Crazy for Coconut Oil

If you like Piña Coladas…and extra moisturizing body cream; If you’re into whitening your teeth after yoga… and want to boost your brain–ok, it’s not exactly the Jimmy Buffet tune we all love, but the point is, coconut oil is the ingredient you’ve been waiting for!

This natural super ingredient has been on the rise for the past few years and has a laundry list of all natural uses. The reason why coconut oil is so versatile is because of its lauric, capric and caprylic acid composition.  When all of these elements are combined it grants coconut oil the natural antioxidant, antifungal, anti bacterial and antimicrobial properties that we love.

Before getting into the different remedies, it is important that you buy the correct coconut oil. There are two different kinds of coconut oil, both of which can be found in any Whole Foods or natural products store. The best all-purpose coconut oil is unrefined virgin coconut oil. This type is usually organic, pure and can be used for both internal and external uses. If you are just looking to use the ingredient externally refined coconut oil will do the job. Now lets get to the remedies! Below is a list of a few of our favorite uses for coconut oil:

1)    Body and Face Moisturizer

The high level of antioxidants, antibacterial and moisturizing properties of coconut oil make it the best moisturizer. I have been using it on my face for the past two weeks and aside from the initial greasy feeling (which goes away quickly) I have nothing but great things to say. It keeps your skin clear and locks in the moisture!

2)    Hair Care Treatment

Spare yourself the static and split ends by conditioning your hair with coconut oil 10 minutes before a shower. The oil will deep condition your hair and leave it feeling soft all day long.

3)    Cooking

Reduce the amount of calories in your every day recipes by substituting vegetable oil with coconut oil. This tropical oil has a high smoking point, which makes it perfect for sautéing you favorite summer vegetables–and it will make your home smell delicious!

4)    Coffee or Tea Condiment

There are multiple recipes around the Internet, like this Coconut Oil Latte concoction on My Crazy Good Life and recommendations from celebrities like Miranda Kerr. Studies have shown that taking 2 tablespoons of coconut oil a day can help to improve your over all health. Using one of the tablespoons in your morning beverage is one way to get your daily dose.

5)    Body Scrub

Coconut oil can be used along with sugar to help create a moisturizing base to any DIY body scrub.

6)    Alleviate Allergy Symptoms

It is said that if coconut oil is rubbed on the inside of your nose it may help to relieve seasonal allergy symptoms.

7)    Soothe a Sore Throat

If you’re voice starts sounding a little raspy, put Miranda Kerr’s coconut oil and tea recipe to the test. The antioxidants and antimicrobial properties of coconut oil can help to fight off a sore throat.

8)    Bug Repellant

When you’re in a pinch coconut oil can be used as a natural insect repellant when combined with other natural oils. If you’re looking to make your own bug repellant try this bug balm recipe by Delicious Obsessions.

9)    Clears Up Cold Sores and can be used as a lip moisturizer

If your lips are a little chapped or if an annoy cold sore comes up, put a little coconut oil on them. The cold sore will clear up and your lips will be fully moisturized in the matter of one night’s sleep.

10) Leather Conditioner

Put a little bit of coconut oil on your fingertips and then massage it into one of your leather bags. It will condition the bag to its former glory and give it a nice healthy shine. You may want to consult the maker of the bag or a leather goods shop on if your particular bag will take to this before trying.

We know the uses for coconut oil are endless–are there any coconut oil remedies that you use regularly in your house.