Derived from the matured fruit of Coconut palm tree, coconut oil is used for culinary, medicinal and topical purposes worldwide. Rich in saturated fat and nutrients, it thwarts rancidification and has a long shelf life. It has proven anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties. From ancient times, the oil has been used as an effective home remedy to treat several human ailments and conditions. It is suitable for both external and internal use.
Top 7 ways of coconut oil can be used as a home remedy
1. Curing Tooth Pain
Many people may not be aware, but coconut oil can bring relief in tooth ache. In the Indian Ayurvedic tradition, this oil has been recommended for use in alleviating tooth sensitivity and strengthening tooth enamel. Studies have indicated its capacity to thwart tooth decay. You may apply coconut oil on the tooth causing pain with fingers and rub it slowly. You may also apply it after using tooth paste everyday to make gums stronger. For better results, mix clove oil with coconut oil and apply on the gums.
2. Treating Dry Skin
Applying coconut oil to alleviate skin dryness offers far better result than applying dollops of OTC skin care products like body creams and moisturizers, as it has been seen. Its antimicrobial and antifungal properties work wonders for dry, sensitive skin and the high fat content helps hydrate skin. It also contains Vitamins K and E that improves skin health. You also get relief from skin itching often triggered by dry skin. In winter months, you can apply it after mixing with small amounts of olive oil.
3. Treating Dark Circles And Puffy Eyes
If you spend lots of money in buying those OTC under eye creams and balms, it is time to make a change. Use virgin coconut oil to fade the dark circles caused by sleepless nights and alleviates symptoms of puffy eyes too! Its anti-inflammatory components like lauric acid helps bring down the puffiness. After regular use, you can actually find under-eye skin lightening up visibly.
4. Treating Brittle Nails
Many women suffer from brittle nails and using coconut oil helps resolve this problem effectively. Besides, it also helps cure nail infections caused by fungus. The delicate skin near cuticles is nourished by the oil. You may also apply lukewarm coconut oil on nails or keep nails dipped in the oil for a while for a better outcome.
5. Treating Dry Hair And Scalp Conditions
Coconut oil has proven nourishing and hydrating properties and you can use it to treat dry hair and scalp. It can be used to treat dandruff as well. You may opt for warm coconut oil massage on the scalp and it can also be mixed with other plant oils for making nourishing hair masks. You need to let the oil soak into scalp and then wash it off with mild shampoo.
6. Softening Dry lips
In winter months, a lot of men and women suffer from chapped lips which can be quite annoying. Instead of using petroleum based creams and gels which bring temporary relief, using virgin coconut oil is a better option. It keeps lips supple for long and thwarts dryness.
7. Treating Acne
Acne is a skin problem that haunts mostly teenagers, but at times haunt adults too. Instead of buying an OTC lotion or balm laden with harsh chemicals to eliminate acne, you may try applying virgin coconut oil. It kills infection leading to acne and resists recurrences. You may apply coconut oil on acne ridden spots and consume it internally to fight acne. Taking it internally helps the immune system to stave off infections that cause skin eruptions.