H E A LT H
Coconut Cosmetics
18 health, beauty and wellness benefits of coconut oil By Madison Rutherford
W
hat if there was an enchanting elixir that could reduce wrinkles, whiten teeth, moisturize skin, increase energy and produce long, shiny locks? No, we didn’t find the Fountain of Youth. But coconut oil is pretty darn close. This simple concoction is somewhat of a cure-all, and you can buy a jar of it at the grocery store for under $10. Coconut oil can help improve digestion, lower cholesterol and burn fat. Here are 18 other uses that prove it’s the holy grail of health products.
1. COOKING & BAKING ALTERNATIVE
Coconut oil is ideal for sautéing and frying foods at high heat due to its high burning point, so you won’t have to worry about setting off your smoke detector the next time you make stir fry. Unlike butter and olive oil, coconut oil is made up of healthy saturated fats that remain stable at high temps. It’s also a great resource if you don’t have non-stick cookware – add a teaspoon or two to the pan for stick-free cooking and seamless cleanup. Coconut oil is also a great baking substitute; use it instead of butter for nutritious and delicious vegan frostings, pound cakes,
shortbread, brownies and beyond.
2. SPORTS DRINK SUBSTITUTE 5. MAKEUP REMOVER The healthy fats in coconut oil give the body a quick boost of energy. Instead of pounding processed sugar water, consider combining coconut oil, chia seeds and your favorite fruit with water for a nourishing alternative to sports and energy drinks.
3. SKIN MOISTURIZER
Because of its non-greasy and easily absorbing properties, coconut oil works wonders as a moisturizer. At room temp, coconut oil is a solid, but it quickly melts when applied to the skin. For the best moisturizing effect, wash your face, pat dry, warm a peasized amount of coconut oil in your hands and rub in a circular motion on your face. Let sit for five minutes and wipe off excess. Coconut oil is also a great way to lock in moisture after a shower. After a rinse, apply coconut oil liberally all over your body. It will help hydrate dry skin and soothe skin post-shave.
4. WRINKLE REDUCER
Coconut oil contains proteins and vitamins with proven anti-aging benefits. To combat crow’s feet and dark circles, dab coconut oil around your eyes before bed to wake up with
Coconut oil can help improve digestion, lower cholesterol and burn fat. (Photo by Phonlawat Chaicheevinlikit)
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refreshed and radiant skin. A small scoop of coconut oil will remove even the most stubborn waterproof mascara without stinging or irritating the eyes. Rub oil gently on the eyelids, face or lips and wipe off with a warm washcloth to get rid of makeup while simultaneously hydrating and cleansing the skin.
6. BATH TIME BOOSTER
Light a candle, throw on your favorite relaxing tunes and add 1/4 cup coconut oil and 1/4 cup Epsom salts to a warm bath for an at-home spa treatment that will soothe your mind and your skin.
7. EYELASH SERUM
Stop spending hundreds of dollars on designer mascara and fancy growth serum to get the long lashes of your dreams. Instead, mix a tablespoon of coconut oil with a drop of lemon or lavender oil and apply to your lash line with a Q-tip.
8. TOOTHPASTE & MOUTHWASH
Coconut oil can eradicate bad breath while also polishing those pearly whites, so who needs toothpaste? Mix an equal amount of coconut oil and baking soda for a DIY whitening toothpaste, and add a few drops of peppermint oil to leave your mouth feeling extra fresh. Swishing coconut oil around in your mouth (aka an ancient Ayurvedic detox method called “oil pulling”) is thought to extract toxins from both the mouth and the body. How does it work? The fatty acid composition in coconut oil both attracts and kills bacteria, so oil pulling for 15 to 20 minutes a day allows toxins to be pulled from the body. The practice of oil pulling not only results in an increase in overall oral health, but can also reduce migraines, sinus infections and joint pain, as well as boost the immune system and mental alertness.