Coconut oil: properties, benefits and applications. Coconut oil - how to use, types and beneficial properties of the product What to mix coconut oil with

Wondering how to use coconut oil for hair and who is it suitable for?

As you know, coconut oil is a multifunctional product. It can be used for the face and body, both in its pure form and as an additive to other cosmetic products. In addition, many people cook with coconut oil and eat it. However, now we will talk about how to use coconut oil for hair and do it correctly.

How to use coconut oil for hair: where to start

First, try to choose a good coconut oil. Coconut oil can be obtained by hot or cold pressing. In the first case, coconut milk is boiled to create oil. In the second case, oil is extracted from coconut directly, and it retains more beneficial properties. Proper coconut oil is solid, white in color and has a pleasant coconut aroma.

How to Apply Coconut Oil to Hair

By the way, naturally occurring surfactants are also obtained from coconut oil. For example, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, which does not clog the pores of the scalp and quite gently cleanses the strands.

Editor's tip: for example, Cocamidopropyl Betaine is found in. This gently cleansing shampoo is free of silicones, parabens and dyes, but does include coconut oil.

In combination with and it will help provide strands with hydration and complete care.

If your hair needs a detox. Credit: Rex by All Things Hair

How to use coconut oil for hair: 3 main rules

Use coconut oil correctly to ensure your hair gets maximum benefits.

1. Determine your hair type

Before using coconut oil for hair, it is important to determine. On dry hair, you can safely apply coconut oil along the entire length. If you have combination strands, it is better to use coconut oil on dry ends or damaged areas. For oily hair, it is not recommended to use pure coconut oil.

Editor's tip: but, for example, you can take and . Their balanced formula, free of silicones and parabens, with coconut oil and coconut water, leaves curls feeling full and fresh after washing.

By the way, after washing, the pleasant aroma of coconut remains on your hair for a long time. Credit: Rex by All Things Hair

2. How to use coconut oil for hair

If you do use pure coconut oil for your hair, you need to lightly melt it first. You can do this over very low heat or in a water bath. In addition, after a while, coconut oil may melt on its own from the warmth of your hands. After this, apply the product to your hair and cover with a plastic cap.

How long can you leave it on and how often can you use coconut oil on your hair? Basic advice: try not to overdo it. At a minimum, apply coconut oil to your hair no more than once a week and do not leave it on your hair for more than an hour. If your hair is not dry, reduce the exposure time and do it even less often.

3. How to use coconut oil for hair and how to wash it off

Perhaps the main tip on how to use coconut oil for hair correctly is to rinse it thoroughly with shampoo. Don't be afraid to lose the beneficial properties of the oil. Still, even after using shampoo, some oil will remain in the hair.

This is why coconut oil is sometimes used as a “pre-wash” or pre-cleanser. That is, apply to the head literally for a few minutes before using shampoo.

Combine natural care with ready-made products and maintain a balance. Credit: Rex by All Things Hair

It will help improve the condition of the skin, hair, nails, normalize metabolic processes in the body and rejuvenate Coconut oil. The rich composition of the product makes it a universal remedy that is used in medicine, cosmetology, and cooking. In order not to harm your health and fully experience the healing properties, you need to learn how to use it correctly.

Coconut oil is a unique product, applicable in cosmetology, food and medicine

Types of Coconut Oil

This vegetable oil is extracted from the fibrous pulp of the coconut. The finished product is obtained by hot or cold pressing. Production technology affects the beneficial properties of the final product:

• Cold-pressed coconut oil retains all its healing properties. The technology of the first cold pressing is called extra virgin;
• The hot press product is stripped of its minerals and vitamins, leaving only fatty acids.

Vegetable oil also differs in the method of purification - refined and unrefined. In the first case, the product is practically colorless and odorless, which gives it a wide range of uses:

• in cosmetology – for problems with sensitive skin;
• in cooking - for frying, salad dressings;
• in soap making and aromatherapy.

Refined - replaces any other drying oil without compromising the taste of the dishes.

Refined oil can replace any other

Unrefined product retains all useful micro- and macroelements, vitamins, fatty acids. It is widely used as a flavoring additive in salads, smoothies, and baked goods. Unrefined fat has a pronounced coconut taste and aroma, which does not allow it to be used in the preparation of main dishes, where these qualities are inappropriate.

Both refined and unrefined oil are edible. The main thing is that it is without additives and preservatives. If a product has been insufficiently processed or contains chemicals, it is not suitable for food and is classified as a cosmetic product.

A rare type of coconut extract is considered to be organic oil. It is extracted from the flesh of coconut grown without the addition of insecticides or chemicals.

Variation in consistency:

• hard – hardens at temperatures below 25 degrees, has a yellow or white color, and looks like goose fat;
• liquid – takes on a liquid form at a temperature of +26 degrees.

If the product does not change its texture when the temperature changes, we are talking about low-quality raw materials, which contain chemical additives - dyes, flavors, anti-thickeners.

