10 Surprising Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a very popular oil these days to cook with and use for various reasons.  It also has many great benefits.  In fact, I have seen lists of 101 uses!  Today I’m sharing 10 surprising health benefits of coconut oil that you may have never thought of!

To get the most benefit from coconut oil, be sure to buy coconut oil that is organic, extra virgin oil.

Boosts Immunity

According to Dr. Mary Enig of the Weston A. Price Foundation, 50% of coconut oil’s fatty acid content is made of lauric acid.  This lauric acid converts to monolaurin.  The result of this process is what gives coconut oil its antiviral properties and improves the body’s immunity.

Promotes Weight Loss

Many foods contain long-chain fatty acids, whereas coconut oil consists of mostly medium chain fatty acids.  These fatty acids are metabolized differently than other fats.  Coconut oil’s unique combination of fatty acids boosts the metabolism and helps lose fat.

Reduces Cholesterol

In this 2004 study, coconut oil was shown to reduce LDL, VLDL, and triglycerides, and slightly raise HDL levels; this is exactly what you want to happen.

Natural Hair Moisturizer

From your hair to your skin, coconut oil is an oil that can be absorbed better than other oils.  To use it as a hair moisturizer, apply it to dry hair, spreading it completely throughout.  Cover hair with a plastic bag and leave on for 30 minutes.  Shampoo and rinse hair as usual.

Heal Minor Cuts

Coconut oil increases antioxidant levels and collagen production, making it an ideal healer of wounds.  Apply the oil to a clean, dry cut, and watch the wound heal in a few hours to a few days!

Read the other awesome uses for coconut oil where I’m writing at Hip Homeschool Moms!