“Virtually all hyperosmolar lubricants need to be reformulated… Normally the mucosal lining of the vagina is a good barrier to infection all by itself, but when that barrier gets compromised, all bets are off.” – Richard Cone, Bio-physicist, Johns Hopkins
Personal lubrication is a fact of life, like an engine in a car – everything works together better when it is “well oiled.” However, the $219 million dollar personal lubrication industry, dominated by Johnson and Johnson is actually at the forefront of a major public health crisis.
The lubricant market is flooded by petrochemicals that can cause severe damage to sensitive personal parts. One problem with these lubricants is that they have a cellular weight that is about 30 times more than that of human cell skin tissue.
When the solution is applied to the skin it actually squeezes the tissue to death. The warming feeling occurs because skin cells shrivel up and tissue falls off. What results is small tears that disrupt the natural immunity of genital walls – inviting infection.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition that persons who use personal lubricants are 13% more likely to develop than those who don’t use them. Up to 51% of all women have BV and of these, almost 84% don’t even know they have it. Having BV makes one 60% more susceptible to sexually transmitted disease and women are three times more likely to transmit HIV to their partners.
In addition, most personal lubricants on the market contain a wide array of chemical compounds, which not only irritate sensitive skin, but also introduce toxins into your (and your partner’s) system. Some variteties contain parabens, compounds which have been linked to hormonal disruption, and have been found to accumulate in the body.
Choose wisely
Choosing a personal lubricant is as important as choosing the food you eat. Your lubricant can either contribute to the demise of your health and the health of others, or nourish your body. Fortunately, there is an answer for those searching for the perfect lubricant to help things go a bit more smoothly in the bedroom, look no further than organic, extra-virgin coconut oil.
This tropical wonder oil, besides being a great skin moisturizer and rejuvenator, as well as an extremely healthy food, can bring a lot of benefits to your intimate life as well.
Organic, extra-virgin coconut oil is completely natural, extremely mild and free of chemical preservatives. It also has natural antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties, which may help to reduce the risk of contracting an infection. Plus, a small tub goes a long way, as a dollop is all you need.
Using coconut oil as a lubricant can be especially beneficial for women who are approaching or going through menopause. Vaginal dryness is common around this time in a woman’s life, and using coconut oil can help relieve the irritation.
Dr. Jennifer Gunter, an OB-GYN with Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, states, “in my practice, many women who experience vaginal dryness, have chemical sensitivities, or vulvar sensitivities report really liking it [coconut oil].”
Along with bringing some glide to the act of love, coconut oil is perfect for an all-over massage, as it is moisturizing and nourishing to the skin, is very light, and has a mild, pleasant scent. It is not greasy, and will not stain your sheets, unlike many other lubricants.
Dr. Gunter does, however, caution that coconut oil should not be used with latex condoms. Some oil-based lubricants have been found to break down latex. While research is lacking regarding the interplay of latex condoms and coconut oil, it is better to be safe than sorry. Use polyurethane condoms with coconut oil instead.
Also, make sure the coconut oil you purchase is the real thing – many highly processed imposters are on the shelves, and some have nasty preservatives in the mix. Make sure the label states “organic,” and “extra-virgin,” and whenever possible, buy from a reputable company you trust.
So, the next time you are in the market for a safe and effective personal lubricant, choose the one that you can eat!
Have you ever used coconut oil as a personal lubricant? If so, let us know in the comments below!
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
https://www.thealternativedaily.com/trusting-your-skin-to-coconut-oil-like-islanders-have-for-1000s-of-years-2
https://www.thealternativedaily.com/parabens-not-just-in-cosmetics-but-also-in-food
http://www.shape.com/lifestyle/sex-and-love/coconut-oil-new-lube