Chemical composition of coconut oil

Most of the composition of coconut oil extract is lauric acid - about 53%, slightly less contains carboxylic acid - 21%. Thanks to these components, it is a dietary product and helps burn excess fat.

In addition to fatty acids, essential oil contains:

• minerals - iron, manganese, magnesium, zinc, copper, phosphorus, iodine, potassium, sodium, calcium and selenium;
• beta-carotene;
• vitamins – PP, C, H, E, group B (B1, B2, B 5, B6, B12);
• saturated polyacids– stearic, palmitic, linoleic, hexane, oleic, caprylic, decanoic.

The complex composition of the product has a positive effect on the skin, hair, nails and the body in general.

What is coconut oil for?

Coconut oil is suitable for both cooking and cosmetic purposes. It is also practiced in medicine.

The oil can be easily used for various masks

Table “Where is coconut extract used”

Application area	For what purpose
Medicine	Normalization of hormonal levels. Strengthening the immune system. Stimulation of metabolic processes. Removing toxic substances from the body. Enveloping the gastric mucosa when affected by ulcerative processes. Relieving irritation from insect bites. Relief from cough – helps remove mucus from the bronchi, improves the condition of the respiratory tract
Cosmetology	Moisturizing and softening the skin and hair. Smoothing wrinkles. Returning firmness and elasticity to the skin. Treatment of acne and acne. Slowing down the aging process
Food	Frying vegetables, meat. Salad dressing. Improving the taste of desserts

In folk recipes, coconut fat is used to combat skin rashes, herpes, stretch marks, and cracked nipples in nursing mothers. Benefits for children– helps get rid of lice, worms, eliminate diaper rash.

Useful properties of the product

The most valuable extract is considered to be unrefined, cold-pressed raw materials. After processing, all useful components are preserved in it.

Coconut oil, like shavings, is used in cooking - they have a positive effect on the body

The combination of several fatty acids in the product gives it medicinal properties. If coconut oil is regularly taken orally, positive changes occur in the body:

• brain function improves;
• excess cholesterol is removed, blockage of blood vessels is prevented;
• metabolic processes are normalized - excess fat is broken down, metabolism improves;
• toxins and waste are removed;
• blood pressure and blood sugar levels return to normal.

An oil product made from coconut pulp has antifungal and antiviral properties, eliminates inflammatory processes and has an antibacterial effect.

Methods of use at home

Using coconut oil at home is aimed at improving the condition of hair, facial and body skin, and normalizing the functioning of internal organs. It is used both externally and internally.

In cosmetology

The complex of amino acids in the oil extract allows the product to be used as a powerful antioxidant, rejuvenating and relaxing agent. It is also added to masks, baths, and in the preparation of moisturizing and nourishing creams.

Making a coconut mask with honey

Recipe with coconut extract for hair

In a separate container, combine 2 tbsp. l. coconut oil, 1 tbsp. l. lavender essential oil and 1 tsp. honey, stir until smooth. Rub the product into the scalp with smooth movements. Lightly massaging improves blood circulation, which helps nourish the bulbs. The method is well suited for dull and brittle hair, helps eliminate dandruff.

Cream for oily skin

Mix 1 tsp. cream for problem skin and ½ tsp. refined coconut oil. Do not use unrefined oil, otherwise there is a risk of further clogging the pores and aggravating the condition of the epidermis.

You can prepare the cream yourself or buy ready-made

Apply the finished mixture to your face and gently rub until completely absorbed. The cosmetic product helps improve blood microcirculation, narrow pores and reduce acne and redness.

Body scrub-gel

Combine 50 ml of melted coconut fat, 3 tsp. sugar and 15 g salt. Apply the scrub well to the body and rinse off under a contrast shower. The product soothes the skin, removes toxins and helps eliminate cellulite.

Essential oil for massage

Add 5 drops of coconut essential extract to any massage oil. The finished product relaxes muscles well, softens and moisturizes the skin.

Eyelid Recipe

Every evening, lubricate your eyelids with a few drops of thickened oil. The method helps smooth out facial wrinkles, reduce age-related changes and increase the elasticity of the delicate epidermis.

Gently apply thickened coconut oil to your eyelids.

Coconut extract is great for hands and nails. This is an essential lip moisturizer. It is enough to rub a few drops into the skin and there will be no trace of dryness, flaking, and the nails will become stronger and will not flake.

In medicine

The unique combination of fatty acids with vitamins and minerals makes coconut fat an invaluable assistant in the prevention of peptic ulcers of the digestive tract, the treatment of coughs, and skin pathologies.

Cough remedy

Dissolve 1 tsp in a cup of hot tea. coconut oil. Drink a healing drink 3-4 times a day.

Coconut oil in tea will not only add benefits, but also add a new taste

Recipe for the prevention of stomach and intestinal diseases

Start treatment with ½ tsp. coconut oil morning and evening. Increase the dose daily so that in 5-7 days you reach 1-2 tbsp. l. Use the product, diluted, in warm water or pure, with 0.5 cups of any liquid.

