Top 34 Beauty & Health Benefits Of Coconut Oil – Its Uses & Side Effects

Coconut oil is generally extracted from the meat or kernel of mature coconuts that is harvested from the coconut palm tree. The oil is known as Virgin Coconut oil when it’s derived from fresh coconut without undergoing any chemical bleaching or processing. Virgin coconut oil contains an important fatty acid called lauric acid, which has anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The oil can be used both internally and externally, making it very versatile. Thus, this oil is one of the superfoods you should include in your diet. In this article, TrueRemedies will show you the top amazing beauty and health benefits of coconut oil and its uses.

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Top 34 Proven Beauty And Health Benefits Of Coconut Oil

I. What Are The Benefits Of Coconut Oil And Its Uses?

Coconut oil comes with the nutritional agents making it an excellent herbal remedy for a lot of health conditions. According to studies, coconut oil can help with skin infections, hair problems, stress, weakened immune system, imbalanced cholesterol levels, digestive problems, cardiovascular diseases, kidney problems, low blood pressure, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and muscular strain^[1] [2]. Apart from that, this oil is also beneficial for enhancing thyroid production, and combating fungi and yeasts causing candidiasis, tapeworms, ringworm, athlete's foot, diaper rash, lice, thrush, and other infections and parasites. Furthermore, it also helps with the absorption of nutrients such as vitamins, amino acids, and minerals in the body, which stimulates energy levels and improves physical performance, endurance.

1. Combat Hemorrhoids

Because it composes of antiviral, antimicrobial, and antibacterial activities, coconut oil can help to treat hemorrhoids symptoms. It contains strong anti-inflammatory effects, which can lower swelling and inflammation. The powerful analgesic properties present in this oil can help to decrease discomfort caused due to the hemorrhoids. Besides, its antibacterial effects allow the condition to heal faster. Mix the melted coconut oil with some witch hazel. Apply the mixture with a cotton ball to external hemorrhoids. Follow this remedy several times daily until your symptoms subside. 

2. Treat Alzheimer’s Disease

A study found that ketones from coconut oil have possible therapeutic impacts on people who have Alzheimer’s disease^[3]. Besides, coconut oil contains unique phenolic compounds and hormones that can inhibit the aggregation of amyloid-beta peptides causing Alzheimer’s disease. 

3. Fight Infections

Lauric acid found in coconut oil can disintegrate the lipid membrane of bacteria and destroy the organism.  According to a study, coconut oil and its potent lauric acid may aid in destroying the bacteria responsible for dental cavities, stomach ulcers, and food poisoning^[4]. 

4. Treat Yeast Infection

Owing to its antifungal activities, coconut oil can destroy fungi responsible for candida. As stated by a study in 2007 conducted by the University College Hospital, Nigeria, the microbial properties found in coconut oil can remove Candida albicans, causing yeast infection in humans^[5]. For treating a yeast infection, you can apply coconut oil directly to the affected area. 

5. Decrease Inflammation And Arthritis

According to a study in India, Virgin coconut oil is high in antioxidants, which decrease inflammation and healing arthritis effectively^[6]. Another recent study showed that coconut oil with medium heat could suppress inflammatory cells. Particularly, it works as both an anti-inflammatory and analgesic.

6.  Reduce Seizures

Coconut oil can help to reduce seizures thanks to its abundance of ketones. A study by the University College London in the UK found the efficacy of the ketogenic diet for treating epilepsy in children^[7]. 

7. Improve Digestion

Coconut oil helps to contribute to an increase in the ability of the body in taking up fat-soluble vitamins such as calcium and magnesium. According to research, medium-chain fatty acids of coconut oil can complete digestion of lipids and promote the breakdown by enhancing the efficiency of enzymes associated with metabolism^[8].

8.  Reduce Stress

Relieving stress is an important component of keeping a healthy mentality. A 2015 study indicated that coconut oil is high in medium-chain fatty acid content, which allows the particular substance to be beneficial to stress reduction^[9]. 

9. Treat UTI

Coconut oil is full of medium-chain fatty acids that can fight bacteria, causing the UTI^[10].  The healthy fatty acids present in coconut products can kill bacteria, such as P. aeruginosa and E. coli and fungi like Candida albicans, which make them effective for UTIs, stomach ulcers, food poisoning, and other types of infections.

10. Aid In Weight Loss

Coconut oil contains saturated fats, which can help people suffering from being overweight.  Consuming medium-chain fatty acids present in coconut oil may result in increased energy expenditures and reduction in visceral fat, body weight, and total body fat^[11].  Instead of creamers and milk, adding coconut oil to your morning coffee is an excellent way of including healthy fats in your diet and reducing your calories.

