Coconut oil is a true multi-tasker. This laudable oil offers seemingly unlimited benefits—and unlimited ways it can be used. Try these exciting new tips to supercharge your nutritional, health, and beauty habits with that much-loved coconut oil jar in your pantry.
Coconut oil is so much more than the latest culinary craze. We could write an ode to this tropical treasure, waxing poetic about its health properties and beauty benefits. How shall we use thee, coconut oil? Let us count the ways.
Improving heart health
Opt for virgin, unrefined coconut oil, which contains more nutrients than refined, bleached, or deodorized varieties.
Combatting stretch marks
Rub coconut oil on affected areas two to three times daily.
Guarding against diaper rash
Check out the David Suzuki Foundation’s website (davidsuzuki.org) for simple DIY baby care recipes, including a diaper rash cream made with coconut oil.
Fighting dry cuticles
Alternatively, you can soften toes and soles by slathering feet in coconut oil and covering with thick socks or wrapping in a towel for 30 minutes.
Conditioning damaged hair
- Massage 3 to 5 Tbsp (45 to 75 mL) melted coconut oil into hair from roots to tips.
- Secure hair in a loose bun and cover with a shower cap or old T-shirt.
- Leave on for two hours or overnight to let the oil sink in.
- Wash hair as normal to remove oil.
Don’t have time for a full conditioning treatment? Smooth frizz and flyaways by applying a tiny amount of coconut oil to dry hair.
Soothing chapped lips
Keep some coconut oil in a small container for a DIY, on-the-go lip balm.
Battling acne breakouts
Test coconut oil on a small patch of your face for a few days. If all goes well, apply a dime-sized amount all over face and wait for 10 minutes before putting on makeup.
Calming sun-burned skin
While useful for emergency after-sun care, coconut oil shouldn’t be used in place of your usual sunscreen, as its SPF is insufficient to keep skin from burning.
Taking a truly clean bath
Open pores by soaking in a warm tub for 10 minutes, then add coconut oil to bath water. This will help your skin retain moisture.
Sauteeing for amazing flavor
Store coconut oil at room temperature. It will melt if the temperature climbs above 76 F (24 C), but this shouldn’t affect the oil’s quality.
Giving your coffee a boost
Whirl 1 cup (250 mL) brewed coffee and 1 tsp (5 mL) coconut oil in your blender for a simplified version of bulletproof coffee.
Making top-notch popcorn
Drizzle a little more coconut oil over popped popcorn and finish with a sprinkle of sea salt.
Replacing butter on toast
Top it off with your favourite toast flavours, such as sliced avocado or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Baking delicious goodies
For best results, melt coconut oil before using it in place of butter or other oils.
Oil Pulling for a healthy mouth
If you’re new to oil pulling, start with just five minutes each morning. Gradually work up to 10 to 20 minutes.