The Source of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is normally extracted from coconut fruits that are in most cases found in tropical regions. The fruit itself is not tasty but its oil can be used for hair conditioning and cooking. Coconut oil is a single ingredient product that works best in its natural form.

The Benefits of a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Treatment

• It boosts your hair volume and shine
• It smoothens and strengthens your hair
• It prevents dandruff
• It provides nourishment and protection to your hair
• It repairs and revitalizes your hair
• It moisturizes and conditions your hair
• Coconut oil contains vitamin K and E that weaken scalp infections
• It makes your hair thicker and silkier
• It can be used on all hair types
• Coconut is fresh and less expensive

How to Apply a Coconut Oil Hair Mask

1. Get a good supply of unrefined coconut oil
2. Set aside a couple of hours to do your treatment
3. Warm the oil to change it from its semisolid form to liquid form
4. Wash your hair with warm water and normal shampoo
5. Divide your hair down the centre and if possible clip each side
6. Apply and rub the coconut oil into your hair when it is still damp
7. Massage the hair using your hands to ensure that the oil reaches all areas including the scalp
8. Use a towel to wrap your hair and add a shower cap to retain heat
9. Relax for a minimum of two hours in order to give the Coconut oil some time to work
10. Unwrap your hair after two hours and rinse it using warm water
11. Leave the hair to dry naturally

There are certain things you must avoid if you want this type of hair treatment to give you maximum results. To begin with, coconut oil hair treatment can not work effectively if you continue using straightners. You should also avoid over brushing your hair because this leads to split ends and breakages. Using a hairdryer any time you wash your hair is not advisable is you want to enjoy the benefits of coconut oil hair treatment.

Drying your hair naturally from time to makes your hair strong and smooth. It is also important to avoid applying coconut oil on your scalp if you have a problem with your hair roots. Some roots get greasy and therefore coconut oil hair mask treatment may not be very effective. Coconut oil hair treatment should be done at least once in a week for you to achieve optimum hair healing. You should therefore try coconut oil hair mask treatment if you want to have that dream hair.

How To Oil Pull

Take 1-2 tbs of coconut oil that has been melted and swish it around your mouth for at least 5 minutes. Once you get more comfortable with oil pulling, you can pull for up to 20 minutes. Make sure to let the oil swish everywhere in your mouth; over your teeth, gums, and tongue. Also, be sure not to let the oil get in your throat, as it contains toxins that can make you sick. Make sure NOT to gargle it!

Once you have swished the oil around, spit it into a trash can. Coconut oil can solidify and clog your drains. Next, rinse your mouth out with clean, cold water a few times. This will ensure none of the toxins you just pulled from your body are still in your mouth.

Benefits of Oil Pulling

• Removes harmful toxins and bacteria from the body.
• Helps prevent and heal gum disease and tooth decay.
• Whitens teeth and freshens breath.
• Prevents and treats lung disease and bronchitis
• Decreases symptoms of PMS
• Helps with headaches
• Can help stop the growth of malignant tumors

Why You Should Oil Pull With Coconut Oil

Oil pulling with coconut oil provides more health benefits than oil pulling with other oils. After only a few days using coconut oil, improvements can be seen in oral health. Teeth are whiter, gums are healthier, and the breath is fresher. Pulling with coconut oil also helps stop gingivitis, gum disease, and tooth pain.

Coconut oil is also excellent for overall immune system health. It helps aid in the recovery of heart problems, asthma, diabetes, and cancer. It is also excellent for ulcers and allergies. It helps clean the blood and provides for optimal overall health.

What Coconut Oil Should You Use?

Unrefined virgin coconut oil is the best choice to make when choosing what oil you will you use for pulling. Most often, coconut oil will harden, and you will have to melt it to be able to use. Simply putting the jar in a pot of slow boiling water will melt the oil enough to use, just make sure to let it cool down before you put it in your mouth!

Spectrum Organic Unrefined Coconut Oil is a good brand to try. Wilderness Family also makes an excellent brand of coconut oil that has been successful for many in oil pulling. Nutiva Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is also a good choice. Make sure to avoid all poor quality oils. Higher quality oils will not contain chemical residues and are better for your overall health.