Lice remedy

Wet your head with a weak solution of apple cider vinegar. Rub coconut oil into the skin and distribute the product evenly through the hair. Leave the mask on your head for 10 minutes, then wash your hair with shampoo.

Rubbing coconut oil into your hair will protect your head from unfriendly guests.

Coconut fat for skin rashes

Thickened coconut oil is great for treating damaged skin. Treat sore areas with a small piece 3-5 times a day. The product reduces inflammation, dries out weeping ulcers and accelerates the healing process.

An effective way to treat oral diseases

Rinse mouth 1 tbsp. l. coconut oil 20 minutes. Carry out the procedure every morning and evening, immediately after brushing your teeth. The method helps cure stomatitis, strengthen teeth, relieve inflammation of the gums and remove bad breath.

Recipe for losing excess weight

Every morning, take 1 tbsp on an empty stomach. l. coconut oil. Before lunch and dinner, also drink 1 tbsp. l. product, but not earlier than 40 minutes before eating.

3 tablespoons of coconut oil per day will keep your skin firm

Consumption of coconut oil for medicinal purposes should be in moderation. In adults, the daily dose is no more than 3 tbsp. l., and for children 1 tsp is enough. in a day.

For food

Refined coconut fat is an excellent substitute for sunflower and olive raw materials. The unrefined product is often used instead of cow butter, but in smaller quantities.

Effective ways to use coconut fat in the kitchen:

• if you grease the baking sheet and baked goods with coconut oil, it will acquire a rich aroma and will not burn;
• the combination of coconut oil with honey and lemon makes an excellent dressing for vegetable salad;
• if you add 2 tbsp. l. coconut oil in 200 g of walnuts and grind in a blender to obtain a fragrant nut paste;
• 2-3 tbsp. l. Coconut oils allow food to cook well without burning.

Adding an oil product to food saturates the food with useful substances. For people on a diet, coconut product not only improves the taste of cooked dishes, but also promotes weight loss.

Harm of coconut oil

Despite the many beneficial properties, the oil product remains a source of fats, which, if consumed in excess, can be harmful to human health:

• increase the level of bad cholesterol in the blood;
• aggravate the course of ulcerative pathologies of the stomach and intestines;
• clog pores, disrupt the functioning of the sebaceous glands;
• provoke allergic reactions on the skin.

Compliance with proportions and nuances in use allows you to get the maximum effect and will not cause harm to health.

Contraindications

The oil extract is not suitable for people who have an individual intolerance to this product. In other cases, the product is completely harmless, provided it is used in moderation.

Where to buy oil and price?

The natural oil product is sold in pharmacies and specialty stores. The price depends on the volume of packaging, the quality of raw materials (refined, unrefined, type of pressing) and ranges from 250 to 1500 rubles.

How to distinguish natural coconut oil from fake?

Several main differences between natural coconut oil and cheap counterfeits will help you protect yourself from counterfeiting:

• real coconut oil solidifies at temperatures below 25 degrees - the colder it is, the thicker the fat becomes;
• the color of the unrefined product is white, and the refined product is close to transparent;
• there is a pleasant smell of coconut, not harsh or cloying;
• when heating a bottle of oil, no water droplets should appear, otherwise there are additives in the oil;
• the natural product is easily washed off from the skin and hair; if this does not happen, we are talking about palm oil with coconut flavoring.

What natural coconut oil looks like is shown in the photo.

In the article we discuss coconut oil in cosmetology. We talk about its benefits and effectiveness. By following our recommendations, you will learn how to use the product for cosmetic purposes.

The beneficial properties of coconut oil are due to its unique composition. It contains polyunsaturated fatty acids:

• lauric;
• palmitic;
• miramistin;
• oleic;
• caprylic;
• stearic;
• nylon;
• capric;
• linoleic

There are two types of coconut oil: refined and unrefined. In refined oil the amount of useful microelements is minimal, in unrefined oil it is maximum.

What effect does the oil have:

• destroys germs and bacteria;
• smoothes wrinkles;
• protects against UV rays;
• eliminates corns and cracks on elbows and heels;
• makes the skin firm and elastic;
• eliminates pigmentation;
• treats skin after sunburn.

Effectiveness of coconut oil

The effectiveness of coconut oil is as follows:

1. Possibility of using massage products. The oil eliminates fatigue and tension in the body. After applying the product, a protective film appears on the body, protecting the skin from the negative effects of the external environment.
2. Elimination of fungal infections. The product can be used to combat fungal infections, as well as fungal yeast infections.
3. Elimination of acne, blackheads and other rashes on the face, as well as insect bites. The oil product destroys bacteria that cause inflammation, promotes the healing of microtraumas after acne, and reduces itching. The oil can be applied directly to problem areas of the skin.
4. Getting rid of herpes. Coconut oil has antiviral effects and can be used to treat external signs of illness.
5. Coconut oil for hair gives hair elasticity, silkiness, eliminates dandruff and seborrhea. The oleic acid contained in the product moisturizes dry hair, and caprylic acid regulates sebum production, making hair beautiful and healthy.
6. Maintaining the necessary moisture balance in the epidermal cells, preventing skin drying out after prolonged exposure to the sun, preventing pigmentation and the first age-related changes.
7. Elimination of cellulite and stretch marks.

How to use coconut oil

You can use the oil in its pure form or add it to cosmetic products.

When used in its pure form, apply a small amount to the skin. Upon contact with the skin, the oil quickly melts and is absorbed.

The product is often used for massage and care of the face, neck, décolleté and body.

Before applying, do a small test for an allergic reaction. Apply a small amount of oil to the area of ​​the elbow, after 10-15 minutes, see if there is any redness in this area. If they are unavailable, you can use a natural product.

Before use, heat the required amount of oil in a water bath. They can remove makeup from the face. Or add to regular cream, lotion, milk.

6 Best Coconut Oil Recipes for Cosmetic Purposes

Below are recipes for cosmetics based on coconut oil.

For hair

Ingredients:

1. Coconut oil - 5 ml.
2. Castor oil - 5 ml.
3. Ether of rosemary, ylang-ylang, thyme - 3 drops each.

How to cook: Mix the oils.

How to use: Apply the product to the hair roots 30 minutes before washing your hair.

Result: Improved hair condition.

Recipe No. 2

Ingredients:

1. Egg - 3 pcs.
2. Coconut and almond oil - 30 g each.
3. Castor oil - 5 gr.
4. Honey - 60 gr.
5. Lemon juice - 20 gr.

How to cook: Melt the coconut oil in a water bath, add the remaining ingredients and stir.

How to use: Apply the mixture to dry or slightly damp curls and distribute over the entire length. Place a plastic bag and a hat on top. After an hour, rinse off the product with warm water and shampoo.

Result: Adding shine, elasticity and smoothness to curls.

For face

Ingredients:

1. Coconut oil - 60 ml.
2. Olive oil - 20 ml.
3. Benzoin - 1 drop.
4. Rosewood and palmarosa oils - 10 drops each.

How to cook: Heat the oils in a water bath, add ethers to the composition.

How to use: Apply the product to clean skin of the face and neck, wait until completely absorbed. Store the composition for no longer than 15 days.

Result: Nourish and moisturize the skin of the neck and face.

Anti-wrinkle

Ingredients:

1. Coconut and - 10 ml each.
2. Olive - 20 ml.

How to cook: Mix the ingredients.

How to use: Soak a cotton pad in the mixture and apply it to your face and area around the eyes. Leave the product on your face until completely absorbed.

Result: Eliminating crow's feet.

For stretch marks

Ingredients:

1. Coconut oil - 50 ml.
2. Cocoa butter - 10 ml.
3. Almond oil - 100 ml.

How to cook: Heat the coconut oil in a water bath and add the remaining oils to it.

How to use: Treat the stretch marks with the composition.

Result: Elimination of stretch marks.

For body

Ingredients:

1. Coconut oil - 60 ml.
2. Rock salt - 60 gr.
3. Brown sugar - 60 gr.

How to cook: Mix the ingredients.

How to use: Apply the product 2 times a week while showering. Apply it to clean skin with massage movements.

Result: Elimination of dead cells.

Homemade beauty recipe with coconut oil

The presented recipe for a face scrub based on coconut oil is easy to make at home.

Ingredients:

1. Coconut oil - 40 gr.
2. Sea salt - 100 gr.
3. Natural yogurt - 100 ml.
4. Full fat milk - 30 ml.

How to cook: Mix salt and oil. In a separate container, mix milk and yogurt.

How to use: Apply the scrub to a clean face using gentle circular movements. Massage the skin for several minutes, then rinse with warm water. Treat the skin with milk and yoghurt mixture.

Result: Eliminates dead skin cells, giving elasticity and softness to facial skin.

For the skin around the eyes

Ingredients:

1. Coconut oil (unrefined) - 30 gr.
2. Vitamin E - 1 ampoule.

How to cook: Melt coconut oil in a water bath, add vitamin E to it.

How to use: Apply to damp face and eye area. Wait until the composition is completely absorbed.

Result: Elimination of wrinkles, improvement of skin condition.

Are you looking for easy and healthy recipes?

Click on point No. 3 - how to use coconut oil in food, doses, methods, secrets.

In the comments, you can leave feedback on what other products you would like to explore with us.

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Appearance and composition of the product

Oh, fried potatoes with onions and garlic - a favorite childhood treat...

We stepped over our usual tastes and began to study “horror stories” about carcinogens and trans fats. Having quickly come across coconut oil, we delved deeply into the topic based on reliable nutraceutical data.

Remember! Let's talk about cold pressed oil, which retains all beneficial properties. It is the most beneficial to eat.

The first thing that inspires you to try the product is the not catchy, but noticeable smell of coconut. The second thing that arouses curiosity is the change in oil texture when the temperature drops below +25 degrees. From the refrigerator you will get something pleasantly white, fragrant, similar in consistency to butter.

• The calorie content per 100 grams is high, like all fats - about 860 kcal.
• 1 tablespoon contains 130-140 kcal.

Included high in saturated fatty acids (SFAs)- up to 90%:

• Lauric - up to 55%
• Oleic - 11%
• Caprylic - 10%
• Capric - 9.7%
• Myristic - 8%
• Palmitic - 5%
• Stearic - 1.3%

The oil also contains polyphenols (aroma and taste!), vitamin E, some calcium, phosphorus, iron and organic sulfur.

Should we be so afraid of saturated fats?

"Animal fats are harmful." Let's debunk an old myth!

The fight against saturated fatty acids (hereinafter referred to as SFAs) since the mid-20th century has only led to the fact that the leading cause of death in developed countries has become vascular accidents - heart attack, stroke, thrombosis. The basis of the disease is atherosclerosis, i.e. deposition of cholesterol on the inner wall of blood vessels, which narrows their lumen.

We began to replace products with EFAs with fats with unsaturated acids. But sunflower and other popular oils are very high in omega-6 fatty acids. As a result, the imbalance of omegas in our diet is catastrophic.

The body benefits from a ratio of omega 3 to 6 of no more than 1:4.

• Due to the abundance of unbalanced vegetable oils, we eat at least 1:16, or even 1:20. This alignment increases systemic senile inflammation and brings illness and death closer.

It has been proven that manically removing cholesterol from food cannot significantly affect atherosclerosis. Only 20-25% of cholesterol is absorbed from food.

The rest of the cholesterol is the result of synthesis in the liver to patch up inflamed areas inside the blood vessels. The cause of atherosclerosis is inflammation of the intima of blood vessels. It is provoked by excess carbohydrates, trans fats and the dominance of omega-6 over omega-3.

NLCs stand aside from this disgrace. A lot of research has already accumulated that returns nutrients from disgrace. Every cell in the body needs them for growth, development and health.

Beneficial properties for health and beauty

More than 1,600 studies support the nutritional benefits of coconut oil.

The listed acids in coconut oil are: medium chain triglycerides. The main things learned about each:

• Either good for the heart and other aspects of health;
• Or it’s enough not to eat too much (in this case, on a therapeutic ketogenic diet, such acids play a leading role);
• Or combine with olive oil to balance the composition of acids and neutralize modest harm.

Let's take lauric fatty acid, which is the most in coconut oil (up to 55%). It has a special structure for easy absorption. In our body, the acid is converted into monolaurin. An amazing substance that is also found in women's breast milk and has powerful antiviral, antimicrobial and antibacterial effects.

Other properties of lauric acid are illustrated below, according to scientific research from the PubMed database.

The most scrupulous nutritionists advise the following.

To reduce even the small but still possible harm from lauric fatty acid, consume coconut oil accompanied by extra virgin olive or peanut oil. These products contain oleic acid, which helps lauric acid to exhibit only positive properties.

Benefits from food use

The list of benefits of coconut oil covers almost all organs and systems:

• Luxurious hair and skin care, incl. smoothing wrinkles and cellulite (which we will talk about later);
• Maintaining harmony in the lipid profile (cholesterol and atherosclerosis hide here);
• Strengthening the immune system (mainly thanks to the invaluable monolaurin and vitamin E);
• Strengthening bones and teeth, because oil promotes the absorption of vitamin D and calcium;
• Healing nutrition for Alzheimer's disease, arthritis and oncology;
• High-quality digestion, incl. support of beneficial microflora and suppression of candida fungi (nod to monolaurin and caprylic acid);
• Stabilization of healthy hormonal levels;
• Helps with weight loss and blood glucose balance.

Coconut oil for weight loss

The question deserves separate clarification.

1. The benefit is determined by the dose limitation: up to 2 tablespoons per day, not daily.
2. And also the feature of medium chain triglycerides. They are very easily digestible, do not require excess enzymes and bile, and quickly enter the liver for energy synthesis. This speeds up metabolism (up to 46%!) and protects against the transfer of incoming fat to harmful reserves on the waist and hips. Ketone bodies are actively formed, which significantly reduce appetite. The result is long-lasting satiety and a lot of energy.

Overweight is often accompanied by hyperinsulinism and gall bladder problems. Coconut oil does not overload internal organs. And when consuming our traditional oils, overload is inevitable. This is because long chain triglycerides predominate in them.

Harmony in the hormonal background ensures stable slimness. And this is another merit of medium-chain fatty acids. They help convert cholesterol into the sterone pregnenolone, a precursor to our hormones.

The mysteries of the intestines will not be ignored either. The imbalance of intestinal flora into Candida fungi is the reason for the insatiable craving for sugar. Coconut oil suppresses candida and strengthens microbiota balance.

Why it's suitable for frying: a rare advantage

Unrefined coconut oil has a high smoke point. According to various sources, from 177°C. Refined coconut oil has an even higher value (from 204°C, but it also has much less benefits).

At the same time, there are very few polyunsaturated fatty acids in coconut oil (up to 2-3%). There is almost nothing for harmful trans fats to form from, even at very high temperatures.

When frying, the average temperature ranges from 120 to 170°C, less often up to 200°C. When extinguishing it is even lower: up to 100°C.

Let's put the facts together.

1. The “smoke point” of coconut oil is almost 2 times higher than the stewing temperature, and even quick frying in a hot frying pan is unlikely to heat this fat to dangerous levels.
2. Even if the temperature soars, coconut oil is primarily composed of fatty acids that are more heat-resistant (saturated).

Here's why frying with coconut oil is safe, although not cheap.

And constantly frying refined sunflower or corn is directly harmful to health. Because they contain a lot of polyunsaturated fatty acids (more than 50%). These oils are dangerous after refining, and unrefined ones have a low smoke point (about 107°C).

• Of all the heat treatment methods It is safest to stew and steam. Frying and even baking from 180 degrees is a dubious choice for products containing a lot of easily oxidized polyunsaturated fatty acids. This is especially important in children's and medical nutrition.

Use in food: 10 simple recipes

How tasty and healthy is it to use coconut oil in food?

Safely sauté, fry and bake.

This is a clear advantage compared to sunflower or corn, which are unstable when heated. Start with an omelet: you will be surprised at how economical this product is due to its solid consistency when stored in the refrigerator. A small amount on a fork will grease a wide, hot pan normally.

It’s very tasty to bake vegetables (carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes). Try to bake at a temperature no higher than 180 degrees Celsius. Pairs well with curry and other spicy seasonings. All dishes with an Asian twist are ideal for your first introduction to the rich possibilities of fat.

Healthier baking is within our power!

We replace oils that are unsafe when heated with coconut oil - in the amount specified in the recipe. If solid fat is required, freeze the product first. Grease your pans and baking sheets is another good choice.

We enrich breakfast: in coffee or on toast.

• Just add 1 heaping teaspoon to your morning coffee. And whipping it in a blender and sweetening it slightly is the easiest way to get used to a healthy substitute for cream.
• Spread toast with whole grain bran bread. An affordable snack with a pleasant coconut aroma.

We prepare healing homemade mayonnaise.

1. We need 2 oils: 0.5 cups olive and 1 cup liquid coconut.
2. If necessary, let the second one melt: place the container with it in a slightly larger bowl with warm water.
3. Mix 4 egg yolks, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 0.5 teaspoon of mustard powder in a blender.
4. Reduce the speed to minimum and very slowly (!), in a stream, add 2 oils - coconut and olive.

Fondue with dark chocolate and fruits.

(70%+) and add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Bananas, apples, strawberries, wild strawberries and nectarines - this recipe is a hit! everything will work.

Add healthy fats to smoothies.

For any recipe - 1 teaspoon per 1-2 glasses. It is especially good to fortify drinks with a low-fat base (juice, kefir, water).

Relieves colds and sore throats.

Method number 1. We brush our teeth. Slowly dissolve and swallow ½-1 teaspoon of oil 3 times a day.

Method number 2. We also use oil with powder: for 1-2 glasses - 1 teaspoon. Mix well with a fork and store in the refrigerator.

A delicious choice for raw vegan desserts.

Raw candies and cakes include coconut oil as an ingredient that holds its shape well after cooling. A special delight is the creamy taste and strong friendship with nuts and dried fruits.

Possible harm and contraindications

Everything is medicine. Or poison if the dose is wrong.

Start using coconut oil in your food c 0.5-1 teaspoon per day.

Monitor your reaction, especially in the skin and digestive tract. The first day is for acute intolerance and a little later (1-2 weeks of use). It happens that pathological sensitivity to a product from a different climate zone manifests itself over time according to a cumulative principle.

If you are on a balanced diet, the average daily dose limit is 2 tablespoons, not daily. It's best to save this fat for quick frying. And for food without heating, focus on olive oil.

Dose for children weighing from 20 to 40 kg - up to 2 teaspoons per day+ gradual, careful introduction of the product.

For older people - depending on the reaction: 1-2 tablespoons daily. For problems of the central nervous system (Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, etc.) - up to 3-4 tablespoons.

Where to buy, how to choose and store correctly

We store it simply: glass, darkness, refrigerator.

Pharmacies most often sell hot-pressed coconut oil, which is relatively suitable for cosmetics.

For food consumption, our task is to find unrefined, cold-pressed coconut oil. It must be a pure product with only one ingredient - coconut oil:

1. On the label the production method is “cold pressed” or “extra virgin”;
2. The quality of the raw materials is “organic”, preferably without the use of hexane. Names of popular strict certifications: BDIH, NaTrue, USDA Organic.

