Coconut oil
Other names for coconut oil
100% cold-pressed, organic, extra virgin coconut oil
100% expeller pressed, organic, extra virgin coconut oil
100% organic, expeller-pressed, extra virgin coconut oil
100% organic virgin coconut oil
100% unrefined organic extra-virgin coconut oil
certified organic coconut oil
certified organic mct coconut fruit oil
coconut (cocos nucifera) oil
coconut (cocos nucifera) oil powder
coconut fruit oil
coconut kernel oil
coconut mct
coconut mct oil
coconut {oil}
coconut oil
coconut oil blend
coconut oil complex
coconut oil, extra virgin
coconut oil, fractionated
coconut oil, hydrogenated
coconut oil, liquid
coconut oil mct
coconut oil, modified
coconut oil, natural
coconut oil organic
coconut oil powder
coconut oil, powder
coconut oil, purified
coconut oil, refined
coconut oils
coconut oil solids
coconut oil triglycerides
coconut oil, virgin
coconut palm oil
coconut seed oil
cold-pressed virgin coconut oil
dried coconut oil complex
extra virgin coconut oil
extra virgin, coconut oil
extra virgin organic coconut oil
fractionated coconut (cocus nucifera) oil
fractionated coconut oil
fractionated (non-hydrogenated) coconut oil
fractionated [non-hydrogenated] coconut oil
fractioned coconut oil
from coconut oil
garden of life(r) organic extra virgin coconut oil
high-mct coconut oil
hi-mct coconut (cocos nucifera) oil
liquid coconut mct oil
liquid coconut oil
mct coconut oil
mct fractionated coconut oil
non-gmo coconut
non-gmo liquid coconut oil
organic coconut
organic coconut mct
organic coconut mct oil
organic coconut oil
organic coconut oil mct
organic coconut oil powder
organic cold press extra virgin unrefined coconut oil
organic extract virgin coconut oil
organic extra virgin coconut oil
organic raw extra virgin unrefined coconut oil
organic, unrefined, cold-pressed, extra virgin coconut oil
organic virgin coconut oil
pure, organic coconut oil
purified coconut oil
refined coconut oil
virgin coconut (cocus nucifera) oil
virgin coconut oil
Hydrogenated Coconut Oil
Synopsis of coconut oil
History
Coconut oil has a rich history of medicinal use spanning centuries, particularly in tropical regions such as Southeast Asia, India, and the Pacific Islands. Traditionally, it has been revered for its remarkable healing properties, serving as a natural remedy for a wide variety of ailments. In Ayurvedic and folk medicine, coconut oil was commonly applied to wounds and burns to promote healing and prevent infection, thanks to its natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory qualities. It was also massaged onto the scalp to nourish hair, reduce dandruff, and support overall scalp health.
Internally, coconut oil was consumed to boost energy, improve digestion, and support immune function. Its unique composition of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), particularly lauric acid, has been credited with enhancing metabolic health and providing quick, sustained energy. In many cultures, coconut oil was used as a soothing remedy for sore throats, coughs, and digestive discomfort.
In herbal medicine, coconut oil has often been combined with other botanicals to amplify their therapeutic effects. For example, it is a common carrier oil for herbal infusions, helping to extract and deliver the active constituents of medicinal herbs like turmeric, neem, and holy basil. These combinations have been used for topical applications, such as soothing skin rashes, joint pain, and fungal infections. The oil’s ability to penetrate the skin makes it an excellent base for herbal salves, ointments, and balms.
Overall, coconut oil’s versatility and natural healing qualities have made it a cherished ingredient in traditional remedies and herbal preparations, contributing significantly to holistic wellness practices across the globe.
Traditional and scientific validation
Coconut oil has a long history of use, especially in tropical regions, as both a food and a traditional remedy. Derived from the meat of mature coconuts, it is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), particularly lauric acid, which is thought to offer unique health benefits. Historically, populations such as those in the South Pacific have consumed coconut oil as a dietary staple for generations, often reporting general good health and low rates of cardiovascular disease. However, these observational findings are influenced by overall lifestyle and dietary patterns.
Scientific interest in coconut oil has grown in recent years, particularly regarding its potential effects on cholesterol and weight management. Some clinical studies have suggested that coconut oil may raise levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol and may have a more neutral effect on LDL ("bad") cholesterol compared to some other saturated fats. Additionally, the MCTs in coconut oil are metabolized differently than long-chain fatty acids, potentially supporting energy metabolism and feelings of satiety. Small-scale studies have explored these possible benefits, but results have been mixed and larger, long-term trials are still needed to confirm these effects.
While coconut oil is not a cure-all, its unique fatty acid profile and traditional use have made it a popular choice in nutritional products. Scientific research is ongoing, and while the evidence is not yet conclusive, coconut oil can be a valuable part of a balanced diet when used in moderation.
Coconut oil is used for these health conditions
Antibiotics (alternatives to) (Scientific)
Athlete's Foot (Scientific)
Backache (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Traditional)
Cuts (Scientific)
Dandruff (Scientific)
Dermatitis (Scientific)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Energy (lack of) (Scientific)
Fat Metabolism (poor) (Scientific)
Fungal Infections (Scientific)
Gas and Bloating (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Gingivitis (Scientific)
Hair (loss or thinning) (Traditional)
Hemorrhoids (Traditional)
Herpes (Traditional)
Infection (Scientific)
Infection (bacterial) (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Influenza (Traditional)
Itching (Scientific)
coconut oil is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Traditional)
Skin (Scientific)