Why use Coconut Oil for Stretch Marks?

There are multiple reasons why coconut oil should be used to clear stretch marks. For instance, it is a moisturizing powerhouse, which is absorbed deeply and quickly into the skin. Coconut oil is very small at a molecular level, a reason why it goes deeper compared to the other oils. It is rich in antioxidant elements which fight the free radicals responsible for wrinkling of the skin and related ageing effects.

Coconut Oil for Stretch Marks during and after Pregnancy

Pregnancy may overstretch the skin, which means that stretch marks are bound to appear after delivery. This is why expectant women should prevent them before they appear. It is safe to both the mother and the infant because coconut oil contains a fatty acid known as lauric acid which is normally found in the mother’s milk.

When coconut oil is massaged on the skin, the lauric acid is absorbed and converted into an antibacterial and antiviral agent known as monolaurin, which aids the immune system in fighting harmful microbes.

Organic Coconut Oil vs. Petroleum and Invasive Treatments

Most of the over-the-counter remedies that are used to treat stretch marks actually contain one or more petroleum-based products. The other treatments such as laser, chemical peels and microdermabrasion are painful and more expensive. This is the reason why coconut oil should be given priority before the other treatments are considered.

How to use Coconut Oil

Pure organic coconut oil is very simple to use. A small quantity is massaged gently on the skin for several minutes before it is left to dry. It should be repeated at least four times a day, but this depends on the sensitivity of the skin. Raw coconut oil is the most ideal because it has no additives that may irritate the skin and prevent cell regeneration. To effectively prevent stretch marks on the entire body, coconut oil should be applied gently after a shower. It is best absorbed when the skin is slightly wet or damp, a reason why it should be kept near the shower for everyday application.

The effect of coconut oil can as well be strengthened through incorporating it into the diet. It takes control of the internal battle by aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption besides promoting weight loss. These are essential activities that can help alleviate stretch marks because as stated earlier, over-stretching of the skin caused by weigh loss can result into stretch marks.

In general organic coconut oil is natural; hence there is no threat of side effects. If it fails to work for some reason, which is very rare, at least it has no harmful effect on the skin. There are several other health benefits such as moisturizing the skin.

Pure coconut oil penetrates deep into the scalp, stops hair thinning and hair loss and stimulates growth of new hair. Coconut oil adheres to the weaker portions of the hair shaft. It prevents split ends as well as hair breakage.

Coconut oil also strengthens the hair tresses, reduces the amount of hair loss, moisturizes the hair and prevents dry hair and coarseness. The reduction in hair breakage leads to the growth of long hair.

Pure Extra Virgin Coconut Oil

Pure coconut oil is extracted from fresh dried coconut meat that is the edible part of a coconut. It is derived in the purest form and it is the healthiest type of coconut oil for hair. It goes through a minimal treatment and does not contain any preservatives or chemicals. It is also not hydrogenated.

How to Apply Coconut Hair Oil Effectively for Hair?

Although pure organic coconut oil is preferable as it does not contain chemical preservatives, pure extra virgin coconut oil can be the healthiest option. Coconut oil should be slightly warmed before applying to the hair.

It is beneficial to apply a liberal amount of oil directly on the scalp and hair after a shower daily as wet hair can easily absorb its nutrients. Just rub the oil thoroughly on the scalp for even distribution and leave it there for about half an hour for absorption. Then brush or comb the hair to ensure that the oil reaches all the strands of the hair.

Some people prefer to apply coconut oil about an hour before a shower, as they do not want to keep their hair oily. The oil can be massaged gently on the scalp and left overnight and washed in the morning with a mild shampoo containing natural extracts.

It is necessary to wash the hair properly with a mild shampoo containing natural ingredients to avoid clogging on the scalp that prevents hair growth. Whatever method is followed, using coconut oil every day can yield desirable results for your hair and scalp. If used daily, it will keep both your scalp and hair healthy.

