Oil from the coconut fruit has many uses.
The coconut (Cocos nucifera) has been used in traditional medicine by people around the world for thousands of years, and is used topically or taken internally. The oil of the nut (fruit) has health benefits due to its fiber and nutritional content. Coconut oil is made up mostly of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA), also known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), which do not have a negative effect on cholesterol levels, according to the Coconut Research Center website.
Healing
Coconut oil helps strengthen the immune system, because it contains lauric, capric, and caprylic acids, and antimicrobial lipids that provide antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral benefits. Coconut oil kills viruses that cause the flu, measles, herpes and hepatitis. It also kills bacteria that cause throat and urinary tract infections (UTIs), as well as pneumonia. Additionally, coconut oil is beneficial in providing relief from kidney problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic fatigue, and thyroid conditions.
Food Preparation
Using coconut oil to stir-fry or saute is a healthy alternative. Coconut oil helps in the absorption of vitamins, minerals and amino acids. The oil is stable and has a high tolerance for heat, which prevents it from being denatured and unhealthy. High heat can cause trans fats in other oils, but coconut oil maintains its healthy properties. Coconut oil can also be used raw in smoothies, shakes, dressings, sauces, and as an alternative to butter.
Skin Care
Coconut oil is an effective moisturizer for all skin types, and is beneficial in preventing dryness. As a massage oil, the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties provide a remedy for skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, diaper rash, and acne. Due to its antioxidant properties, coconut oil helps prevent degenerative diseases that cause premature aging, making it beneficial as a sunscreen. Coconut oil is also used to remove makeup and as a lip balm.
Hair Care
Coconut oil is also used as a hair conditioner. By massaging coconut oil onto the scalp, it helps prevent dandruff. The oil provides essential proteins to help repair damaged hair. Additionally, coconut oil is added to manufactured products such as hair conditioners, shampoos and soaps.
Weight Loss
The MCFAs in coconut oil may help with weight loss. By eliminating stress on the pancreas, coconut oil increases metabolism. It also contains fewer calories than other oils, and has a fat content that is easily converted into energy and not stored as fat. Coconut oil is easy to digest, and is beneficial in maintaining healthy functioning thyroid and enzyme systems.
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