What Does Organic Coconut Oil Do?

Organic Coconut Oil Is Pure

Coconut oil benefits your body, both inside and out. Coconut oil once had a bad reputation due to its high concentration of saturated fats. But the saturated fats in unrefined, organic coconut oil are actually beneficial. (Hydrogenated coconut oil, which acts as a preservative, is the one to avoid because it contains trans fatty acids.)

Organic coconut oil is made from coconuts that haven't been grown with synthetic, chemical-laden herbicides and pesticides. This is why the organic version is considered to be the purest form of coconut oil available, and also the best for the environment. Always look for unrefined, virgin coconut oil.

Organic Coconut Oil Is Healthy

Virgin coconut oil is made up of over 92 percent saturated fat and consists of less than 1 percent of Omega-6 fatty acids. The saturated fat of coconut oil is not the bad type found in highly processed and fried foods. Coconut oil contains large amounts of lauric acid, a rare medium-chain fatty acid that is found in human milk and is highly beneficial. Medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) support healthy metabolism and nutrient absorption and are thought to be antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral. MCFAs may protect against heart disease and stroke.

Virgin coconut oil is considered a healthy oil to use for frying and may be healthier than olive oil when used for cooking at high temperatures.

Organic Coconut Oil Helps With Skin Conditions

Coconut oil benefits aren't relegated only to nutrition---the oil is also good for your skin. Coconut oil acts a moisturizer and is similar to mineral oil, except without any possible adverse side effects. Organic coconut oil may help treat skin problems, such as eczema, dermatitis, infections, athlete's foot, rashes and dry, flaky skin. Simply rub coconut oil on your skin as a moisturizer. Coconut oil is also an effective, natural facial cleanser. It's frequently listed as an ingredient in premium moisturizers and creams.

Coconut Oil Promotes Stress Relief

Coconut oil is useful in aromatherapy. Whenever you feel stressed, apply a dab of the oil to your forehead and massage it in a circular motion. Coconut oil is also a carrier oil, to be used in conjunction with other oils.

Coconut Oil Is a Great Hair Conditioner

Just as virgin coconut oil is beneficial for your skin, it's also great to use on your hair. Massage a bit of oil into your hair to moisturize a dry scalp and get rid of dandruff. The oil contains proteins to nourish damaged hair.