Monolaurin (Glyceryl Monolaurate)
Synopsis of monolaurin
Monolaurin is a monoglyceride derived from lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid most abundantly found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. Chemically known as glycerol monolaurate, it is created when lauric acid is combined with glycerol. Monolaurin has gained attention for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, capable of disrupting the lipid membranes of many viruses, bacteria, yeast, and fungi without harming beneficial human cells. Unlike lauric acid alone, monolaurin is more biologically active and better absorbed, making it a potent agent in both immune support and pathogen control.
In natural medicine, monolaurin is primarily used as a supplement to support the immune system and assist the body in defending against infections. It is often recommended for chronic viral conditions such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), and even as an adjunct in candida overgrowth and bacterial imbalances. It is not only antimicrobial but also anti-inflammatory, with evidence suggesting that it can help reduce cytokine expression in response to infection. Because it does not contribute to antibiotic resistance, monolaurin is sometimes preferred as a natural alternative to antibiotics in integrative protocols.
Historical Use:
While monolaurin itself was not known to ancient or traditional medical systems, its precursor lauric acid—via coconut—has a long history of use in traditional healing, especially in Ayurvedic and Polynesian medicine. Coconut oil was used topically for wounds, infections, and skin disorders and consumed to support digestion, energy, and immunity. These traditional uses indirectly harnessed the benefits of lauric acid and, to a lesser extent, the monolaurin naturally produced during digestion.
Scientific exploration of monolaurin began in the mid-20th century. Researchers discovered its potent antimicrobial activity and began testing it in food preservation and pharmaceutical applications. It demonstrated effectiveness against Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Clostridium difficile. It also showed virucidal properties, making it of interest for immune-targeted therapies.
By the 1990s and early 2000s, monolaurin began appearing in immune support supplements, particularly in holistic and integrative medicine circles. Practitioners valued its ability to weaken microbial biofilms, disrupt viral envelopes, and support immune response without the harsh side effects associated with conventional antibiotics or antifungals.
Today, monolaurin is widely used as a supplement in capsule or pellet form. Though not a classical herbal remedy, it is an example of how traditional dietary ingredients like coconut have informed modern functional medicine—bridging ancestral use with targeted molecular therapeutics.
Monolaurin is used for these health conditions
Acne (Scientific)
Antibiotics (alternatives to) (Scientific)
Athlete's Foot (Scientific)
Cold Sores (Scientific)
Colds (antiviral) (Scientific)
Contagious Diseases (Scientific)
Epstein Barr Virus (Scientific)
Fungal Infections (Scientific)
Gingivitis (Scientific)
Herpes (Scientific)
Infection (Scientific)
Infection (bacterial) (Scientific)
Infection (viral) (Scientific)
Influenza (Scientific)
Mastitis (Scientific)
Skin (infections) (Scientific)
Staph Infections (Scientific)
monolaurin is used to support these body systems
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
