7 Ingenious Ways To Use Coconut Oil
1. Sauteing & Deep Frying Dishes
There was a time when coconut oil was mostly used in the southern states of India but today that’s just not the case anymore. Due to its many benefits, people are adopting it for edible purposes across the nation. Coconut oil has a good flavour and pleasant aroma hence it can be used for a wide variety of cooking. It is especially good for sauteing and cooking at high temperatures of up to 450 degrees F.
2. Natural Nourishment For Skin
Coconut oil is a good option to keep your skin moisturized. It is a good emollient on the skin and is also rich in lauric acid. Studies (source) say that it has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help fight harmful bacteria. When used as a moisturizer, it may also help repair the skin’s barrier, which is your body’s first line of defense against infection.
3. Flavour Enhancer
Coconut oil has a pleasant aroma and taste. It is also used for bakery products as it provides a moisture barrier and imparts high gloss to bakery items in spray oil use. You can also take a pastry brush or a paper towel and spread a thin coating over the surface of the bakeware. Coconut oil can be used for a wide variety of bakery items like cakes, muffins, waffles, biscuits, scones or even cookies.
4. Skin Moisturizer For Kids
If your little ones are dealing with dry-itchy skin or have sensitive skin, coconut oil may be a great natural hydrator as it contains no added fragrance or any ingredients that can irritate the skin. The compounds in coconut oil are safe and effective for restoring moisture to the skin and help reduce water loss through the skin. It is always good to consult your child’s doctor before introducing any new products to his or her skin.
5. Boost Oral Hygiene
An ancient technique called oil pulling, also known as “Kavala” or “Gundusha,” involves swishing oil inside your mouth. Coconut oil is often used for it. Most often it is associated with Ayurveda, the traditional medicine system from India. Studies suggest that it helps to remove plaque and promotes oral hygiene, hence coconut oil is gaining popularity to improve dental health.
6. As a Massage Oil
Coconut oil is one of the oldest and most widely used massage oils. It spreads easily on the skin and is considered a superior baby massage oil. It is known to have antifungal properties that may help prevent fungal infections. Plus, it also has the potential to take care of dry and cracked skin of heels. Coconut oil spreads easily on the skin when used as a massage oil and regular massaging gives softness and suppleness to the skin.
7. Manage & Detangle Hair
When coconut oil is applied before or after washing hair, it may help reduce the risk of damage from combing your hair, states A research published in January–March 2015 issue of the International Journal of Trichology (source). It is noted that the lauric acid in coconut oil can easily penetrate hair proteins and aid in protecting your locks. All you need to do is Rub the coconut oil into the palms of your hands and work your way along the hair shaft from the roots to the ends and massage it onto the scalp, leave it for a few hours or overnight before you wash. You can also apply a small quantity of coconut oil post hair wash to give them a shiny, non-greasy look. Follow it by combing through with a wide-tooth comb.