11. Boost Your Immunity

When taking in coconut oil, its lauric acid will get converted into an antiviral property called monolaurin. Particularly, monolaurin fights against various types of viruses and pathogens. According to a study in 2000, the efficacy of monolaurin and lauric acid can destroy the Staphylococcus aureus that is very dangerous pathogen^[12]. Another study showed that monolaurin in coconut oil could fight against Helicobacter pylori bacteria^[13]. 

12. Eliminate Pink Eye

Coconut oil comes with many chemical components and nutrients that can boost your overall health and improve conditions, including pink eye^[14]. A few people believe coconut oil can strengthen your immunity, and this could aid in fighting your eye infection. Take a soft cloth or cotton ball and dampen it with coconut oil. Then, hold it against closed eyelids on your affected eye. You can also take a spoonful of coconut oil by mouth daily.

13. Cope With Diabetes

Coconut oil is a rich source of medium-chain triglycerides. It has been demonstrated that diets high in medium-chain triglycerides can enhance glucose tolerance and decrease the accumulation of body fat. Along with that, coconut oil can minimize the effects of the disease by regulating blood sugar levels. A 2010 study on type 2 diabetic rats indicated that the lauric acid found in coconut oil is effective at coping with the disease^[15]. A recommended dosage is taking a tablespoon of coconut oil 2 to 3 times every day. 

14. Treat Sleep Disorder

Coconut oil can deal with your sleep disorders since it may improve blood circulation. It is renowned for its medium-chain fatty acids, which are effective at supplying your body with optimum energy. Besides, it regulates the sleep cycle by regulating the hormonal production^[16]. Warm up a little coconut oil and rub it on your neck, back, shoulders, and even the bottom of the feet. Slightly massage them into the skin for about 5-10 minutes in circular motions. Once you’re finished, use warm water to rinse your body off. Follow this treatment once daily before hitting the bed.

15. Treat Ulcers In Stomach

Coconut oil plays a crucial role in treating bacterial infection in the stomach naturally because it consists of antibacterial properties^[17]. It can also be easily digested since it has medium-chain fatty acids. For this remedy, you can consume one tablespoon of coconut oil two times or several cups of coconut milk every day. 

Read more: Top 27 Proven Treatments For Ulcers In Mouth. This article was medically reviewed/fact checked by Sara O'Connell, MD)

16. Remove Canker Sores

Coconut oil is considered as an excellent ingredient for treating canker sores. Research has indicated that coconut oil possesses antimicrobial effects^[18]. It may treat canker sores caused due to bacteria and prevent their spread. Also, it is a natural anti-inflammatory and can help soothe redness and pain. To use, generously apply some coconut oil to the sore. Repeat several times a day until the canker sore is disappeared.

17. Treat Ringworm

Due to its healing properties, coconut oil is extremely effective in fighting ringworm infections^[19].  It further comes with strong antifungal effects that can banish mild or superficial fungal infections. These advantages come from the antimicrobial lipids and lauric acid housed in the medium-chain fatty acids in the oil. Just mix two drops of tea tree oil and one tablespoon of melted coconut oil well. Then, apply it to your affected area. Continue using coconut oil for at least one week.

18. Treat Acid Reflux

Coconut oil can coat the throat and digestive tract, decreasing burning sensations and other irritation caused due to acid reflux. You simply mix extra virgin coconut oil (1 tbsp), apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp), raw, organic honey (1 tsp) and fresh aloe vera juice (1 tsp). After that, stir the mixture into a glass of warm water. Consume whenever you suffer from acid reflux.

19. Remove Stretch Marks

Coconut oil is believed to lower the appearance of stretch marks since it contains moisturizing and antioxidant properties^[20]. Besides, it consists of healthy saturated fats, which may be beneficial for strengthening the skin’s cell walls. Along with that, it combats free radicals and nourishes damaged skin thanks to its antioxidant properties. For this remedy, apply some warm extra virgin coconut oil to the affected part before your bedtime every night.

20. Remove Swollen Lip

Coconut oil can help reduce the swelling on the lips. It also gives a soothing effect to the lips. Coconut oil possesses antimicrobial properties that remove any harmful bacteria, virus, or fungi while taking all the impurities out of the skin pores. Besides, it is a great emollient and helps keep the skin supple and nourished^[21] [22]. Take several drops of coconut oil and massage it on the swollen lips. Wait for several hours and repeat it regularly.

21. Lighten Your Dark Inner Thighs

Coconut oil can lighten hyperpigmentation and revitalize the skin. It also helps you remain soft and younger-looking skin due to its moisturizing and antioxidant properties. Mix several tablespoons of coconut oil and the juice of half a lemon. Then, rub this mixture into your affected area while massaging for ten minutes or longer. Wash the area clean.

