This is the first post in my series covering just a handful of uses and benefits of coconut oil.
Lately, coconut oil has become increasingly popular, not
just in the natural community, but nearly everywhere due to its thousands of
uses. Just when you think you’ve discovered them all, there’s another one
waiting for you right around the corner! So what’s so great about it anyway?
I’m glad you asked.
Coconut oil is derived from coconuts imagine that and has been used
worldwide for cooking, its medicinal properties, and in beauty products for
years. The first time I found this oil, I was surprised this oil is actually a solid at room
temperature. It has a sort of butter-like consistency at room temperature and
has a melting point of 76F. When I cook with it, stir-fry for instance, I just
scrape a little off the top and spread it around the pan to melt it, like I
would butter. When I want it to be liquid to start with, like when moisturizing
my face, I use a tip my friend shared with me and warm it by holding the jar
under hot water.
I enjoy cooking—actually I don’t enjoy cooking, but I’ve
been known to stir-fry veggies every once in a while!—with coconut oil because
it is heat stable, not reaching its smoking point until 350F. The smoke point
of oils is important to pay attention to because once they begin to smoke, they
release toxins and free radicals. While I was researching more about this oil,
I came across some studies where eating coconut oil was even associated with
lowering HDL and LDL levels. This stuff is chocked full of awesome natural
healing properties we will dive into soon!
Speaking of cholesterol, there’s actually been a little
controversy since coconut oil is high (91%) in saturated fat. The concern is
that in general, saturated fat has been shown to cause a rise in LDL, the bad cholesterol, but it appears that not
all saturated fats are created equal! The saturated fats in organic virgin
coconut oil are medium chain fatty acids, and actually don’t appear to have the
negative effects on cholesterol (and potentially lower overall levels) that
long chain fatty acids can, such as causing plaque build up in arteries.
*Note, the structure is not the same in refined coconut
oil. Make sure you get organic unrefined
virgin coconut oil!
The fatty acids found in coconut oil are loaded with natural
disinfecting, anti-microbial, anti-viral,
anti-nearly-everything-nasty-we-usually-treat-with-medicine-or-clean-with-chemicals.
It is packed with a potent immune-boosting, disease-fighting acid called lauric
acid. More on this crazy amazing natural healing acid to come.
It is also phenomenal for your skin and hair, toting
anti-aging benefits, acne fighting abilities, and intense hair repair just to
name a few!
Safe to say, I think it is fabulous!
In the next post in this series, we’ll dive into the health
and medicinal benefits of coconut oil. You don’t want to miss it!
Disclaimer: The views of The Gray Poppy Blog are based on my passion for natural health and information provided here is researched from multiple sources prior to publishing. The information provided, however, is for informational purposes only and not intended to serve as, nor be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any treatment regimen, supplement, exercise plan, or dietary change.
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