Did you know that coconut oil is more than just a healthier alternative to traditional cooking oils? Discover these 19 incredible uses of coconut oil beyond the kitchen! Coconut oil is a versatile and natural product that can be incorporated into many aspects of daily life, offering numerous health, beauty, and household benefits. Dive in and explore how it can transform your life in surprising ways!
Makeup Remover
Coconut oil can effectively remove makeup, including waterproof mascara. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to your face and gently massage it in to dissolve makeup. Wipe away with a warm, damp cloth. This not only cleanses but also moisturizes the skin.
Dandruff Treatment
Treat your dandruff by moisturizing your scalp with coconut oil and reduce inflammation. Warm a few tablespoons and massage into your scalp, focusing on dry, flaky areas. Leave it on for 30 minutes, then wash out with gentle shampoo. Regular application can significantly reduce dandruff and soothe the scalp. Works well for baby cradle cap too.
Natural Deodorant
Utilize its antibacterial properties as a natural deodorant. Mix with baking soda and a few drops of essential oil like lavender or tea tree to create a paste. Apply a small amount to your underarms to stay fresh and odor-free all day. This mixture is gentle on the skin and avoids chemicals found in commercial deodorants.
Healing Wounds
Coconut oil has been reported to stimulate collagen production and aid in the healing of minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. Clean the affected area thoroughly, then apply a thin layer of coconut oil. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can prevent infection and promote faster healing. Cover with a bandage if necessary, and reapply as needed.
Toothache Relief
Coconut oil can help alleviate toothache due to its antibacterial properties. Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes (a process known as oil pulling) to reduce bacteria and inflammation. Spit the oil out (not down the drain though as it might clog it) and rinse your mouth with warm water. This can also improve overall oral health and whiten teeth over time.
Treat Dry Cracked Heels
Use coconut oil as a moisturizer to soften and repair dry, cracked heels. Before bedtime, soak your feet in warm water for 10-15 minutes, then pat dry. Apply a generous amount of coconut oil to your heels and put on socks to lock in moisture overnight. Repeat nightly for best results.
Weight Loss
Incorporate 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil into your daily diet to aid in weight loss by boosting metabolism and reducing appetite. Add it to your coffee, smoothies, or cook your homestyle chicken with it. Its medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are quickly metabolized and can provide a quick source of energy, helping to burn more calories.
Stop Hair Fall
Nourish your scalp and strengthen your hair with coconut oil to prevent hair fall. Warm up some coconut oil and massage it into your scalp and hair, ensuring even distribution. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deep conditioning before washing it out with shampoo. Regular use can improve hair health and reduce hair loss.
Rash Treatment
Coconut oil’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it a safe and effective treatment for baby wipe or diaper rash. Clean the baby’s bottom with warm water and dry it completely. Apply a thin layer of coconut oil to the affected area. It will soothe irritation, create a barrier against moisture, and help heal the skin.
Stretch Mark Prevention
Keep your skin smooth and supple during pregnancy or weight fluctuations by using coconut oil to prevent pregnancy stretch marks. Massage coconut oil onto areas prone to stretching, such as the belly, hips, and breasts, to improve elasticity and promote skin regeneration. Regular application can help minimize the appearance of stretch marks and maintain healthy, hydrated skin.
Mosquito Repellent
Create a natural mosquito repellent by mixing it with essential oils. Combine a few drops of eucalyptus, lavender, or tea tree oil with the coconut oil. Apply this mixture to exposed skin to repel mosquitoes effectively. Reapply as needed, especially after sweating or swimming.
Longer Eyelashes
Promote the growth of longer, thicker eyelashes with coconut oil. Dip a clean mascara wand or cotton swab into the oil and apply it to your eyelashes before bed. Avoid getting oil in your eyes. Over time, its nourishing properties will enhance lash health and appearance.
Whiten Armpits
Coconut oil can help lighten dark armpits due to its moisturizing and exfoliating properties. Massage a small amount of coconut oil into your armpits daily after showering. Its natural acids will help reduce pigmentation and smooth the skin over time.
Smooth Dry Lips
Keep your lips hydrated and smooth by applying a small amount of coconut oil directly to your lips several times a day, especially before bed and before going out in cold or windy weather. Its emollient properties will protect and repair dry, chapped lips.
Cold Remedy
Coconut oil can help ease your child’s cold and flu symptoms. Add a teaspoon of coconut oil to a hot beverage like tea to soothe a sore throat. Its antiviral and antibacterial properties are one of the best flu remedies for kids and can help boost your immune system and speed up recovery.
Candle Making
Create your own natural candles with coconut oil as a clean-burning alternative to traditional candle wax. Melt coconut oil and mix it with essential oils for fragrance, then pour the mixture into candle molds and insert wicks. Once cooled and solidified, you’ll have beautiful homemade candles that fill your home with a delightful aroma.
Moisturizer for Skin
Benefit from its excellent moisturizing properties for your skin. Apply a small amount to your face and body after bathing to lock in moisture. It helps keep the skin soft, smooth, and hydrated, especially for dry or sensitive skin types.
Massage Oil
Use it as a soothing massage oil. Warm up some in your hands and apply to the skin for a relaxing massage. Its smooth texture and pleasant scent enhance the experience, while the moisturizing properties nourish the skin.
Shaving Cream Alternative
Replace your traditional shaving cream with coconut oil for a smooth shave. Apply a thin layer of coconut oil to the skin before shaving. It allows the razor to glide easily and reduces the risk of nicks and cuts while moisturizing the skin.
Tamara Tsaturyan is the owner and writer of Thriving In Parenting, a website focused on providing simple tips for busy parents — easy and healthy recipes, home decor and organization ideas and all things P A R E N T I N G.
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