a perfect option as it not only smells wonderful but also treats the wood without it moulding.
Healthier alternative to butter
Coconut oil is a great, healthy and less fattening alternative to butter. It is a great substitute as there are so many similarities. Coconut oil can be spread on toast just like butter as they are both solid at room temperature and have a similar consistency.
Soothe bee or nettle stings
Applying coconut oil to a bite or sting protects the area as the oil contains antibacterial properties. It also helps to reduce the effects of the injury as coconut oil contains anti-inflammatory agents. This also reduces the pain and itchiness.
Relieve a sore throat
Sip away that sore throat or swollen glands by adding coconut oil to your soup or tea. The antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties help to sooth the throat whilst healing the problem. For an even more direct approach eat a spoonful of coconut oil straight from the spoon.
Untangle long hair
Tangled hair is a struggle for any women with curly or long hair. The fatty acids in coconut oil penetrate hair deeply and moisturise dry hair, which causes tangles and knots. For deep conditioning and to remove really stubborn knots, melt the coconut oil and massage into hair. Cover with a towel and leave for 30 minutes. Rinse off and your hair will be silky, smooth and shiny.
Deep cleaner for Tupperware
Tupperware is everyone’s favourite way of storing food yet if not looked after properly then it can get old and dirty. Coconut oil can be a great cleaner for Tupperware as well as removing the stains from the plastic. Just rub a small amount into the plastic and the stains will be removed!
Aid dry lips
Rub coconut oil into your lips a few times a day to prevent and cure dry and chapped lips. Whether your dry lips are caused by the sun or cold weather and rain, the natural moisturising properties will bring your pout back to life. You can also buy coconut balms from many stores where you can choose an assortment of other delicious smelling accompaniments such as lavender, mint and aloe vera.
Shape facial hair
A beard on a man may look like a he is letting himself go wild, however to keep it looking good there is quite a lot of maintenance involved. There are many expensive oils on the market, however simple coconut oil can do the trick. It will keep the skin underneath smooth and hydrated as well as keeping the facial hair full and shiny.
Silence Creaky Doors
Another great coconut oil life hack is applying it onto creaky door hinges to silence them. Simply rub the oil onto the hinge and voila! Your door will open and close without any squeaks or creaks. What makes coconut oil an extra good choice is that it will not go mouldy or cause rust.
Homemade Eyeliner
Coconut oil is a brilliant base for homemade, non-toxic makeup. To make eyeliner yourself, just mix 2 teaspoons of melted coconut oil with 4 teaspoons of aloe vera gel and 2 capsules of activated charcoal. You can play around with colours by adding cocoa for brown.
Help cuts heal faster
Coconut oil promotes collagen production which speeds up the skin healing process. It also contains antibacterial properties, which will prevent the area from becoming infected. Just apply to the injury and leave to soak in.
Homemade Mayonnaise
Homemade mayonnaise is much more tasty than shop bought as it has fresh ingredients and real zesty lemon flavour. A perfect vegan friendly alternative to standard mayonnaise, this version is made by replacing eggs with coconut oil. Blend 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, vinegar, mustard and salt together. Add olive oil slowly and finally stir in the coconut oil to thicken.
Remove stubborn price tags
One of life’s annoying little hindrances is buying a lovely gift for a friend or family member, only to find that when ripping off the price sticker, part of it is left on. Rubbing coconut oil onto the sticker in a circular motion will quickly dissolve the glue. Just wipe away the excess oil and paper and your price tag will be just a distant memory.
Soup Ingredient
Coconut oil can be added to just about any soup to add another dimension of flavour. it melts easily into any hot liquid so can be added at any point during the cooking process. Coconut oil can add an Asian or tropical element to a soup. Sweet potato, lentil and spicy carrot soups are all asking for that hint of coconut to make them extra delicious.
Make hair shinier
Particularly loved by Indian women with thick, long locks, coconut oil has been used for thousands of years to keep hair shiny, soft and luscious. Even if you don’t have Indian genes, you can achieve that beautiful sun reflecting hair. Dip a towel in coconut oil and rub into the hair from root to tip. Comb through to make sure that it gets to every strand. Cover your head and leave on overnight. Wash off in the morning and you will be stunned by the shine on your hair.
Prevent Sore Noses in the cold
Soothe your winter cracked skin and sore noses by rubbing coconut oil onto the affected area with a cotton bud. Inexpensive and delicious smelling, the coconut oil will also prevent areas from becoming inflamed or infected due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Add calories to your diet
The fat found in coconut oil is incredibly healthy and can help in instances when you need to add additional calories to your diet but you may be struggling. Believe it or not, coconut oil can in fact help you to lose weight as it has fatty acids, which actually speed up your metabolism.
Natural Deodorant
Everything that you put on your skin is absorbed whether it is good or bad. Spray deodorants have long been linked to cancer, which has lead to more and more people looking for an organic alternative. Coconut oil which is solid at room temperature can be rubbed into the skin as a wonderful smelling, natural deodorant. It naturally melts into the skin and is long lasting too!
Repel dust
Yet another unknown use for coconut oil is to repel dust. A thin layer of coconut oil wiped over surfaces will actually repel the dust from the surface, which keeps your furniture looking cleaner for longer. It also makes the actual cleaning process quicker and easier.
De-frizz troublesome hair
Frizz is caused by dry stray hairs, which lift above the head in a highly attractive cloud like vision. Although frizz may be cute on lambs and puppies, the majority of people want silky smooth hair. Coconut oil is amazingly hydrating. Comb in the coconut oil from roots to ends and cover in a towel. Leave on overnight for the best results.
Mouthwash for bad breath
Bad breath is caused by germs and bacteria that accumulate in the mouth. This can be from smoking or simply being in contact with daily bacteria. Swishing coconut oil around your mouth is a great way of killing this stinky bacteria whilst leaving a lovely aroma behind.
Prevent hangnails
Hangnails are those pesky bits of skin that have come away from around your nails. Usually caused by dry skin, applying coconut oil will make hangnails a thing of the past. Mix with mashed up avocado for an even more effective and hydrating mixture.
Help heal fresh tattoos
With its antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties, coconut oil has amazing healing and protective abilities. When a tattoo is fresh, there is the danger of it becoming infected so just gently rubbing coconut oil onto the area will sooth and protect it.
Treatment for athlete’s foot
Athletes foot is a common yet painful fungal infection that is passed easily in moist and wet areas. Coconut oil has strong anti-fungal properties so when used to treat athletes foot, it is very effective. Cover the infected area liberally with coconut oil and cover with a plastic bag to stop the oil from rubbing off. Leave for 2-3 hours and repeat daily until the fungus is all gone.
Combine with salt for a face scrub
Mix sea salt with room temperature coconut oil to make an amazing moisturising and skin healing face scrub. The medium chain fatty acids, proteins and vitamin E in the coconut oil heal damaged skin and lock in moisture. The salt is perfect for removing dead skin and removing blackheads.
Fade age spots
Age spots otherwise known as sunspots and liver spots can appear all over the body and are dark patches of skin usually caused by years of sun exposure. The antioxidants found in coconut oil can greatly reduce age spots when applied every day.
Maintaining animal skin drums
Animal skin drums have a beautiful sound, however they require a little maintenance when played a lot and to ensure that they last as many years as they potentially can. Brush coconut oil liberally onto your drum to keep the skin moist and supple, which makes the best sound.
Natural toothpaste
Most big brand toothpastes contain some pretty scary ingredients such as sodium fluoride, which can cause brain problems and is found in rat poison. Coconut oil mixed with baking soda can do the job just as well and is much cheaper. Add peppermint, eucalyptus or whatever taste you like for tongue tingling alternatives.
Clean soap scum from showerheads
Layer room temperature coconut oil onto your showerheads and taps and leave to sit for 15-20 minutes (the longer the better). The oil will soften the soap scum so that it is easy to wipe away. Be careful to make sure that the oil is wiped away as it can solidify in cold weather and block pipes.
Help inflamed skin or rashes
The anti-inflammatories found in coconut oil helps to soothe inflamed skin and rashes. It not only reduces the pain and soreness but also helps to heal the skin with the fatty acids and proteins that it contains. The oil also protects the rash or inflamed skin from the sun so helps to prevent long term scarring.
Help prevent Alzheimer’s
Recent studies have shown that coconut oil may be able to actually prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The oil increases the body’s production of insulin and boosts thyroid function, which increases energy. Coconut oil also boosts ketones in the body, which improves the functioning of the brain.
Soothe sore muscles
Massaging coconut oil into sore muscles will ease pain and loosen the joints whilst introducing moisture into the affected area. The anti-inflammatory properties will also help to reduce the inflammation.
Add nutrition and calories to smoothies
A smoothie every day is the best way to get all of your ‘5 a day’ in one quick and delicious dose. What you put in your morning smoothie is really important to make sure that you get the most vitamins and minerals possible. Add coconut oil as well as hemp seeds, goji berries, spirulina and acai for those superfood energy boosts.
Polish leather furniture
Coconut oil conditions leather and keeps it smooth and shiny. As well as maintaining leather, old leather can be restored by rubbing the oil into the surface. As coconut oil is gentle, it will not disturb the balance of the oils that are already inside the leather.