Advantages of Pure Coconut Oil for Hair:

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, pure coconut oil can give several other benefits to the hair when used externally:

• Pure coconut oil can be used as a natural conditioner for hair. It easily penetrates into the scalp and conditions hair follicle and makes hair healthier, smoother and shinier.
• It is much cheaper than commercial hair conditioners.
• Coconut oil has no side effects
• Pure coconut oil provides protein to hair roots and minimizes hair loss.
• In addition to being a moisturizer, the antiviral and antibacterial properties of coconut oil help treating various skin problems such as dryness, dandruff, itching and seborrhea dermatitis, insect bites and lice
• Massaging scalp with it improves blood circulation to supply sufficient oxygen to hair follicles to make hair healthier and stronger.
• It also stimulates hair growth.
• Coconut oil also helps fight the harmful effects of stress, vitamin deficiency external elements,
• It helps clean the scalp by removing dead skin that clogs the hair follicles and prevents feeding nutrients to hair roots for proper hair growth.
• Coconut oil, can give additional benefit when ingested in the form of supplements.

You can get all these benefits of pure coconut oil for hair by getting it from reliable sources and using it in the right way.

Coconut Oil for the Skin

Coconut oil is not only universal, but, it can be used by people of all age groups. This kind of oil has over 100 varying uses. The women can use coconut oil to remove makeup while softening their skin. The oil can be applied on a cotton ball or cloth and, then used to remove makeup. This oil gently softens makeup making it easy to remove.

Those who love massages should consider using coconut oil. The beauty about this oil is that it moisturizes as well as softens the skin. In addition to this, the oil has an amazing smell.

Speaking of coconut oil for the skin, applying coconut oil regularly to bruises can aid in hastening the healing process and reducing discoloration and swelling. This oil also helps to get rid of oily skin by simply applying a small amount to the affected area. This oil is the perfect solution when it comes to getting rid of Eczema, which is known to cause itching and serious skin problems.

The Magic of Coconut Oil on Hair

Coconut oil is also an excellent hair treatment since it can be used as a deep conditioner or shampoo. It is perfect for those with a dry scalp. Using this oil on your hair gives it a shiny, beautiful and healthy look. Usually, only water provides 100% moisture to the hair, but, there are certain oils such as coconut oil that have the ability to penetrate the hair and provide it with the right amount of moisture that it requires.

Coconut Oil and the Human Body

When  you are feeling fatigued, coconut oil can really boost your energy. It is a wonderful product for stimulating the metabolism of the body. This can assist with weight loss because of the support that it provides in controlling cravings.

In case of mental fatigue or a headache, coconut oil acts as a wonderful stress reliever. Massaging the oil on your head in a circular kind of motion enhances relaxation. In addition, coconut oil is great for relieving acid reflex and indigestion. The oil can be ingested after taking a meal so as to reduce indigestion.

Those suffering from diabetes can benefit from ingesting coconut oil. This is because it is effective in stabilizing the blood sugar and it assists in controlling serious cravings. Also, the discomfort that many women go through during their menstrual cycle can be eased by ingesting coconut oil.

The information mentioned above indicates some of the uses of coconut oil. With this in mind, it becomes easier to respond to the question of how to use coconut oil. Evidently, there are numerous advantages of coconut oil.

What Is Pure Coconut Oil?

Pure coconut oil is as close to nature’s original form as possible. First, the label should say “extra virgin” or “unrefined.” Like with olive oil, extra virgin or unrefined coconut oil is the oil from the first pressing of the coconut fibers. Cold-pressed is best For extra benefit, you should also look for a brand that is organic.

Avoid any brand that is bleached, deodorized, hydrogenated or refined in any way. So, yes, the product should smell and taste of fresh coconuts! Keep that in mind when using it topically or for cooking.

Which Brands Fits the Bill?

To make things simpler, here are some top brands that consistently receive great buyer ratings and reviews. All of these oils meet the “pure coconut oil” criteria.

• Nutiva Certified Extra Virgin Coconut Oil: This brand is chopped and pressed quickly to help preserve its true coconut taste. For a 15-oz. jar, you’ll pay about $10.

• Nature’s Way EfaGold Organic Coconut Oil: This product meets all the requirements of a pure coconut oil product and also is certified non-GMO. For a 16-oz. jar, the list price is about $14.

• Barlean’s Organic Oils Extra Virgin Coconut Oil: Cold-pressed with true coconut flavor and aroma, this product uses coconuts harvested from the Philippines. Price for a 16-oz. jar: about $14.