For us, shopping in online stores is most convenient. Take your time and study the information on the product card. If the store is large, pay attention to reviews and ratings. Detailed customer opinions and a rating of 4.5 are a good sign.

Where to buy coconut oil for food?

The online store 365detox.ru is relevant for Moscow.

We use the giant iHerb. its wide range. The store ships worldwide and is very well organized in terms of product cards, reviews and ratings.

Four products we love.

1. From TM Nutiva: economical large packaging.
2. From TM Nature’s Way: a successful jar to try (454 g)
3. From TM Jarrow Formulas: great pleasure.
4. For the first test, the jar is 2 times smaller.

High-quality coconut oil is not cheap, but it is better to pay for health than to spend money on illnesses.

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Here are some safe and healthy ways to use coconut oil to improve your health.

Coconut oil

The areas of its use are truly limitless: cosmetology, health, cooking, alternative to household chemicals, pet care... Do you think we are fantasizing?

Here are 60 healthy and enjoyable ways to use coconut oil in different areas of human life:

Coconut oil for beauty

In cosmetology, coconut oil can be used for the entire body, but it is best suited for hair, facial skin and cuticles.

1. Natural conditioner. The oil moisturizes and nourishes the hair, so it makes an excellent natural balm. You can make a hair mask, but do not apply the oil in its pure form: due to its greasy content, it will be difficult to wash off.

2. Scalp care. Massaging your scalp with coconut oil will get rid of dandruff and prevent it from appearing again.

3. Hair styling. Although Thai women always rub a drop of oil through their hair before leaving the house, it is better to observe moderation.

Victoria Shinal, cosmetologist:Facial skin is more delicate, so I would recommend using coconut oil more for the body and hair. At the same time, I welcome the presence of coconut oil in professional cosmetics. To nourish the hair structure, I recommend braiding your hair overnight and soaking it in coconut oil, and in the morning wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner. It is very good to use massage oil after a shower for dry skin types. I recommend a hand mask: mix 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, 1 tablespoon of glycerin, 1 teaspoon of chamomile fatty oil and 5 drops each of lemon and orange essential oils. Massage your hands and nails regularly with the resulting mixture.

4. Care for cuticles and hand skin. Coconut oil will help get rid of dry and flaky hand skin. It will soften the cuticle and make nail care easier.

5. Shaving cream. The oil is a good substitute for shaving cream: it will help the razor glide, soften the skin and is suitable for sensitive skin.

6. Anti-wrinkle product. Natural fats and lauric acid nourish the skin and smooth out fine wrinkles. The oil is perfect for freshening the face in the morning if applied before bed, as well as for the décolleté area.

7. Sunburn remedy. For sunburn, you can apply a few drops of oil to the reddened areas of the skin. This will relieve irritation and help avoid peeling.

8. Lip balm and gloss. If you suffer from dry or chapped lips, try using oil instead of balm.

9. Makeup remover. Apply the oil to the skin, and after five minutes, remove the makeup with a damp cloth.

10. Remedy for eczema. The oil will help soothe the skin during various types of rashes, reduce itching and irritation.

11. To strengthen eyelashes. Apply a couple of drops of oil to your eyelashes before going to bed. This will help strengthen them and quickly regenerate.

12. To remove wax. The oil will help remove wax after hair removal. Apply a small amount to sticky areas and wipe with a damp cloth.

13. Foot cream. The oil will soften the skin of your feet and become an alternative to expensive antiperspirants. To eliminate odor, add a couple of drops of tea tree oil to the product and use it as a cream.

14. Antiperspirant. Coconut oil can be used as a natural alternative to deodorant (except on days when you exercise or do vigorous physical activity).

15. Whitening paste. To keep your teeth white, try brushing them every few weeks with a paste of coconut oil and baking soda.

16. Oil for home SPA treatments. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to coconut oil for a great home spa.

17. Fight acne. After cleansing your skin, apply a thin layer of coconut oil to the inflamed areas. It will soothe the skin and relieve redness.

18. Bath oil. Add a spoonful of coconut oil to warm water for a muscle-relaxing bath.

19. Body scrub. Mix the oil with brown sugar or salt, add a couple of drops of essential oil - and you get a gentle but effective scrub.

20. Face mask. Coconut oil will help breathe life into dull skin and is a good antibacterial agent.

Coconut oil for health

It’s not for nothing that we mentioned that coconut oil is sold in pharmacies. Traditional Asian medicine has long used it in the treatment of various ailments; it is a key component of Indian Ayurveda medicine. Of course, the treatment of serious illnesses must be approved by a doctor, but here are some safe and healthy ways to improve your health with coconut oil.

1. Oral hygiene. A paste of oil and soda will make your teeth white, and if you rinse your mouth with oil for 10 minutes, it will help fight germs and freshen your breath.

2. Treatment of colds. Consuming coconut oil will boost your immunity (it increases your white blood cell count), which will help you fight off illness.

