Coconut Oil is certainly having its moment in the spotlight. This versatile oil is being touted as a cure-all in health food stores and in the beauty aisle. You may be surprised by some of its uses.
- Serves as Shaving Cream
Coconut oil can serve as shaving cream for both men and women. Women will find that their legs and bikini lines are smoother after using the oil to shave. Men who have facial hair can apply some in their beard before a shower and will find that their beards are softer and easier to style.
- Soothes Burns and Rashes
Anyone with a baby knows how painful a diaper rash is for little ones. Coconut oil can help to soothe the rash and in some cases even do away with it altogether. It can also help with minor burns, like the ones you earn in the kitchen.
- Removes Makeup
This oil acts as the perfect solution for removing eye makeup. Apply a few dabs to a cotton ball after washing your face and your eye makeup will come right off. You can continue to use the oil on the rest of your face as a moisturizer.
- Cooking Oil
Coconut oil has a high smoking point and, after becoming oxidized by heat, is resistant to turning rancid. How much it affects the flavor of your food will depend on how much you use. It can be especially delicious in curries, soups, and stews.
- Reduces Cravings
When taken as a health tonic, coconut oil can help reduce sugar cravings. Some people claim that, after ingesting the oil, they can endure longer periods of time between meals without experiencing drops in blood sugar.
- Bolsters Immune System
Coconut Oil contains lauric acid, which helps to eliminate fungus, bacteria, and viruses. Breast milk is the only other known source of natural lauric acid.
- Boosts Memory and Brain Function
Research proves that coconut oil is a simple and effective way to prevent diseases that attack the brain. Coconut oil can be ingested daily in order to nourish the brain. Studies are currently underway to see if the oil can help combat Alzheimer’s and other memory-related illnesses.
- Moisturizes Skin
Coconut oil feels great on your skin and keeps it soft and healthy looking. It can also be used to minimize stretch marks and heal visible scars.
- Restores Thyroid Function and Balances Hormones
Consuming coconut oil on a regular basis can help to restore normal thyroid function. Coconut oil helps transport hormones to the proper cells in the body.
- Protection from the Sun
Around 20% of ultraviolet light is reflected by coconut oil. In fact, many early sunscreens and lotions included the oil as their primary ingredient. Smoothing some over your skin daily is a great way to shield your skin and not expose yourself to the chemicals in standard sunscreen.
