Let me talk to you about one of my favorite natural product: coconut oil! I use it very frequently and love its different benefits.
Coconut oil is a vegetable oil directly extracted from the flesh of the coconut. It is considered very versatile as it can be used in the kitchen and in cosmetics. It has several benefits; indeed it is also the richest source of lauric acid. Lauric acid (also found in breastmilk) has antibacterial, antimicrobial, antivirus, and immune-protective properties. Below you will find some amazing benefits of coconut oil.
By the way, stay tuned for my article on the benefits of coconut oil during/after pregnancies and in babies and children.
Skin
I have been using coconut oil (sometimes mixed with shea butter) as a regular body lotion for years. I was using it on and off but started using it on a daily basis since last year when I became pregnant and, I love the effect of it on my skin. It is an amazing moisturizer and is very nourishing to the skin. It is highly rich in Vitamin E and A and, can be used as an anti-aging agent. It is efficient at stopping wrinkles and skin irritation because of its natural antioxidant properties.
By the way, I also frequently use as an eye make-up remover and as a lip balm to prevent skin dryness.
Hair
Coconut oil has been used for centuries in hair because of its very nourishing properties. This is due to its unique fat composition. Lauric acid has a strong affinity for hair proteins. It can be used as an oil bath or mask before shampooing, for example. I use it as a hair lotion and/or hair mask to avoid signs of dryness in my hair. It is a real treat for dry and frizzy hair like mine. I also frequently rub in on my scalp to help stimulate hair growth and apply it to my hair to keep it healthy and hydrated.
Health
Coconut oil has a protective effect on the arteries and the heart, in particular, thanks to its metabolism process. It contains healthy saturated fatty acids, which speed up the metabolism and provide energy. The body immediately uses fat reserves without storing them. It is actually a key ingredient in the ketogenic diet because of its health benefits. In addition, it helps reduce feelings of hunger.
Coconut oil is a stable vegetable oil that does not easily break at high temperatures like many other types of vegetable oils. It can be cooked at a high temperature without denaturing itself.
I enjoy incorporating it in my salad dressings, smoothies, and desserts and, many baked goods! After I had my baby, I used it a lot to make bulletproof tea (sometimes coffee) in the morning for weight loss purposes and it worked for me. Let me know if you want my recipe!
How about you? Are you familiar with coconut oil? How are you using it and what other benefits would you like to share? Do not hesitate to comments and/or share!
