10 things you could use coconut oil for that you may not know about!

Coconut oil has seen a huge rise in popularity in recent years as it is rich in antioxidant and anti ageing properties along with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory qualities that make it a powerful aid to support skin and hair health, improve digestive disturbances and promote balancing of the immune system.

It contains medium-chain fatty acids like lauric and caprylic acid, which unlike regular saturated fats are actually beneficial for the body. They increase the metabolic rate aiding in weight management, increase the level of good cholesterol and lower the level of bad cholesterol.

It can also assist in the balancing of insulin and blood sugar levels giving you stable energy levels throughout the day.

We are all aware of how coconut oil is great as a skin moisturiser and teeth whitener (oil pulling have been widely discussed in the press lately). Let’s not forget of course that it can be used for cooking savoury and sweet recipes. But there are many less known uses for it. Here are some you may have not come across.

Bruises

Coconut oil speeds up the healing process by repairing the damage tissues helping a bruise fading away faster. Just apply directly on the skin 2-3 times a day.

Age spots lightener

If used regularly, coconut oil helps reducing and prevent the appearance of age spots thanks to its antioxidant content. Massage the oil on the spots with circular movements.

Sunburn healing

Applied on skin, it has calming and cooling properties as it contains lauric acid that help the tissues heal. Redness, itching and swelling will be visibly reduced.

Homemade deodorant

Mixed with baking soda, arrowroot or cornstarch and essential oils, coconut oil makes a great chemical-free natural deodorant thanks to its antimicrobial properties. Many recipes can be easily found online, just experiment to find your favourite.

Natural toothpaste

Similar principle to the deodorant process, mixed with baking soda and peppermint or cinnamon essential oils, it makes a perfect toothpaste. You can add powdered xylitol to give a sweeter taste to it and store in a glass jar. It has the same antibacterial effect of store-bought ones that contain synthetic ingredients.

Eye makeup remover

Simply warm up a teaspoon of coconut oil between your fingers until melted and then massage on your eyelids in circular motions. Wipe off with a wet washcloth or cotton, rinse with warm water and your eyes will be cleansed and fresh.

Hair conditioner

Coconut oil helps strengthen hair by stimulating blood circulation to the scalp and re-growth.

It will bring out your hair natural shine. For best results, once or twice a week massage one tablespoon on your hair, leave overnight and shampoo as usual in the morning.

Helps soothe psoriasis and eczema symptoms

Use internally and externally. Externally, massage on skin to soothe dry flaky skin and psoriasis outbreaks thanks to its anti fungal and antibacterial power. Internally, consume one tablespoon a day to get the same powerful benefits in the gut as intestinal flora imbalances are often linked to inflammation that can lead to the development of skin conditions.

Aids clearing up of cold sores

Consume one tablespoon of coconut oil a day to help the elimination of the virus from the body and shorten the length of outbreaks. Also put on directly on the cold sore to prevent the crust from breaking and bleeding.

Reduces itch from mosquito bites

Coconut oil works very well to reduce itchiness and redness from a mosquito bite after a summer day spent in the park. Apply topically to experience fast relief.