This coconut oil thing is no fad, that is for sure. Coconut meat, milk, juice and oil have been used for thousands of years by people living in the tropics for food and medicinal purposes. Spanish explorers called this wonderful health promoting nut “monkey face,” for the three indents on its front that resemble a monkey’s face.
Its scientific name is Cocos nucifera and it means “nut-bearing.” Coconuts have a long and respected history throughout numerous cultures in the world and many depend on it for their survival. Pacific islanders refer to coconut oil as a cure for all illnesses and many call it the “healthiest oil on earth.”
The coconut palm, which produces the coconut, is known as “The Tree of Life,” and although many people have been aware of this nut’s amazing nutritional quality they may not know that it is a “functional food.”
Functional foods are those that are not only high in vitamins, mineral and fiber but also possess healing properties. Modern medicine and science is finally catching up with tradition and uncovering the real story behind the coconut and why everyone should use it. As a result of increasing research, many people are responding and starting to replace other oils in their home with coconut oil – this is good news.
However, there is more good news. Coconut oil should not just be kept in the kitchen. Here are five ways you may have never thought that you can use extra virgin organic coconut oil. Better stock up!
Deodorant
Make your own homemade deodorant using coconut oil, baking soda, arrowroot and essential oils. Simply mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of arrowroot and enough melted coconut oil to make a thick paste like glue. Put 20 drops of lavender essential oil for a fresh smell. Store in a small glass jar. Reapply as often as needed during the day.
Eczema and Psoriasis
Coconut oil is loaded with antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that help to prevent infection and heal damaged skin. The healthy vitamins and nutrients in the oil include lauric acid and vitamins K and E which reduce itching and promote healing. This is a chemical-free alternative to synthetic treatments that only mask the problem.
Yeast Infections
Yeast infections are uncomfortable and occur in both men and women. Although over the counter and prescription medications are available, coconut oil can heal these infections naturally. The strong antifungal properties in coconut oil kill the fungi that are responsible for the yeast infection. It can be applied to the affected area three times a day.
Cleansing and Moisturizing Skin
Coconut oil helps to clear away dead skin cells and can also be combined with coconut crystals, sea salt or other natural exfoliating substances to make a very useful facial scrub that leaves the skin feeling soft and clean. No need to spend money on special products when you can use coconut oil. A simple scrub can be made by mixing one cup of coconut crystals with 1/2 cup of organic coconut oil.
Coconut oil puts nutrients back into your skin as opposed to synthetic products that suffocate the skin and provide no nutritional benefits. If you want to use coconut oil as a moisturizer, be sure to start with a very small amount. If you put too much on your skin it will be a mess and your skin will not be able to drink it all in. A little bit goes a long way and this makes it an extremely economical choice for a moisturizer.
Detoxifier
Oil pulling is a highly powerful way to detoxify the body. Dr. Bruce Fife is a coconut oil expert and the author of Oil Pulling Therapy and he says, “Oil pulling is one of the most remarkable methods of detoxification and healing I have ever experienced in my career as a naturopathic physician.” This process removes bacteria, toxins and parasites from the mouth and also loosens sinuses and congestion while encouraging the lymph system to move toxins out of the body.
Oil pulling instructions:
- Oil pulling should be done on an empty stomach first thing in the morning.
- Use one tablespoon of organic virgin coconut oil – you may want to start with 1/2 a tablespoon and work your way up to a tablespoon.
- Swish the oil around in your mouth slowly and be sure that the oil reaches all parts of your mouth – do not swallow.
- Swish for ten minutes minimum.
- Spit out when you are done and rinse with pure water.
- Brush with a natural toothpaste afterwards.
- Oil pulling can be done daily and will reduce plaque, whiten teeth, freshen breath and improve overall health and well-being.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://tv.greenmedinfo.com/the-amazing-benefits-of-coconut-oil-dr-bruce-fife/
http://www.coconutresearchcenter.org/
