The health world is crazy over coconut oil, but there are more uses for coconut oil than just downing it with a spoon. Coconut oil is one of the most overlooked ingredients that can enhance your nutrition plan, skincare regimen, and self-cleansing routine. Coconut oil is delicious in your menu, but also beneficial to your overall health. Here are 8 unconventional ways uses for coconut oil that you probably haven’t heard of or tried yet.
One of the best uses for coconut oil is for your teeth as a natural toothpaste. This will save you money, and help you avoid nasty additives in commercial pastes without shelling out tons of dollars for the all-natural kinds. Coconut has anti-bacterial and whitening properties which make it an excellent base to use for toothpaste. To make your own, simply add ½ cup coconut oil, 3 tbsp. baking soda, 1 tbsp. tea tree oil, and 1/16th tsp. peppermint oil if you want that minty taste. Mix in a food processor and it is not necessary to heat the coconut oil before mixing, but make sure it isn't refrigerated or it will be too hard to mix with the other ingredients. Store in a glass jar and it will keep for 2 months in a cabinet. If you want it in a tube for your purse, consider carrying a small round container in your purse to use on the go.
Yep, that’s right, coconut oil is an excellent way to take off your makeup! Simply rub about one half tbsp. on your face and massage all over. This moisturizes and cleanses your skin in one step. It will not cause your skin to be oily and can, in fact, be a great way to get rid of acne from skin irritation. After massaging over your face, take a hot cloth and wipe clean. It works extremely well at taking off eye makeup, which can be stubborn at time.
While technically any type of oil can be useful for enhancing nutrient uptake because of the healthy fats’ ability to absorb nutrients, coconut oil is extremely beneficial for a couple of reasons. First, coconut oil has abilities to speed up your metabolism and by doing that, certain nutrients from your foods may be absorbed faster than other fats. Also, coconut oil does not change structure with temperatures, making it great to take with hot foods like soup. Just stir it in your meals and enjoy. The fats in coconut oil are not damaged when exposed to high heat like other vegetable oils so they are safe for your body.
While not the most fun topic, yeast infections are a problem for many women. Coconut oil can be applied topically or ingested to rid yeasts of the body. If you’re not used to consuming it internally, start slow, as some detox reactions may occur. Coconut oil is one of the best foods to fight yeasts and parasites in the body.
Yes, coconut oil is great for your dog! Giving your dog about 1 tbsp. per day has been shown to help with dry skin, arthritis and poor digestion. Try melting a little and stirring into their food to start and work up to letting them eat it straight off the spoon if you want.
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic remedy which cleanses the mouth along with toxins from the mouth. This is best done first thing in the morning. Simply put 1 tbsp. coconut oil in your mouth in the morning and swish around for about 20 minutes, like you would mouthwash. DO NOT swallow. If your jaw gets tired, spit it out and start again. After 20 minutes, spit the oil out and toxins from your mouth will go with it, without the need for chemical-filled mouthwashes. Swish some water in your mouth after you spit the oil out to make sure your mouth is washed out well and spit again. Many people note that they feel better overall when doing this, and notice whiter teeth in about a week.
Coconut oil is very hydrating to the skin, which makes it an excellent night cream. Simply rub a little under your eyes and eye lids before you go to bed. It won’t irritate your eyes, but it will make your skin soft and supple. It is also much less expensive than most skincare items.
One of the most fun ways to use coconut oil is to eat it! Most people don’t think of slathering it on toast, pancakes or muffins, but coconut oil makes an excellent alternative to butter. Use it as a topping, not just for cooking. Coconut oil has been proven to keep your blood sugar from spiking after a meal, especially one higher in carbohydrates. Whenever using coconut oil, be sure to use in small amounts and not go overboard, as it is still high in calories as all natural fats are, but you should not fear it. Coconut oil’s fats are quite unique and proven to ward off weight gain, depression and poor digestion when used in moderation.
Do you enjoy eating coconut oil or using it in a home-based beauty routine? Some of the best uses for coconut oil are the most unconventional. Share your tips on how you use this magical oil!