We Need To Talk About Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is probably the single most diverse and universally-celebrated natural beauty product on the market. Everyone in the wellness world knows how good this stuff is for your skin when used both inside and out, but now Western medicine and conventional research are catching up to lore.

A study published by the University of Oxford suggests that the Alzheimer’s and dementia patients benefit from ingesting coconut oil (coconut oil is high in ketones, a natural byproduct of fat metabolism, which play an important role in brain health and may improve cognitive function).

When applied topically, coconut oil acts as a moisturizer for both hair and skin. Studies show that long-term topical use improves the lipid content of the dermis (further studies suggest that it can reduce the appearance of cellulite, as well). When the oil is pure, it’s gentle enough to use on even the most sensitive skin, and it works best at night, when any sleekness can be absorbed into pores overnight. Coconut oil is also super-moisturizing for hair when applied as a 15 minute pre-shower hair mask, or when used as a finishing cream after heat-styling (use it to tame fly aways, but stay away from your roots, where excess oil can build up).

Coconut oil has also been linked to increased energy levels and decreased incidents of infection. Its natural anti-microbial properties are the reason why the Ayurvedic practice of oil pulling works– using coconut oil as a mouthwash reduces bad breath and improves overall dental health by killing harmful bacteria. When it comes to coconut oil, the possibilities are endless– eat it, use it as mouthwash, put it on your hair, rub it on your body, use it to soften your cuticles… Just remember to purchase extra virgin, fair-trade coconut oil where possible, as these designations help insure that the coconuts come from forests that won’t be harmed by their harvest. We promise: it’s worth the added expense.