Yes, I too bathe in Coconut Oil.

Can you blame me?

The coconut tree is considered the “tree of life” in much of Southeast Asia, India, the Philippines, and other tropical locations. And today, there are over 1,500 studies proving the health benefits of coconut oil. Coconut oil is such a staple in my household. So, I had to research more ways to get the maximum use out of my many, (well just three), containers of liquid gold.

Here is what I found: 

Most of the fats in coconut oil are saturated but they are in the form of MCTs (Medium Chain Triglycerides, also called MCFAs), which affect the body differently than short and long chain fats. The MCTs are composed of:

• Lauric Acid– This beneficial fat makes up 40% of the total fat composition, making it one of nature’s highest natural sources. The body converts lauric acid to monolaurin, which is beneficial for immune function.
• Caprylic Acid– Another healthy fat with antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
• Capric Acid– This converts to monocaprin in the body and has immune boosting and antimicrobial properties.

Some of the not so common benefits of coconut oil include:

• Helping to soothe psoriasis or eczema
• In place of Lanolin cream on nursing nipples to sooth irritation (also great for baby!)
• As a cloth diaper safe diaper cream
• To help avoid stretch marks during pregnancy
• To get rid of cradle cap on baby- just massage on scalp
• It has anti-inflammatory properties which can help lessen arthritis
• Oil pulling with coconut oil and a drop of oregano oil helps improve gum health
• Can help reduce appearance of varicose veins when used topically
• Can reduce the itch of mosquito bites
• Add menthol for a homemade vapor rub
• Make homemade soap
• On hands to avoid dry skin
• Rub into leather to soften & give shine
• Immune Support– The MCTs (including lauric acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid) have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties that make it beneficial for immune support.
• Digestive Help– The high concentration of beneficial fats in coconut oil make it helpful for digestion. Its antimicrobial properties can help fight irritation and infection in the gut from Candida.
• Hormone Support– Getting the wrong kinds of fats can create havoc on hormones. Coconut oil contains specific fats that support the body’s natural hormone production.
• Mental Boost– MCTs are also well known for their ability to contribute to focus and mental performance. Adding coconut oil to a drink in the morning can help improve mental performance all day.

What ways do you use your coconut oil? Let me know below.

Oh, how I love you. Let me count thee ways.