• Artisana 100% Organic Raw Coconut Oil Extra Virgin: A certified kosher product, users like this oil for its pearly color and fresh aroma. Runs about $12 to $15 per 16 oz.

• Trader Joe’s Organic Virgin Coconut Oil: Retailing at about $7 to $14 for 16 oz., this oil is cold-pressed, strained, unpasturized and raw-filtered.

• Carrington Farms Coconut Oil: Using coconuts from the Philippines, this product is available through the manufacturer’s web site as well as other retail locations, but your best bet is Costco. For a 54-oz. jar, you’ll pay only $15 to $18.

• Tropical Traditions Gold Label: USDA-certified organic, this popular brand is available exclusively from its manufacturer web site, TropicalTraditions.com, in quantities up to five gallons! For a 32-oz. jar, you’ll pay $25.

Where to Buy Pure Coconut Oil

Most health food stores carry coconut oil, but the quality varies. Be sure to check the labels as well as the expiration date (if any). Some health food stores don’t have high inventory turnover.

High-end grocery stores, such as Whole Foods, usually have an excellent selection that is fresh and high quality. However, a high price tag often goes with it! For a price that is gentler on the pocketbook, discount club stores such as Costco (see Carrington Farms brand above) could save your wallet.
If your local selection is too pricey or less than stellar, good coconut oil may be only as far away as your computer keyboard. A great idea is to use Google Shopping — www.google.com/products — to compare prices of online and local retailers. Amazon has a huge selection, but other retailers such as Vitacost.com or Vitaminshoppe.com may have just what you need.

But no longer! Science is proving what traditional cultures have known for a long time — the benefits of coconut oil are many. Thanks to the increasing availability of high-quality coconut oil, everyone in the world can enjoy this gift of nature as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Benefits of Coconut Oil: A Guide for Beginners

Not sure where to begin? Health food stores and high-end grocery stores are good places to begin, but even major supermarket chains are beginning to carry pure extra virgin coconut oil. Major Internet retailers such as Amazon also carry high-quality oil.

To get the best health benefits, the coconut oil should be as close to the way nature made it as possible. Pure organic coconut oil is best. “Extra virgin” means that the oil has gone through minimal processing and retains the qualities that make it so wonderful for health. High-quality coconut oil may appear expensive; however, a little goes a long way.

Skin Care Multi-tasking

There’s  a  reason coconut oil makes its way into thousands of skincare and cosmetic products. It’s a superior lubricant, moisturizer and protector. Just use the oil straight out of the jar as a:

• Hair conditioner and de-frizzing agent
• Face and body moisturizer
• Lip balm
• Cuticle treatment
• Foot balm
• Toothpaste (Yes! Combine it with baking soda.)
• Bath oil (The oil melts at 76 degrees F.)
• Makeup remover
• Massage oil (Gently heat to melt.)

Ounce for ounce, coconut oil could be one of the cheapest and most versatile skincare products around. Its natural antioxidants — essential to combat aging — are an extra benefit as well!

Antioxidant Magic

The antioxidants that help skin glow also help the body from the inside. Regular use helps prevent a myriad of conditions and diseases such as premature aging, cognitive deterioration, skin damage due to sun exposure … and even cancer.

Easy Treatment for Skin Conditions

Coconut oil is antimicrobial. Instead of reaching for a commercial product for conditions such as athlete’s foot, ringworm or diaper rash, coconut oil applied liberally can heal and soothe the skin.

All-in-one Infection Fighter

The oil can kill microbes inside the body as well as on the skin. Use a few teaspoons daily to help rid the body of microbes that contribute to Candida and throat infections, among other conditions. There is even evidence that coconut oil can expel parasites and other microorganisms.

Weight Loss and Heart Health

Using coconut oil in cooking as well as taking a few teaspoons straight per day can actually improve heart health. One study also showed that daily coconut oil intake reduces belly fat — a particularly stubborn fat to lose that is an indicator of future heart problems and diabetes.

This is just the short list of coconut oil’s numerous benefits. Pure, natural coconut oil may just be magic in a jar for many daily health needs.