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"A holistic approach to health considers not just the physical body but also the emotional, mental, and social aspects of our lives." - Dr. Andrew Weil
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Cuckoo for Coconuts
Have a problem? It’s probably nothing a bit of coconut oil can’t fix!
People have been using coconut oil in ancient and traditional medicinal practices for a long time.
It is well known for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, and it is also believed to have a long list of other potential health benefits. All over the world, people use coconut oil for several reasons. Its therapeutic properties make this unassuming substance the perfect addition to your daily routine!
The fascinating miracle substance falls under the category of saturated fats. When stored at room temperature, it remains solid. This is due in part to the high concentration of fatty acids found in coconut oil. Specifically, lauric acid, which is also what gives the oil its antibacterial properties.
The research done specifically on the MCTs found in coconut oil showed the potential it has to provide an alternative energy source for the brain. Some literature suggests that it may play a role in helping to manage neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.
Much of the research that has been done on coconut oil is regarding its special formulation of MCTs. It is important to understand that not all coconut oil is alike. Lauric acid is found in higher amounts in commercial coconut oil products and absorbed at a slow rate, similar to other long-chain fatty acids.
However, there are still several other ways that you and I can implement coconut oil into our routines, while reaping its many benefits!
Before we dive into the way that you can use coconut oil in your daily regimen, I want to go over a few more details that are worth considering before you purchase your oil. I will link the oil that I use below.
Look at the Label
Commercial coconut oil products will have different terms on the label. It's best to understand these terms when making your purchase because it gives insight into the production process of the oil. Yes, this matters. "Virgin" and "Extra Virgin" carry no weight with coconut oil. Most manufacturers will use these words interchangeably.
There are two primary forms of the coconut flesh that get utilized in the pressing process. There is a dry method and a wet method.
When the dry method is used, the process takes the flesh of coconuts and drys them out with small amounts of heat. The drying process happens fairly quickly, creating a substance called 'copra'. The copra is then pressed through a machine in order to extract the oil.
The wet method takes fresh coconut flesh and presses it, which produces a combination of coconut milk and oil. The process is more tedious, and usually results in an oil with a much lower smoke point.
When reading the label, you'll see terms like "expeller pressed, cold pressed, refined, unrefined, hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated ".
Expeller Pressed: This means that the process of pressing the coconut meat utilized heat or steam. This term indicates that there are no additives or chemical solvents used in the extraction process.
Cold Pressed: This term is used to emphasize that there is no external heat used in the extraction process. This preserves the integrity of the oil's flavor, aroma, and nutritional content. Cold pressed coconut oils can be considered a higher quality oil because they retain more of the nutritional value unlike other methods that require heat during extraction processes.
Unrefined: The unrefined label usually means that the process used fresh coconut flesh with no chemicals or high amounts of heat during the extraction process. It has a lower smoke point than refined coconut oil, at about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. It's better suited for lower heat cooking methods like baking or low heat sautéing, not for deep frying. It also retains more of its natural nutrients and antioxidants.
Refined: The refined label usually indicates the utilization of copra, or dried coconut flesh which is machine pressed to extract the coconut oil. The oil is then taken through a process wherein it is 'bleached' to remove impurities and bacteria. The use of harsh chemicals and solvents is definitely likely during this process. Refined oils have a higher smoke point of about 400 degrees Fahrenheit making it more ideal for deep frying cooking methods. I don't recommend this, but to each his own, right? Refining processes will deplete nutritional content and make it a more neutral oil by removal of the scent and flavor.
Hydrogenated or Partially Hydrogenated: Please, just avoid it. It's a way of over processing the oils for an extended shelf life. This process will result in the production of trans fats in the oil, which should be avoided for potential health risk.
These are a few of the things to look for when shopping for coconut oil products! Let's jump in to how you can make this wonderful oil a staple in your routine!
Cooking With Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a wonderful cooking oil. It can add some delicious flavor profiles to some of your favorite home cooked meals! As I mentioned above, not all coconut oil is alike, so chose your oils with your health in mind! Here are some of the benefits cooking with coconut oil may have!
Support weight management.
Boosts metabolism and energy.
Internal benefits and healthy glowing skin
Adds unique and delicious flavor profiles to your recipes
Oil Pulling for Oral Hygiene
The former dental hygienist in me geeks out over this one! Gum disease is an epidemic in our society. This can be because of the excessive consumption of sugary foods and ultra processed diets. It is also indicative of improper hygiene practices such as brushing regularly and flossing. Brain imaging scans and recent research has also linked gum disease and brain risks. Gum disease has been shown to have impact on dementia and other brain diseases such as Alzheimers. Coconuts can help!!!!
Natural teeth whitening
Reduced bad breath
Improved oral hygiene
Soothed gum irritation (Great for mouth breathers)
Luxurious Hair Mask with Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a very sought after ingredient when it comes to cosmetic benefits. It works effectively as a luxurious moisturizer for the skin and the hair. With that said, I do not recommend lathering this on your face unless you understand your skin type. Coconut oil for the skin is a little more complex because it is a heavier oil. With that said, for some people, it can be comedogenic, which essentially means that it can cause acne breakouts by clogging your pores. Some people may have allergies to coconut oils when applied topically to the skin, which is something to keep in mind! With that said, I am going to share one of my favorite cosmetic uses of coconut oil within an extremely luxurious hair mask.
Grab your spa day girlies!
Method: 1x a week 1/4 cup coconut oil, 2tbsp castor oil + 4 drops of rosemary = heaven on earth. Once you have combined your ingredients for the mask, comb through your hair using a scalp massager.
deep hydration for hair
promotes hair growth
strengthens and repairs
adds natural shine and luster
These are just a few ways that you can begin incorporating coconut oil into your routine! Check out the links throughout this post to find some of the products I use daily for my personal routine! Invest in your health gorgeous!
Attached below will be two links to my preferred coconut oils! Both are amazing!
Click to Purchase Viva Naturals Organic Coconut Oil
Click to Purchase Kirkland Signature Cold Pressed Unrefined (Large Tub)
Resources:
Coconut oil. The Nutrition Source. (2021, July 6). https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/food-features/coconut-oil/
Disclaimer: Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. This post is not intended to be medical advice. It is for informational purposes only. If you are pregnant, nursing a baby, or have a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, hypertension or heart disease, be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist before purchasing or taking any supplement.
