5 Great Uses for Coconut Oil

It seems like every year there’s a new miracle food exploding onto the market, sought after by the masses for its weight loss, beautifying or healing properties. And while some of these products may actually work and can hold their own, many of them just fizzle out of popularity until the next big thing comes along.

But there’s one true superfood that has stood the test of time and lives up to its extraordinary reputation: coconut oil. For those who know about the many great uses for coconut oil, there’s no replacement for this natural, life-improving supplement. Beauticians, health and fitness gurus, medical experts and massage therapists vigilantly stand by the oil, using it for everything from anti-aging treatments and skin hydration to hair restoration, teeth whitening and more.

Here are just 5 amazing uses for coconut oil, all of which will help you reduce the need for and replace some of those expensive, unnatural (and often ineffective) health and beauty products you have piling up in the bathroom:

Skin Care:

Coconut oil is widely known to be a major proponent to healthy, beautiful skin. Applying a small amount of coconut oil to the face helps keeps skin smooth and hydrated, and it reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and blemishes. It can be applied over the makeup for a healthy, natural-looking shine; and can even help remove stubborn eye makeup. It’s also a great alternative to toxic sunscreens (with an SPF of about 10) so it’s an excellent way to protect your skin from damaging UV rays.

Hair Care:

People have been using coconut oil to restore hair, beautify and condition their hair for thousands of years. Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft, as well as the scalp, for deeper moisturization and vital replenishment. It’s known to repair and minimize split ends, dandruff and psoriasis, and is even said to prevent greying and blading. Most shampoos and conditioners today are made with coconut oil because it gives hair a healthy, beautiful shine. It also locks in moisture, restores vitality and smells great!

Bites, Rashes and Burns:

Coconut oil is great for soothing minor scrapes, cuts, insect bites and burns. Applying a small amount of coconut oil to affected areas will reduce inflammation, itching and overall discomfort. It has excellent anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties that will minimize the chances of infection or further spreading, so it makes a great addition to any medicine cabinet or first aid kit, especially in an outdoor setting where, sunburn, insect bites and other skin irritations are likely to occur.

Oil Pulling:

Swishing a small amount of coconut oil in the mouth for a few minutes every morning is known to have a remarkable effect on the teeth and gums. The oil penetrates plaque and helps clean, detoxify and even whiten teeth. Many health experts agree that swishing coconut oil—or oil pulling—on a regular basis is not only good for oral health, but can actually help with arthritis, headaches, bacterial infections, liver problems and more.

Healthier Eating:

Once demonized for being high in saturated fat, coconut oil is now renowned for having remarkable dietary benefits. Using coconut oil in the kitchen is a great way to lower cholesterol and balance body weight. Special fats found in coconut help increase the good HDL cholesterol in the blood and improve liver function for efficient energy burning. It’s an excellent replacement for unhealthy, hydrogenated cooking oils, and can be used in countless recipes—from smoothies and pancakes to baked goods, dressings, sauces and more.

So if you’re looking for new ways to improve your overall health, eating habits and appearance, stock up on unrefined, organic, virgin coconut oil! You can find it at any grocery store or health food store; it’s inexpensive and has virtually unlimited uses.