Did you know that you are pretty nuts - no, not like your crazy neighbor that stares at you when you take out the trash cans. You are a lover of that healthy and nutritious snack.
We received a question from Colleen. She says “I really need to get more educated on this stuff. First, I hope you do a podcast on how to use coconut oil. I really have no idea how and why I should be using it.”
Colleen, we’ve got you covered! Go and check out the phoodcast episode #18. We had a nutty good time breaking down answers to your question.
Coconut oil is derived from the meat of the coconut. It’s not really a nut – it’s a stone fruit, but can also be classified as a tree nut. Most people with nut allergies are fine with coconut, but if you have any nut or fruit allergies, test for coconut also.
Coconut oil is amazing for its health benefits. It is chock full of medium chain fatty acids – meaning, it can help increase your good cholesterol. It has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Oh yeah, and its delicious. I know that some people are averse to the tropical taste and smell of coconut oil, but we have ways of damping that down while still enjoying its beneficial properties.
We get our organic coconut oil from Costco in a big tub. Its usually solid at room temperature and will melt when heated. I then leave a jar of it on the counter for daily use. Hubby usually heats up a small bowl of it and keeps it in its liquid state for pouring on the dog’s food.
Its great for cooking, because you can heat it safely to high temps without it releasing toxic fumes & free radicals like other oils with a lower smoke point. No Bueno. You can stir fry veggies and meat safely in coconut oil. You can toss your veggies in the oil and then roast them in the oven. To combat the “I’m in Hawaii on vacation taste,” I use LOTS of spices and herbs. I will also use a combo of coconut oil and butter when cooking – cuz who doesn’t like food cooked in butter!
Coconut oil is amazing for personal care products as well! Have you seen those commercials for Frank’s Hot Sauce? I put coconut oil on everything! A great aspect of CO is that you can get it “fractionated” Which basically means that it stays in its liquid form since it was steam distilled. This stuff has a super long shelf life which makes it perfect for DIY beauty serums and lotions. Grab a small dark colored jar with a dropper top and add a few drops of essential oils that are beneficial for skin, like Frank, Copaiba, Melrose, Lavender and Patchouli. Top with fractionated CO and shake. Easy Peasy!
I use a dollop of coconut oil every night to remove my makeup and moisturize my skin. You may have heard of oil cleansing. Its awesome at removing even waterproof eye makeup and lipstick. I rub it all over my face and eyes and then use a wet washcloth to remove the grubby make up and I’m ready for bed. You can mix CO with sugar for a body scrub – add some essential oils too for a spa experience.
Some people may breakout when using CO so try it out a little at a time and not right before your high school reunion or your best friend’s wedding. If you do have sensitive skin, try jojoba oil, sweet almond oil or even EVOO in your DIY concoctions.
I know I said that CO is great for moisturizing skin – its also great for hair, but a little bit goes a long way. CO can be used for vaginal dryness and that’s like being on a beach vacation for sure (don’t use as a lubricant with condoms, though. They are the worst couple ever)!
There are literally a million other ways to use those oils. Get creative! Then, email us and let us know your favorites.