Remove chewing gum
Chewing gum stuck in hair or carpet can be a complete nightmare and it may seem like you have no choice but to cut it out. Coconut oil however miraculously can remove it from the fibers or hair strands. Lather on the oil liberally and leave for 5-10 minutes then simply wipe off with a cloth.
Clear earwax build-up
A buildup of earwax cannot only prohibit hearing but also looks unsightly. Coconut oil can soften hardened wax due to the medium fatty acids, which loosen the molecules and enable it to dissolve away naturally without any invasive procedures. It also can kill bacteria caused by the buildup of the earwax.
Dark Eye Circles
Coconut oil under your eyes can remove the dark circles effectively and safely. Just massage the room temperature coconut oil into the skin and leave for 2-3 hours. Simply rinse off with cold water and repeat every day until you see the desired results.
Foot moisturiser
Coconut oil is fantastic at soothing dry and cracked feet especially when combined with shea butter. Honey also is a good addition. Add the ingredients into warm water and soak your feet for as long as you desire (the longer the better). Scrub your feet with an exfoliating cloth or glove. Repeat until all dead skin is gone.
De-grease Hands
When your hands are covered in grease from cooking often average washing up liquid and soap does not remove it. Coconut oil is a natural degreasing agent. Just wipe a teaspoon of the oil over your hands and the grease will magically dissolve away. Rinse off and your hands will be grease free and smelling of the tropics.
Remove a tight ring
Fingers expand in hot weather, meaning that rings can become impossible to remove. Simply put coconut oil around the area and twist the ring around until the oil has slid underneath the ring. Move the ring up and down slowly until the ring slides off.
Polish metal
Coconut oil makes a great metal polish. It brings out the colour especially in bronze pieces and makes the metal glimmer as if it were brand new. Simply put some coconut oil onto a piece of fabric and rub onto the metal in a circular motion. Repeat until you have the desired result.
Homemade vapour rub
Vapour rub is amazing for relieving the symptoms of a cold and opening the nasal passageways. To make a homemade vapour rub melt beeswax in a pan until it is melted. Add the coconut oil and pour into a seal tight container for storage. Rub onto the chest to relieve congestion.
Shiny dog coats
Coconut oil is safe and tasty for dogs and will make their coat shiny and soft. If your dog has dry skin then the oil will also moisturise and stop them from itching and causing rashes. What makes coconut oil even more amazing for dogs is that it repels fleas.
Soothe haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids are an incredibly painful condition caused by inflamed veins in and around the anus. Coconut oil contains anti-inflammatories and antibacterials so soothes and prevents infection. It is also natural and safe to use around such a sensitive area. Consuming the oil orally also will help to keep your intestines working well and prevent constipation and harmful bacteria, which can cause haemorrhoids.
Condition horse tails
Coconut oil moisturises deeply into a horse’s thick mane and tail hair keeping it shiny and beautiful. Horses also love the taste of the oil, so adding it to their food will provide them with lots of nutrients and healthy acids and fats which will help their hair to grow.
Alternative to milk in coffee
Coconut oil or/and coconut milk is a great and tasty alternative to milk in your coffee. Coconut oil boosts your energy as it contains medium chain triglycerides, which are absorbed quickly and turn into energy fast. It also boosts your metabolism and helps your immune system.
Overnight hair conditioner
Are you searching for a real deep conditioning treatment for dry and damaged hair? Well yet again coconut oil is the answer. It has proteins, moisturising properties, vitamins and acids that strengthen hair and prevent breakage. Simply massage into the roots and comb through. Cover with a towel or shower cap and leave on overnight.
Remove sticky patches from furniture
To remove sticky patches from furniture throw the chemical and toxic substances away because coconut oil will do the trick! Mix the coconut oil with baking soda to create a paste. Rub liberally onto the sticky patch and it will quickly remove the sticker and leave the surface clean and smelling sweet.
Aid in digestion
Coconut oil is a colon cleanser and research has shown that it can relieve the symptoms of many digestive disorders such as crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The antimicrobial properties inside the coconut help to kill harmful bacteria that can cause digestion problems.
Stimulate breast milk production
Mothers who eat coconut oil have been found to have drastically more lauric and capric acids in their breast milk, which makes for healthier and more nutritious milk. The coconut oil promotes the production of milk and can boost the energy of both mother and child.
Brew to help sleep
Melting two teaspoons of coconut oil into herbal tea can help to give you a good night’s sleep. The oil itself contains fatty acids, which help to promote the production of sleep hormones. An additional benefit is that coconut oil before bed will help your body to burn fats whilst you sleep so you can keep that diet going even in your dreams.
Make baby oil
Coconut oil is perfect for babies as it is gentle and soft and most importantly natural. It is a wonderful cure for nappy rash as the antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties will prevent infection and promote healing. It also deeply moisturises your baby’s skin so is perfect for a bath lotion and for dry conditions like cradle cap.
