Coconut oil possesses antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial and antioxidant properties. The lauric, capric and caprylic acids within the oil are credited with many of these benefits. It’s the lauric acid, for instance, that is converted into monolaurin, which in turn fights the bugs associated with herpes, giardia, listeria, influenza, and even HIV.
Coconut oil benefits truly are many, and it doesn’t take much. Just a tablespoon or so a day could make significant differences in health. Coconut oil for Alzheimer’s has been proven especially beneficial.
Topically, coconut oil can be used on the skin and hair. For the skin, it’s great for soothing dryness and even irritation from rashes. It is also good for fighting wrinkles and signs of ageing. Common skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema are addressed, along with removing makeup without the use of chemicals.
Used on your hair, coconut oil can increase shine and reduce static electricity. It can also be used as a scalp massage to eliminate flaking and itchy dry scalp.
Most people use coconut internally. And it’s here we see the majority of its benefits. Potential internal benefits of coconut oil include:
- Anti-cancer
- Dental health, including cavity prevention
- Diabetes management
- Weight loss
- Improved digestion
- Increased immune function
- Heart disease prevention
Best of all, coconut oil is easy to add to your daily regimen. Use it in sauteing vegetables, raw in smoothies and juices, and in your baking and cooking. (But never let it burn or smoke!) Its flavour goes well with sweet dishes, and it can temper a spicy dish as well.
Hippocrates Organic Coconut Oil is available.