22. Prevent Hair Loss

Coconut oil is useful for combating scalp infections responsible for hair loss. It is also packed with iron, and vitamins E & K, all of which help to promote hair regrowth^[23]. For this remedy, take two tablespoons of coconut oil and heat it in a metal container. Leave it to cool down a bit and apply this oil over your scalp and hair. Massage your scalp with your fingers and wrap a towel around the head. Wash your hair after an hour with a mild shampoo. Follow this process twice to thrice weekly.

23. Remove Dandruff

The moisturizing effects of coconut oil can help treat dry skin and dandruff simultaneously. It also acts as a natural antimicrobial product thanks to its lauric acid. Therefore, the oil may help fight Malassezia. Because Malassezia is a fungus, coconut oil can help reduce the amount of these organisms on the scalp along with any related dandruff issues. A study shows that coconut oil may reduce pain and inflammation^[24]. This may be useful in cases of dandruff associated with psoriasis as well as other skin diseases. Apply coconut oil directly to your scalp and leave it on for several minutes before rinsing it off thoroughly.

24. Lighten Dark Underarms

Coconut oil comes with vitamin E, which moisturizes and nourishes the skin^[25]. It also heals damage leaving scars and dark marks. For this treatment, melt one teaspoon of organic coconut oil at first and later stir in ½ teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Then, apply this mixture to your underarms and rinse after fifteen minutes. Follow the remedy two times daily.

25. Promote Hair Growth

Take one jar of coconut oil and warm it in warm water. Then, wash your hair using warm water and apply coconut oil to your damp scalp using fingertips. Massage for three minutes in circles to boost the circulation. Comb the oil through your hair, cover using a shower cap and leave for an hour or overnight. Rinse using warm water and wash with a natural, sulfate free shampoo. Repeat this remedy three times a week.

26. Treat Chapped Lips

The minerals found in coconut oil help to add moisture to lips, thus curing dryness. It also makes the lips look supple and soft. For this remedy, you mix a teaspoon each of sea salt and coconut oil. Apply this solution over your lips and massage it gently for several minutes in circular motions. Use a washcloth to wipe off the mixture and pat dry. Follow the process thrice weekly.

27. Remove Acne Scars

Coconut oil is effective for cooling and soothing the skin. As a result, it reduces redness and inflammation caused due to acne^[26]. Simply, apply some coconut oil to your clean skin using fingertips and massage for five minutes in circular motions. Leave on around ten minutes and remove with a tissue paper. Rinse with warm water and cool water respectively and pat dry. 

28 Treat Diaper Rash

For this remedy, you need to wash the bottom of your baby properly with water and let it dry. Start applying a little coconut oil to your affected area with the aid of fingertips. Leave it to dry before putting on a new diaper. 

29. Athlete’s Foot & Plantar Warts

Coconut oil can combat skin infections such as athlete’s foot and plantar warts. For this treatment, you crush a whole peeled bulb of garlic and mix it with coconut oil (a tbsp). Rub this mixture onto your affected skin area two times daily. 

30. Treat Keratosis Pilaris

All you need to do is mixing liquidated coconut oil (2 tablespoons) and sugar (1 tablespoon). Stir all the ingredients well and massage for a few minutes gently. For extra benefits, you can add one tablespoon each of honey and lemon juice. It’s suggested to use this recipe every day for exfoliation.

31. Deal With Sunburn

You just need to mix a couple of drops of aloe vera gel and lavender oil in organic coconut oil (1/4 cup). Start applying this mixture to the sunburn and gently massage. Leave for several minutes to dry and apply this solution regularly. 

32. Diminish Age Spots

Using coconut oil regularly can help to prevent and eliminate the appearance of age spots. Simply, take a small quantity of coconut oil and massage it into your affected areas a few times every day until the spots disappear.

33. Treat Head Lice

Use one bottle of apple cider vinegar (ACV) to coat your hair thoroughly and let the ACV dry completely. Then, coat your hair thoroughly using a jar of coconut oil and cover using a towel or shower cap for around 3 to 5 hours. Comb your hair to ease the dead lice and eggs. Finally, shampoo and condition the hair. 

34. Combat Dry & Damaged Hair

For this treatment, take some virgin coconut oil and massage into your hair and scalp thirty minutes before taking a shower to treat dry and damaged hair.

II. What Are The Side Effects Of Coconut Oil?

When used in moderation, coconut oil is possibly safe for both external and internal consumption. An overdose of this oil can lead to diarrhea. Like many other oils, this oil is also rich in calories so you should take it into consideration. Hence, when you use this oil for therapeutic purposes, the suggested daily dosage is around 1 to 3 tablespoons

III. Where & How To Buy Coconut Oil

You can easily purchase coconut oil at most grocery and health food stores. Remember to find out cold-pressed Organic Virgin Coconut Oil when buying because this oil retains many of the vital nutrients. 

Now that you know all about the beauty and health benefits of coconut oil. Include this great oil in your regular diet to obtain its benefits. For any comment or question, please leave in the box below.

• Nutrition