15 Ways to Use Coconut Oil

Before being deemed a culinary darling, coconut oil was said to cause high cholesterol and heart disease because of its saturated fat content. Researchers are now seeing coconut oil in a new light, however, as it may actually promote heart health by boosting our levels of “good” HDL cholesterol.

A natural, cost-effective treatment for stretch marks? Yes, please. Some massage therapists and pregnant women report that massaging coconut oil into the skin can help reduce and prevent stretch marks.

Coconut oil can also soothe babies’ diaper rashes. It possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties to help fight infections while calming skin irritation.

Massage coconut oil into your nail beds to combat dry, peeling cuticles. This gentle treatment can leave you with baby-soft hands.

A chemical-free conditioner for damaged hair might sound like a dream, but coconut oil is the real deal. Here’s how it’s done.

• 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 forget to let your lips in on the softening action. Coconut oil can moisturize chapped lips and add a touch of sheen—plus, it tastes great.

Breaking out? Coconut oil is rich in anti-inflammatory fatty acids, so applying it to acne-prone areas may help ease redness and breakouts. If you have very sensitive skin, however, keep in mind that coconut oil might clog pores.

Let’s face it—the occasional sunburn can happen despite our best efforts. Aloe vera gel is a well-known remedy for peeling and inflammation, but coconut oil can also do the trick.

Conventional bath products may be overflowing with questionable chemicals, including preservatives, fragrances, and dyes. When we soak in warm water, our skin becomes even more susceptible to absorbing those chemicals. For a bath that’s really clean, add natural moisturizers such as coconut oil to water.

With a smoke point of 350 F (175 C), unrefined coconut oil is ideal for cooking at medium heat. Use it to add subtle tropical flavour to stir-fries, sautés, and curries.

Many foodies swear by bulletproof coffee: an energizing blend of coffee, butter, and coconut oil. It might seem strange, but consuming medium-chain fatty acids (which are plentiful in coconut oil) can actually kick-start our metabolism.

Coconut oil and popcorn is a match made in snacking heaven. For easy homemade popcorn, use 2 Tbsp (30 mL) coconut oil to pop 1/3 cup (80 mL) organic kernels in a covered pot on your stovetop.

Forgo bread and butter in favour of a more exciting combination: bread and coconut oil. Solid coconut oil melts when spread over toast, resulting in a warm and tropical treat.

Coconut oil is a delicious vegan alternative to butter and vegetable oils in baked goods. Use a one-to-one ratio to substitute with coconut oil in cookies, brownies, and cake.

For best results, melt coconut oil before using it in place of butter or other oils.

Coconut oil is perfect for oil pulling, an Ayurvedic technique that may help banish bad breath and prevent plaque buildup. It’s easy to try—simply swish 1 Tbsp (15 mL) coconut oil around your mouth as you would mouthwash. Although sesame and sunflower oil can also be used for oil pulling, coconut oil comes out on top because it contains a powerful antibacterial and antifungal agent called lauric acid.