Even though it’s no newbie in the food world, coconut oil seems to be gaining popularity every day. There’s one thing that makes coconut oil stand out—versatility! Coconut oil has so many uses that it’s no surprise you see it everywhere. Whether you’re using it for cooking or cleaning as a beauty product or a medicinal aid, coconut oil has 1001 uses! Here are just five of my favorite ways to use this multi-purposed staple ingredient.
1. Butter substitute
Coconut oil has a higher smoking point than butter or ghee which makes it better to cook with at high heat temperatures. Because of its saturated fat content, it’s most stable at high heat and the healthier option. It’s also great added to many raw and vegan desserts. Just replace the oil or butter with coconut oil. Or spread it on a warmed slice of sprouted grain toast or manna bread for a healthy treat.
2. Moisturizer
If you want to glow, you have to get fat. The healthy kind of fat found in foods like coconut oil, that is! Due to its fatty-acid profile, coconut oil is also great for topical use as a moisturizer. It can smooth and clear skin and may help reduce the signs of stretch marks. As a daily moisturizer, rub the oil onto your face and body for a healthy glow.
3. Makeup remover
Coconut oil makes a great eye makeup remover! The fat content helps to loosen away mascara and eye makeup from your eyelashes. Simply rub coconut oil on your eyelids and lashes and gently wipe away with a cotton swab. This is a much healthier option than chemical eye makeup removers, plus it moisturizes and tones the eye area, keeping you youthful looking!
4. For oil pulling
Many people swear by oil pulling as a way to ‘pull’ harmful bacteria harbored in our mouth. Bad bacteria can cause plaque buildup, bad breath, inflammation of the gums and discolored teeth. Swishing your mouth with oil once per day can actually help get rid of this bacteria. By swishing with oil, the bacteria actually gets lodged and dissolved in the fat. Spend 10 to 20 minutes swishing a teaspoon of virgin coconut oil in your mouth first thing in the morning.
5. Natural lip balm
Coconut oil is key to soft, supple lips! Because it doesn’t absorb quite as readily as other oils, it will sit on the surface of your lips longer providing moisture and high gloss shine. I keep a small lip-balm-sized container in my purse for instant, smoochable, delicious lips!
For soft, plump, pouty lips, try this natural lip balm:
- 2 Tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 drop cinnamon essential oil
Melt coconut oil and stir in olive oil and cinnamon oil. Pour into a small container and refrigerate to thicken up a bit. Apply to lips for an über-moisturizing treatment.
Find More From Peggy K
Vegan and Raw Food Recipes here >>
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