3. For diaper rash. If you have chafed skin, coconut oil with calendula can help soothe the irritation. This ointment is also suitable for children.

4. For cough and sore throat. A teaspoon of oil or tea with it will relieve sore throat and reduce cough.

5. Strengthening bones. Coconut oil improves the absorption of calcium and magnesium by the body, therefore has a beneficial effect on bones.

6. As an intimate lubricant. Please note: oil softens latex and is therefore incompatible with condoms!

7. For nursing mothers. The oil will help prevent the nipple skin from drying out and cracking.

8. Stress relief. Coconut oil is used in aromatherapy. Take some oil on your fingertips and massage your scalp and temples. This will help relieve stress and relax.

9. Against herpes. The oil will stop cold sores if you apply it to your lips as soon as you feel a tingling or burning sensation.

10. Help with bites. Coconut oil reduces itching from mosquito and other insect bites.

11. Disinfection of small wounds. The oil will prevent dirt and bacteria from getting into cuts and scrapes. This is a good temporary barrier to infection.

12. Treating yeast infections. Coconut oil can be used as an additional treatment for fungus.

13. Acceleration of metabolism. The oil improves metabolism and stimulates the body to burn fat.

14. Insect repellent. To repel insects, add a couple of drops of peppermint, tea tree or rosemary essential oil to coconut oil and apply it to your skin. A restful sleep is guaranteed to you!

15. Easier breathing. To relieve congestion in your respiratory tract, mix coconut oil with tea tree oil and rosemary oil and apply it under your nose and on your chest.

16. Regulation of cholesterol levels. Lauric acid increases the level of “good” cholesterol in the blood and thereby reduces the load on the heart and blood vessels.

17. Help with nosebleeds. Often the cause is dry skin. Lubricate your nostrils with oil or insert oil swabs into them.

18. Lice remedy. To get rid of lice, you need to wash your hair with apple cider vinegar and apply coconut oil to damp hair. After 24 hours, the oil can be washed off - and the problem is solved.

Coconut oil in cooking

1. Popcorn! Pop your popped corn in coconut oil instead of sunflower oil and enjoy a naturally sweet, mild flavored treat.

2. Vegetarian baked goods. The butter can be used in cakes, cookies, baked goods and vegetarian recipes.

3. Oil will prevent food from burning. Grease the pan with it before baking.

4. New taste of tea and coffee. You can refresh the taste of your morning tea or coffee by adding a couple of drops of coconut oil. Its natural sweetness and aroma will give you a very pleasant start to your morning.

5. For salads. Try replacing olive oil with coconut oil. Just heat the dish before serving, otherwise the dressing will thicken.

6. For toast. It will be very tasty if you grease sweet toast with butter. You can sprinkle them with cinnamon or vanilla sugar on top.

7. For energy smoothies. A spoonful of butter in your smoothie will make the drink a natural super energy drink!

8. Nut butter base. If you mix coconut oil with nuts in a blender, you get a homemade treat with a rich aroma and a lot of beneficial properties.

Maxim Danko, chef:In fact, you still need to be able to combine coconut oil in salads; for us, olive oil is a more common dressing. But I always advocate experiments. Where butter will be ideal is in baking. It gives a pleasant coconut aroma, which we associate with heavenly pleasure. They can even replace vanilla in recipes.

9. Frying. Oil will help enhance the taste of fried vegetables; it is good for cooking omelettes or fried eggs.

Oil in everyday life

1. Lighting a fire. Instead of chemicals, you can use cotton swabs with coconut oil.

2. Removing chewing gum. The oil will remove gum residue from fabric, carpet or hair.

3. For leather products. Rub the treated leather with coconut oil to restore its shine.

4. Tree care. Wipe wood products (furniture, cutting boards, spoons) with coconut oil to protect them from drying out and germs.

5. Cleaning the bathroom. Chemical cleaners can be replaced with coconut oil. It will remove dirt and disinfect the surface.

6. Lubricant for hinges. Lubricate the hinges with coconut oil to eliminate squeaking.

7. Caring for metal objects. Oil will restore shine to tarnished metal and remove rust.

8. Solution for stuck zipper. Apply a little coconut oil to the zipper and the problem will quickly be solved.

9. Caring for guitar strings. Coconut oil will also be useful for lubricating strings.

Pet care

1. For wool. The oil will make your cat or dog's coat healthy and shiny.

2.Prevention of hairballs. For long-haired cats, lubricate the paw pads with coconut oil.

3. Relieving itching. If your cat or dog is itchy, apply coconut oil to the affected area to relieve irritation. Of course, after consulting with your veterinarian first.

4. Healthy eating. Including oil in your pet's diet will help against arthritis, relieve ligament problems, and regulate weight. But be sure to talk to your veterinarian first!

It is impossible to list all the wonderful properties of coconut oil! We recommend ordering this souvenir, useful in every sense, from Thailand. Better yet, fly for it yourself. Have a nice trip!published