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Structure of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is composed primarily of saturated fatty acid molecules, which are fatty acid molecules that contain no double or triple bonds. It is used to treat a variety of ailments by doctors worldwide, and owes many of its properties to the presence of these molecules.

  1. Medium Chain Fatty Acids

    • Coconut oil is healthier than other saturated oils because it contains what are known as medium chain fatty acids. These are principally in the form of lauric acid (which constitutes 50 percent or more of coconut oil), but also capric, caproic, caprylic and myristic acid.

    Digestion

    • Unlike other vegetable and unsaturated oils, coconut oil does not contain long chain fatty acids. This means that coconut oil is easier to digest because it requires less energy and fewer enzymes.

    Antimicrobial Properties

    • The chemical composition of coconut oil also endows it with antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Coconut oil can improve the immune response and is used to treat patients suffering from Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It also helps in the retention and absorption of amino acids and minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

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