Coconut can be a conflicting flavor — Almond Joy is not for everyone. Yet for those who love (or can handle) this potent flavor, you may love to hear that coconut oil is an incredibly affordable all-in-one good for total beauty and health reform.
Oil Pulling
Studies have shown oil pulling to improve oral health by reducing bad breath, preventing cavities, plaque and tooth decay, strengthening the gums and reducing inflammation. Oil pulling is a practice from Ayurveda — a holistic medical system that originated in the Indian subcontinent over 3,000 years ago.
To do it, take one tablespoon of cold-pressed virgin coconut oil and swish it around your mouth for around 15 minutes before spitting it out. Do not swallow the bacteria-filled oil. For optimization, do this first thing in the morning before food or water. Follow up with general oral care of brushing your teeth and flossing. The idea is that bacteria are drawn to the chemical structure of oil. The health of the oral cavity has a strong relationship with systemic diseases. In Ayurvedic belief, oil pulling can aid in helping other systemic diseases.
Hair Oiling
A lot of hair products containing coconut oil are described as “hydrating” and “nourishing.” Using coconut oil directly for the hair is great for hydrating it, repairing and preventing split ends, reducing dandruff and managing frizz. The practice of hair oiling is also rooted in Ayurveda and is a long-lasting practice from the Indian subcontinent. It is known to be relaxing while also promoting hair growth and protection by addressing a dry scalp and dandruff.
Try it by heating some coconut oil so that it is a warm (not hot) liquid. Massage the oil into the roots of your hair in a gentle manner. With the remaining oil, spread it down towards the ends of your hair. Leave it in for 30 minutes to an hour. Do not let it sit overnight. After, wash it out with water and shampoo and follow with your usual hair routine. In the Indian subcontinent, oils are naturally infused with other ingredients to promote other benefits like cooling to the head.
Body Oil
Using cold-pressed virgin coconut oil is great for dry skin and can be helpful for skin conditions like eczema. Since coconut oil is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, it may also heal mild wounds. You can use it all over the body for soft, elastic and hydrated skin. After a shower and getting mostly dry, you can use it as a moisturizer. Try to avoid acne-prone areas like the face, skin, and back. Applying it after a day in the sun can help prevent the effect of strong UV rays. Although, it is not a substitute for sunscreen and should not be placed over sunburns.
In Ayurvedic, Abhyanga is the practice of oil massaging. It is said to be relaxing, increase skin blood flow, decrease hyperpigmentation and reduce scars and cellulite. It also can reduce muscle stiffness and promote lymphatic drainage. The lymphatic system removes the body’s waste. It is best to do this before a shower, and there are many online guides on how it’s done.
Cooking Oil
Coconut oil is 100% fat although made up of different kinds of fat. Therefore, in moderation, it can be a good source of healthy, saturated fats. It can also be a boost of energy and is anti-microbial. The American Heart Association recommends around six percent of daily calories from saturated fats. Therefore, depending on an individual’s current diet, using coconut oil as a cooking oil can sometimes be an ideal choice. It can be used for searing, sautéing and even frying. So, if you do not mind a subtle flavor, this can be a good substitute for canola or vegetable oil. Many recipes may also be enhanced with this flavor.
Honorable Mention
There are many other uses for coconut oil beyond those mentioned here. For one, consider coconut oil for your dogs in safe, small quantities. It can provide many similar benefits it does for humans!
Will you be using coconut oil in any of these ways? Let us know on X @VALLEYmag!
