Coconut Oil for the Body

Coconuts have a long list of health benefits for our bodies.

Coconuts are like nature's all-purpose health booster. Whether it is used for its milk or for its oil, the coconut can bring great benefits to bodies everywhere.

Composition

Coconuts are beneficial to health because they are made up of lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid, which contain properties that are antibacterial, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal and soothing. According to Dr. Mary Enig, nutritionist and biochemist, the body converts lauric acid into monolaurin, a substance that aids in dealing with viral and bacterial diseases such as herpes, influenza, measles and HIV, and helps to protect the body against harmful bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes and Heliobacter pylori.

Stress Relief and Heart Disease Prevention

Gentle massaging of the head and body with coconut oil creates a soothing effect, which relieves tension and stress. The oil also prevents high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, because of its lauric acid, which helps to help maintain a healthy heart.

Weight Loss

Coconut oil contains certain fatty acids that aid in reducing excess body fat. It helps the functioning of thyroid and enzyme systems to boost the metabolism, which helps a person burn more calories and keep their weight down.

Immunity and Healing

Coconut oil contains various lipids and acids important in strengthening the immune system and fighting off bacteria harmful to our bodies. It's also effective in the healing process, as it can protect the infected areas from external harmful elements. The oil can be used to efficiently heal bruises as it repairs damaged tissues.

Skin and Hair Care

Coconut oil promotes healthy hair growth and is an effective skin moisturizer. It prevents dryness and flaking skin, and it can be massaged directly onto the skin and into the hair for optimum nutritional benefits. According to organicfacts.net, it is a "safe solution for preventing dryness and flaking of skin, and also delays wrinkles, and sagging of skin, which normally become prominent with age, because of its antioxidant properties."

References

• Coconut Museum: The Many Uses of the Coconut
• Organic Facts: Health Benefits of Coconut Oil
• CoconutOil.com: Mary Enig Ph.D. on the Effects of Coconut Oil on Serum Cholesterol Levels and HDLs
• CoconutOil.com: Coconut: In Support of Good Health in the 21st Century

Resources

• Coconut Oil: Research By Dr. Mary Enig