Coconut Oil: Health Benefits and Buying Guide

raw coconut oil on wooden spoon and list of coconut oil health benefits

Of all the healthy oils, coconut oil’s health benefits are probably what propelled it to be one of the most popular.

Ancient Polynesian cultures have been using coconut oil for hundreds of years for cooking and traditional healing.

You can use the oil for moisturizing and softening your skin and hair, lip balm, massage oil, cuticle care, soaps, digestive issues, energy booster and much more.

Research has shown that coconut oils have anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Here you’ll learn how to use coconut oil to improve your skin and hair, boost your metabolism and even improve your health.

Using Coconut Oil for Weight Loss and Cooking

There’s now compelling evidence that you might be able to boost your metabolism and shed unwanted pounds due to the unique fatty acids found in coconut oils:

How to Lose Weight – Learn how the fatty acids found in coconut oil may help increase the metabolism and encourage weight loss.
Healthy Shake Recipes – One of the best ways to add this oil to your diet is by making protein shakes and fruit smoothies. Here are some easy-to-follow recipes using this healthy plant oil.

Using Coconut Oil for Natural Health

Studies show coconut oil contains Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT’s) and anti-microbial compounds called lauric and caprylic acid.

While coconut oil isn’t a drug, there’s some encouraging research and anecdotal reports that these active ingredients may offer many health benefits.

A Natural Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease? – It’s reported that some Alzheimer’s patients’ brains have difficulty metabolizing glucose from proper brain function. Dr. Mary Newport was able to boost her husband’s memory with daily doses of coconut oils. We share this doctor’s experience using coconut oils for Alzheimer’s disease.
Candida Yeast Infections – Studies show that fatty acids in coconut oils can kill specific strains of oral yeast infections, including Candida. Here’s a closer look at how these natural compounds may help fight yeast and fungal infections.
Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue – If you suffer from Fibromyalgia or joint pain you may be interested to learn how some people improved their symptoms with these oils.
Many people reported a daily dose of 3 – 4 tablespoons of coconut oil ‘fired up’ their energy levels and some people even lost weight. Find out if this whole food supplement may relieve symptoms of Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue.
Thyroid Health – There’s conflicting evidence that you can use this oil for certain thyroid conditions. Some people have claimed it boosted their metabolisms leading to more energy and weight loss. On the other hand, some researchers believe coconut oil has no effect at all on thyroid function.

Using Coconut Oil for Skin and Body Care

Looking for natural and healthy skin care? This oil can naturally soften and moisturize skin, as well as improve the look and feel of dry hair. Find out how to bring out your natural beauty with this healthy oil:

Acne – Lauric acid found in coconut oils kill acne-causing bacteria. Find out how you can use it for a softer and more clearer complexion.
Dermatitis – A study published by the American Dermatitis Society showed eczema patients experienced less redness, peeling and edema when they applied a teaspoon of coconut oil to their skin over a 4 week period. Researchers also found a marked reduction in bacteria on the skin leading to less skin infections.
Dry Itchy Skin – Stop damaging your skin with man-made cosmetics and skin care products. If you want softer, smoother-looking skin you should try using this tropical oil – it’s easily absorbed and can help fortify and nourish your skin with healthy fatty acids.
Effects on Dry Hair – Did you know that this oil can actually penetrate the hair shaft with protein leading to stronger and healthier-looking hair? You can also use leave-in hair conditioners containing healthy plant oils for silky and soft strands.

Discover the Anti-Viral Properties of Coconut Oils

Health Benefits of Lauric Acid from Coconut Oils – This fatty acid has been shown to have anti-microbial properties and is effective against certain bacteria, fungi and lipid-coated virus such as herpes, HIV and Cytomegalovirus (CMV).
Can Coconut Oils Cure Herpes Outbreaks? – While this subject is controversial, there’s a product derived from ingredients found in coconuts that’s proven to reduce herpes breakouts and lessen the painful symptoms of herpes sores.

Buyer’s Guides, Product Reviews and Forum

Pros and Cons of Capsules – Better than Liquid? – You can get these oils in capsules and liquid. Which is the best type to get? Find out which is the better choice for your health needs.
Consumer’s Guide to the Best Coconut Oils – Coconut oils are available in a variety of blends, such as organic and refined. Here’s helpful tips to help you choose the best one.
Coconut Oils Forum – Please drop by our Forum and learn how other people have used coconut oil. We welcome your own comments and questions here.

Specific Brand Name Product Reviews:

Here are detailed reviews of some popular coconut oil brands. We looked at how the oils were made, ingredient analysis and much more: