Coconut oil in its purest form contains healthy fatty acids that benefit the body from the inside out. From killing internal parasites to fighting skin infections, this wonder oil has been scientifically proven to be very effective.
Fights bacteria and skin infections
Coconut oil contains potent anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties that help cure acne, and kill fungi and bacteria in the skin. It is also a powerful germ killer and helps heal wounds faster.
Protects and nourishes the skin
Topical use of coconut oil works as an effective moisturizer for very dry skin and doubles as a natural sunscreen to block harmful UV rays. It contains natural SPF levels of around 4-5. It may seem lower than what the American Academy of Dermatology recommends, but it still helps protect the skin, along with its antioxidant properties to help keep the skin looking youthful.
Improves oral health
For those who are practicing oil pulling, coconut oil is an excellent choice of oil to use. Its lauric acid ingredient has been proven by recent studies to have bacteria-fighting benefits.
Click here for more info on how to pull oil to improve oral health
Prevents cardiovascular diseases
Not all fats are bad, and in truth, everyone needs the right kind of fats in the body for the cells to function. The fats contained in coconut oil are the healthy fats called medium-chain triglycerides (MCT).
Recent studies have shown that this type of saturated fat is not bad for the heart. In fact, it helps raise HDL levels or the good fats in the body. This makes the body less prone to cardiovascular diseases and helps lower blood pressure.
Improves brain health
A 2004 study published in the Neurobiology of Aging has stated that the MCT fats contained in coconut oil contribute to improving brain function in adults. It is said to be especially helpful to those who are in the early stages of Alzheimer’s diseases and those who suffer from memory disorders.
Helps those with diabetes
The fatty acids in coconut oil help provide energy to the cells which do not function properly due to insulin resistance. When the cell’s energy is restored, it helps the body’s organs function properly.
Helps curb cravings and maintain weight
Regular intake of coconut oil can help curb the usual cravings for sweets and salty food. The heart-friendly fats help improve metabolism and signal the brain to prevent feelings of hunger.
This, in turn, results in weight regulation. But it is also important to note that coconut oil contains calories, so intake should be limited to a few spoonfuls per day.
More studies are showing the various benefits of coconut oil for health. These days, coconut is being treated not merely as a food ingredient; science is already recognizing and verifying its medicinal properties. It would help to have a bottle of pure virgin coconut oil in your pantry or medicine cabinets ready to aid in treating many common ailments.