Soothe sore, dry elbows
Wintertime as well as lots of sun exposure can cause dry skin all over the body especially on the joints. Simply massage coconut oil into your sore and dry elbows to relieve pain and deeply moisturise the area. Apply daily until the dryness is gone.
To wake up in the morning
Coconut oil should be a part of your morning routine, as it will make you feel energised and fresh. Eat a couple of spoons to enjoy the natural energisers that it contains, wash your face with it to leave you with smooth moisturised skin, and swish it around your mouth before you brush your teeth for great smelling breath and whitened teeth.
Weight loss supplement
Coconut oil is the most fat friendly oil around and as it is made of mainly medium chain fatty acids which boost metabolism rates, it is an excellent accompaniment to any diet. Many reasons for weight gain is problems with the thyroid. Coconut oil helps the thyroid to work well and therefore enables you to lose weight more easily.
Treat sore eyes
Coconut oil is a gentle and effective treatment for sore eyes. Rub around the irritated eye and leave on overnight. It will help to heal the dry skin that is caused by rubbing. It is good for stys and pink eye, as the antibacterial agents it contains will prevent infection.
To help regulate diabetes
Coconut oil has a drastic effect on sugar levels and on consumption it can reduce the levels of sugar from dangerous to normal again. Coconut oil is also used to ease the symptoms of other chronic diseases such as crohn’s disease, heart disease and chronic fatigue.
Treatment for hives
Hives can a debilitating skin disorder and for sufferers it can feel like there is no cure. With it’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil can really help to relieve the skin from the itchiness that is caused by the hives as well as reducing the swelling.
Speed up healing of ear infections
The natural antibacterial and antiviral properties in coconut oil mean that it can heal many kinds of infection and infections in delicate ears is no exception. Safe to put on any part of the body, coconut oil cannot only loosen wax, which can contain bacteria but also heal.
To make tasty candy
For a healthy treat for all the family replace heavy milk products with coconut. Simply melt together ¾ cup of coconut oil, ¾ cup of coconut butter with whatever flavours that you like. Pumpkin pie mix, dark chocolate and mashed bananas are delicious options. Pour the mixture into moulds and place in the freezer for yummy melting candies.
For pregnant mothers
The side effects of pregnancy can be rather debilitating such as morning sickness, constipation and heartburn. Coconut oil can help to relieve symptoms if just two tablespoons are taken every day. It removes harmful bacteria and helps the digestive system to work well.
Natural insect repellent
Most insect repellents spell vile and the countless toxic ingredients may make you wary as to what you are putting on you and your family’s skin. For a completely natural and cheap way of keeping those bugs away simply melt coconut oil and add to tea tree oil. Pour into a spray bottle and use all over the body.
Soothe Sunburn
When bad sunburn occurs it can be not only painful but also look unsightly, and that hot date that you had planned may have to be cancelled due to you looking like a tomato. Applying coconut oil to the sunburned area will not only soothe the pain due to its antibacterial properties but will also moisturise the skin and help the redness to go faster.
Reduce Puffy Skin
Puffy skin around the eyes and the face in the mornings is a common problem. Combine two tablespoons of coconut oil with one tablespoon of lemon juice, two tablespoons of espresso and two tablespoons of cocoa. Apply to your face and leave for a few minutes to sink in. Rinse off and your face will have had a kick start for the day.
Soothe breastfeeding mother’s nipples
The wonders of coconut oil strike again as it is an amazing healer for breastfeeding mother’s nipples. Breastfeeding can be extremely painful and difficult at the beginning and baby’s aggressive tactics at getting milk can leave nipples sore and injured. Apply coconut oil to a cotton pad and tape over the nipple. Leave on until the next feed. Repeat every day to soothe and heal the area.
Add to shampoo
Adding coconut oil to your shampoo is a great trick for adding moisture to your hair. Leave the shampoo on your scalp for a little longer than usual to help the oil to permeate the hair. The oil also creates a thicker and more luxurious lather, which makes your shower experience ever the more enjoyable.
Reduce Chafing
For areas where chafing occurs such as between the legs or under the arms, apply a small amount of coconut oil. This not only acts as a natural antiperspirant (which is great during sport) but also lubricates the area preventing sores and dry skin.
Metabolism booster
Unlike most foods, which contain long chain fatty acids, coconut oil contains nearly all medium chain fatty acids. These medium chain fatty acids are digested and absorbed differently. They produce energy faster that helps to speed up your metabolism.
Prevent Freezer Burn
Although freezer burn does not destroy food, it appears as greyish spots especially on the surface of sauces due to air exposure. Applying a thin layer of coconut oil to the top of food before it enters the freezer will provide an airtight seal which will protect it from freezer burn.