Coconut Oil

Do you enjoy sipping on the soothing and refreshing coconut water on a hot summer day? Or do you like munching on raw white coconut meat for a snack? Full of nutrition and added benefits, coconut oil or Cocus nucifera, originated from countries in South East Asia. Sources call this tropical fruit the Swiss Army Knife of the entire plant kingdom as it not only serves as a source of nutrition but is also a portable water source and becomes a floating device as well. Coconut oil is made by drying the white meat of coconut followed by the extraction of oil. Coconut oil has been serving the mankind for over 4000 years and is still a staple in every household. Maybe you can find some in your kitchen cupboard too. Coconut does not only hold commercial value but by virtue of its nutritious value, it is consumed as both food and medicine.

Coconut oil is rich in a fatty acid called lauric acid. This substance has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties which makes it the best weapon to fight off pathogens and boost immunity. Coconut also restores the natural balance in the gut microbiome, otherwise disrupted by the use of antibiotics and inflammatory foods. The fatty acids in coconut oil are readily absorbed and improve digestion. (2) Jennifer Aniston from Friends and Emma Stone from The Amazing Spider-Man are among many celebrities who use coconut oil religiously and benefit from it. (3)

Your hair is more prone to damage when you wash it. The cuticle of the hair absorbs water and swells up which makes wet hair fragile and can easily be damaged, this is known as hygral fatigue. Applying coconut oil while washing hair prevents the cuticle from absorbing too much water and reduces the friction between the hair strands while styling them. Coconut oil also reduces protein loss from hair else ways the hair will become dry and brittle. This will ultimately reduce the damage done to your hair. (4)

Anti-fungal properties of lauric acid are essential in eliminating fungal infections. It adds moisture to your scalp which reduces dandruff, irritation, flaking, and itching. Coconut oil also stabilizes the scalp microbiome and soothes the scalp. (5) Evidence shows that coconut oil stimulates collagen production which repairs the skin barrier that repels infections. It also removes sebum and dirt accumulated in the hair follicles. (6)

The oil acts as an emollient and makes the skin texture smooth. Coconut oil is 90% saturated fat which locks in moisture and prevents excess water loss. Reduced dryness of skin helps treat eczema which is a skin condition with scaly and itchy patches. Coconut oil is readily absorbed into the skin and hydrates the skin instantly. (7)

The antibacterial properties of coconut oil prevent bacterial infection at the wound site. Coconut oil stimulates the production of collagen which is a key component for healing wounds. It also fades acne scars and the antioxidant properties of coconut oil protect the skin from free radical damage. (8)

Medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil have anti-inflammatory properties which fight off acne and reduce inflammation. Lauric acid prevents acne-causing bacteria from growing and is more effective than benzoyl peroxide which is a common ingredient in skincare products that reduce acne. (8)

Coconut is a tropical fruit grown in regions close to the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The fruit is rich in saturated fatty acids, vitamins, and other essential components. Not only does coconut oil maintain your gut health but it is also equally beneficial for your skin and hair. Coconut oil restores the natural gut and skin microbiome as well strengthens the protective barrier of the skin. It moisturizes the skin, treats wounds and acne scars, and makes the wrinkles and fine lines less prominent. You should also incorporate a moderate amount of coconut oil in your diet to stay healthy.

1. A Brief History Of Coconut Oil – Tidal Imports & Exports [Internet]. Tidal Imports & Exports.[cited 2 December 2021]. Available from: http://www.tidalimpex.com/blog/brief-history-coconut-oil/
2. Salis S. Superfood for your gut [Internet]. Deccan Herald. 2020 [cited 2 December 2021]. Available from: https://www.deccanherald.com/living/health-and-well-being/superfood-for-your-gut-797775.html
3. Houe K. 25 Weird Things Celebrities Have Done With Coconut Oil [Internet]. The Cut. 2014 [cited 2 December 2021]. Available from: https://www.thecut.com/2014/10/25-things-celebrities-have-done-with-coconut-oil.html
4. 1. West H. Benefits of Using Coconut Oil in Your Hair [Internet]. Healthline. 2021 [cited 2 December 2021]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coconut-oil-and-hair#TOC_TITLE_HDR_4
5. Iftikhar N. Coconut Oil for Hair Growth: Research, Efficacy, and More [Internet]. Healthline. 2019 [cited 2 December 2021]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/coconut-oil-for-hair-growth#for-the-hair
6. Wong C. The Benefits of Coconut Oil for Hair [Internet]. Verywell Health. 2021 [cited 2 December 2021]. Available from: https://www.verywellhealth.com/coconut-oil-for-your-hair-4171883
7. Coconut Oil for Skin: 10 Benefits, How to Use [Internet]. Fleur & Bee. 2020 [cited 2 December 2021]. Available from: https://fleurandbee.com/blogs/news/coconut-oil-for-skin
8. Link R. Is Coconut Oil Good for Your Skin? [Internet]. Healthline. 2017 [cited 2 December 2021]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coconut-oil-and-skin#TOC_TITLE_HDR_7