Coconut Oil Facts

Coconut oil has many beneficial uses. The oil is made from pressing coconut meat and extracting the natural juices. People in many tropical locations have eaten coconut oil as a primary source of fat for hundreds of years. Coconut oil is also good for skin, hair, weight loss and healing.

History

• People in central America, Africa, India, Polynesia and Asia have used coconut oil for centuries. Documents from 1500 B.C. reveal that this oil was used for healing and soothing the mind and spirit. It was a key component in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years. Famous explorer James Cook wrote about the virtues of the coconut and coconut oil. After World War II, coconut oil arrived in the U.S. as "coconut butter" and in England as "margarine."

Skin Care

• Coconut oil is often used as a massage oil. The aromatherapy is said to relieve mental stress, and help achieve better mental focus. Coconut oil can be used as a moisturizer for the skin. According to the Coconut Research Center, coconut oil delays wrinkles--preventing the aging process, which would normally become prominent as you get older. Psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema are prevented and treated with coconut oil. Some body care products, such as soap, lotion and creams, contain coconut oil as one of their major ingredients.

Hair Care

• One of the best sources of nutrition for your hair is coconut oil. Coconut oil provides hair with a shiny complexion. Coconut oil is an ingredient in many conditioners and dandruff relief creams--helping repair damaged hair. It also provides essential proteins needed to nourish your hair, and according to the Coconut Research Center, coconut oil can relieve the hair of any dandruff, lice or lice eggs. Coconut oil also has a strong coconut scent that is enjoyed by some people.

Weight Loss

• Coconut oil contains short chain fatty acids that are easily digested. According to the Coconut Research Center, coconut oil helps the thyroid and enzyme systems to maintain healthy functions and removes stress on the pancreases, which causes a boost in metabolism--burning more energy and assisting obese people in losing weight.

Healing

• Coconut oil contains antimicrobial lipids that have anti fungal, antiviral and antibacterial properties--strengthening the immune system. When coconut oil is applied on infections, a chemical layer is formed, protecting the area from dust, air and bacteria. When used the bruises, coconut oil speeds up the healing process by fixing any damaged tissues. According to the Coconut Research Center, this oil can kill the influenza virus, as well as herpes and hepatitis. Throat ulcers, urinary tract infections and ulcers can also be treated with coconut oil. Coconut oil has also been known to help cure diaper rash, ringworm and athlete's foot.