Coconut Oil Beneifts - 10 DIY Coconut Oil Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What is the most effective way to use coconut oil? ›

What is the benefit of taking coconut oil on an empty stomach? Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that will help you feel more energized, curb your appetite, and get your metabolism revved up for your upcoming day.

Like all saturated fats, it should be consumed in moderation. Coconut oil is possibly safe when used as a medicine short-term. Taking coconut oil in doses of 10 mL two or three times daily for up to 12 weeks seems to be safe.

According to dermatologists, it's better to use unrefined coconut oil, specifically one that's been cold-pressed, not expeller-pressed. Cold-pressed coconut oil is thought to contain more nutrients than expeller-pressed, so using the former is more beneficial when it comes to skin care.

However, coconut oil may be linked to some potential benefits for skin, including reducing inflammation, keeping skin moisturized and helping heal wounds. The medium-chain fatty acids found in coconut oil also possess antimicrobial properties that can help treat acne and protect the skin from harmful bacteria.

Relieve Symptoms of Arthritis

Animal research suggests that antioxidants called polyphenols found in coconut oil may be able to relieve some symptoms of arthritis. A study in rats with arthritis found that treatment with polyphenols from coconut oil reduced swelling and several inflammatory markers ( 37 ).

Instead of butter or olive oil, use coconut oil for making your favorite recipes, like smoothies or even desserts. You can also use coconut oil as salad dressings. Ingesting coconut oil 20 minutes prior to mealtime may increase feelings of fullness, curb your appetite and help lose weight.

Steer clear of applying coconut oil to your face, chest, upper back and shoulders, as these areas of skin have the most oil glands, and do test patches on other areas of your body before going all in. "I also don't recommend coconut oil for use as a sunscreen," says Friedler.

Coconut oil for face is popular as it is highly moisturising and can also reduce inflammation, counteract free radical damage and prevent infection. Not only this but coconut oil for face can boost the production of collagen which helps to firm skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

What does coconut oil do for your insides? ›

By dealing with numerous bacteria, fungi, and parasites that may cause indigestion, coconut oil aids in the digestion process and even helps absorb fat soluble vitamins, minerals and some amino acids. When purchasing coconut oil, remember to choose unrefined, cold-pressed coconut oil.

Coconut oil on your belly button may help reduce belly fat. The MCFAs in coconut oil is proposed to give the metabolism a boost. This means you burn more energy and lose weight faster.

Side effects of using coconut oil on your skin

It's hydrating, yes. But that means it can do its job a little too well and clog pores and cause acne breakouts — especially if your skin is more on the oily side. “If you are prone to acne, you should also avoid putting it on your shoulders, chest or back,” Dr. Wu adds.

Here are some of the best time to use virgin coconut oil: At night: It helps in treating insomnia. You can take one tablespoon of virgin coconut oil before going to bed. Empty stomach: Taking virgin coconut oil empty stomach helps in curing stomach inflammation, reduces bacteria and improve digestion.

Coconut oil has been used for centuries as an effective oral hygiene practice. Current research suggests oil pulling with coconut oil (swishing oil in your mouth for 10 to 20 minutes) may reduce bad bacteria in the mouth, prevent gingivitis and tooth decay, and get rid of bad breath. That said, more research is needed.

Olive Oil Is Healthier and More Nutritious

That is because it is rich in good fat (polyunsaturated fat) and low in bad fat (saturated fat). Coconut oil contains 80 to 90 percent saturated fat. According to the experts, a tablespoon of coconut oil contains about six times as much saturated fat as olive oil.

Several studies have shown that virgin coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties, once again due to the high lauric acid levels. This makes coconut oil a good choice for relieving painful joints and muscles, especially after sport.