Health and Beauty Benefits of Coconut Oil

Health & Beauty Benefits of Coconut Oil

Came across this article today, as I have a bottle of coconut oil in the fridge from a previous healthy kick, I can make use of it with these recipes. Here are some of my favourites.

1. Coconut oil for healthy hair.

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Thanks to its moisturizing properties, coconut oil is an amazing natural treatment for the hair and scalp. If your hair is dry or damaged, massage 1-2 tablespoons of oil from roots to tips, wrap the hair in a hot towel and leave it for an hour or so before washing as normal. If your hair tends to frizz, you can also smooth on some coconut oil to tame it.

2. Coconut oil for supple skin.

Coconut oil has been shown to work excellently as a topical skin treatment, helping to moisturize, rejuvenate, and potentially prevent wrinkles. Take a small dollop of virgin coconut oil and rub it between the palms to warm it, then work it gently into the skin on the face or body.

3 .Coconut oil to combat skin conditions.

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As well as using coconut oil as a general moisturizer for skin, it can also be used for more specific skin ailments. Coconut oil has anti-fungal, anti-viral and antibacterial properties making it a useful treatment for conditions like eczema, psoriasis and acne.

4.  DIY coconut oil exfoliant.

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Forget the store-bought scrubs: you can easily make your own from home, and you’ll know exactly what’s going into it. For a super-simple exfoliant mix one part white sugar with one part coconut oil. Apply directly to the body in circular motions to gently remove dry skin. It will simultaneously act as a moisturizer, making the skin smooth and supple.

5. Coconut oil for face masks.

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Coconut oil is filled with vitamins C and E which make it an ideal ingredient for including in DIY face masks at home. For a simple mask, mix 1 tablespoon coconut oil with 2 tablespoons of honey and a squeeze of lemon juice. Apply a thick coat to the face and leave it to soak in for 10 minutes before rinsing off.

 6. Coconut oil for a faster metabolism.

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Coconut oil is reportedly useful in increasing the body’s metabolic rate. It contains medium-chain fatty acids that speed up the metabolism and potentially aid in weight loss and weight control. Some studies have also found that consumption of coconut oil is helpful in reducing abdominal obesity.

7. Coconut oil for cooking.

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While olive oil is traditionally used for cooking, it is actually known to oxidize at high temperatures. This can lead to the creation of free radicals. Coconut oil, meanwhile, is more resistant to heat, making it safer and healthier to use in cooking.

8.  Coconut oil to beat sugar cravings.

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Getting enough good quality fats in your diet means you’re more likely to feel satiated. If you’re trying to lower your sugar intake but are being beaten by cravings, try eating a small spoonful of coconut oil. It’ll give you energy without causing a merry-go-round of spiking glucose levels.

For more info see:

 http://funorfacts.org/top-10-healthy-beauty-benefits-of-coconut-oil/2/