Uses of Coconut Oil

Coconut has been part of human history for the past 4000 years. Most people, in South and Central America, Africa, the Indian subcontinent and most of Asia, have been using various parts of coconut tree for food, shelter, fuel, water and for therapeutic purposes. Coconut oil is one of the first plant oils used by man and ayurvedic texts, dating back to 1500 BC, has mention of its medicinal properties. Let us take a look at the uses of coconut oil.

Health Benefits
Coconut oil has anti fungal, anti viral and anti bacterial properties, which make it effective against some skin diseases. It can kill some viruses with lipid coating like those causing flu, mononucleosis, herpes, etc. Coconut oil is also beneficial in treating bacterial infections like urinary tract infections, pneumonia, sore throats, dental cavities and gonorrhea. Its anti fungal property is useful against fungus and yeast infections that cause ringworm, athletes foot, jock itch, candida, thrush, etc.

It is said that coconut oil releases energy, soon after its consumption. It can also help in smooth functioning of thyroid gland, and can increase the rate of metabolism. Coconut oil aids in digestion, and also assist the body in absorbing fat soluble vitamins, minerals and amino acids. It is believed that consumption of coconuts can reduce the risk of diabetes, by enhancing the secretion of insulin.

Coconut oil can prevent the symptoms of premature aging to some extent. It also boosts the immunity system and can help in preventing some cancers. Coconut oil is widely used for hair nourishment and skin care. Topical application of coconut oil on the scalp gives a shiny complexion to the hair, and reduces dandruff too. It acts as a moisturizer for the skin and prevents dryness and flaking. It can also curbs wrinkle formation and can rarely cause side effects. Virgin coconut oil is preferred to the regular one extracted from the dried kernel or copra.

The role of coconut oil in heart diseases is still a much-debated topic. Some studies suggest, that consuming coconut oil can cause heart diseases, while some others vehemently oppose it, citing the beneficial effects of coconut regarding the functions of the heart. As per the latter section, coconut oil helps to prevent clotting of blood platelets, and reduces the risk of stroke, arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis.

Commercial Uses
Apart from the commercial production as cooking oil, coconut oil is mainly used in the manufacture of soaps, massage oils, essences, cosmetics and industrial lubricants. It can also be used as a biodiesel with slight modifications. In Philippines, this oil is used as a fuel for transportation purposes and researches are still underway to find out a method to generate electricity from it. Recently, a mixture of coconut oil and babassu oil was used to partially power one engine of Boeing 747. Coconut oil has already been tested as an engine lubricant too.

Even though coconut oil is said to have no side effects on topical application and consumption, some people may be allergic to this oil. If you want to use coconut oil, consult your an expert doctor beforehand.