Coconut Oil Treatment

Coconut is one of nature's gifts to us that helps us cure a range of problems. Coconut oil is obtained from the copra which is the dried meat or kernel of the coconut. However, virgin coconut oil is produced from fresh coconuts instead of copra. Coconut oil is rich in antioxidants that neutralizes the harmful effects of free radicals. It has strong antifungal and antibacterial properties that helps fight skin infections. Unlike other oils, coconut oil does not clog pores. Hence, it can be used as a moisturizer for the skin without the fear of the skin breaking into white heads or rashes. Other uses of coconut oil involve treating damaged hair and dandruff.

Coconut Oil for Hair

Coconut oil is an excellent remedy for dry and damaged hair. Excessive cosmetic procedures like blow drying, bleaching, coloring, and natural conditions like the dry autumn winds or long exposure to glaring Sun damage the cuticle of hair. The result is dry, weak hair with split ends. Coconut oil acts as an excellent conditioner and can be used to restore the lost moisture of one's hair. It also conditions the scalp as it makes the hair soft.

As a Conditioner
To use it as a conditioner, apply coconut oil to your hair after you have taken a shower. Ensure that the hair is damp but not dripping wet. Take some amount in the hand, rub well and then start applying it evenly to the hair. Start with the wet ends. Then slowly work up the length of the hair applying progressively less amount as you reach the scalp. Apply very little to the roots to avoid the greasy look. It is important to use the correct amount of oil, as using too much of it will again cause the hair to appear oily instead of ensuring a conditioned look.

To Treat Dandruff
The moisturizing effect and antifungal properties help coconut oil to get rid of dandruff, irrespective of whether it is caused due to a dry scalp or any fungal infection. To treat dandruff, apply coconut oil all over your hair and scalp, and leave it for 8 to 10 hours. Hair can be oiled and left overnight for the coconut oil to penetrate within the inner layers of the hair. To remove any trace of oil, shampoo your hair the next morning.

Coconut Hot Oil Treatment
An effective way to nourish hair using coconut oil is to use the coconut hot oil treatment. For this, first oil your hair properly. Then wrap your hair in a towel that has been dipped in hot water or heated using a dryer. Keep the towel on till it becomes cold. Be careful that the towel is not so hot that it hurts the scalp. Continue this for 20 to 30 minutes. Reheat the towel as many times as required.

Coconut Oil for Skin

The antiseptic fatty acids in coconut oil help it to fight fungal and bacterial infections in the skin. Our skin has a chemical barrier that is promoted by sweat and sebum. This barrier is lost once we have had a bath using soap. Coconut oil strengthens this chemical barrier and hence is useful in fighting skin infections.

For Dry Skin
To cure dry skin, rub coconut oil all over the body. Stand under a steamy shower and wash and rinse off in warm water. A mild soap could be used sparingly.

Coconut Oil to Treat Acne
Virgin coconut oil has been found to be very useful in treating acne. Spot application of virgin coconut oil has been reported by many to prevent the re-occurrence of acne.

Other Skin Problems
Using virgin oil topically along with following the recommended diet has been found to be useful in treating rosacea. The nutritive and antifungal properties of coconut oil helps in curing diaper rashes and warts.

The skin of every individual does not react the same way to different substances, even if they are natural products. Some people may suffer from whiteheads during the initial few days of applying coconut oil. This is because this oil extracts toxins out of the body. Such problems should subside in a couple of days. If it doesn't, then probably one is allergic to coconut oil.

Besides its uses, coconut oil is inexpensive. As it serves as a natural remedy for a number of problems, it is free from side effects. So get the maximum out of the myriad health benefits of coconut oil.