Guest Post: Health and Beauty Benefits of Coconut Oil

      Coconut oil has been used for years in India for its numerous health and body care benefits, and to some degree, it has been incorporated in mass-produced products for sale in the Western world. Coconut oil is catching on as a quick-fix for a variety of different reasons all on its own lately.

Coconut oil is made up of lauric acid and a unique form of saturated fat – a form that's actually good for your body. When buying coconut oil, choose virgin coconut oil instead of processed coconut oil. It has more health benefits.

Hair Care

Damaged and Dry Hair

Coconut oil can be used to help treat damaged, dry hair and split ends. To use coconut oil, massage a tablespoon size amount into split ends. Leave the coconut oil on your hair for about 30 minutes before showering and washing it out.

If the coconut oil is difficult to massage into your hair, try putting it in the microwave on a medium setting for 10 to 15 seconds in a microwave-safe bowl to soften it.

Dry Scalp

Coconut oil is very helpful for treating a dry scalp because it contains fat content that can moisturize hair. The process of using coconut oil for your scalp is relatively easy, but you may need to do it for a few days before you notice a major improvement.

To use coconut oil to treat a dry scalp, rub just enough of it on to coat your scalp. There’s no need to coat your hair at the same time unless it’s dry too. Let the coconut oil stay on your hair for about 20 minutes.

Re-apply the same amount of coconut oil after 20 minutes and comb out any tangles in your hair. Cover your head with a shower cap or put a towel down on your pillow to keep the oil from leaving stains.

In the morning, simply wash your hair like you normally would. Repeat the treatment for a few days if necessary.

If you find that using coconut oil helps keep your scalp from drying out, try using the coconut oil treatment about once per week. Using coconut oil about once per week can help keep your scalp from drying out altogether in many cases.

Skin Care

Severely Dry Skin

Coconut oil is moisturizing, and it can help people with very dry skin get the smooth, touchable feel that they want. Coconut oil can also be beneficial when used topically by people with eczema or psoriasis. People with normal or oily skin should avoid it – it can make the skin a bit oily if you don't really need it. 

To apply coconut oil to dry skin, apply a small amount to affected areas in the morning and evening after you shower. Applying coconut oil after you shower is best because it can help seal in moisture. Make sure you allow the coconut oil to absorb into your skin before dressing or going to bed.

Coconut oil can also be used throughout the day as needed.

Exfoliating Scrub

Many people spend a small fortune on premade skin care products like exfoliating scrubs. If you have dry skin, you can make your own effective scrub and save money in the process. 

Combine equal parts coconut oil and baking soda in a small container and bowl and thoroughly mix them together. To use the scrub, gently massage it onto your face over the skin before washing with lukewarm water.

Other Health Benefits

Weight Loss

Using coconut oil instead of other fats to cook food may be able to help you lose weight. While coconut oil does contain fat, its triglycerides don't stay in the bloodstream, and are immediately processed for energy by the liver. While olive oil is pretty healthy, coconut oil can aid in weight loss in ways that olive oil can't. 

Improved Digestion

Coconut oil may also aid in digestion and help you avoid problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Coconut oil can help improve digestion because it is anti-microbial meaning that it can actually help kill bacteria, parasites and fungi that can cause stomach problems and IBS. 

About Author: Marcela De Vivo is a health & beauty writer based in Los Angeles California. She currently writes many articles for Skintrium dealing with skin care and safe solutions for skin lightening.