Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid most abundant in coconut oil, has been studied for its antimicrobial properties, which are considered relevant to mastitis—a condition characterized by inflammation of breast tissue, often due to bacterial infection (commonly Staphylococcus aureus). Several in vitro studies have demonstrated that lauric acid exhibits bactericidal activity against gram-positive bacteria, including those implicated in mastitis. Research in dairy science has shown that supplementing cow feed with lauric acid or coconut oil can reduce somatic cell counts and bacterial load in milk, suggesting a potential for reducing mastitis incidence in livestock.

In terms of human health, there is less direct clinical evidence, but the antimicrobial effect of lauric acid has prompted interest in its use as a complementary approach to mastitis management, especially among breastfeeding women seeking alternatives to antibiotics. Some reviews and pilot studies suggest that topical or dietary lauric acid may help reduce bacterial load, though robust randomized clinical trials in humans are lacking.

Overall, the use of lauric acid for mastitis is supported by promising laboratory and animal data, but human clinical evidence is limited. Thus, it currently merits a moderate evidence rating, mainly based on mechanistic and preclinical findings rather than definitive human trials.

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