It seems like scientists and dietitians are coming up with a new "superfood" every week. From broccoli to kale to quinoa, it seems almost impossible to keep up with what food in our pantry is truly the best one we could put into our bodies. But coconut oil has proven itself to be worthy of the hype, and you don't even have to eat it to reap the benefits.
Lots of good things can come from coconuts. It's delicious in recipes when it's shredded, and it can even be used to make easy and delicious lactose-free ice cream! But even if you aren't a fan of the taste of this tropical fruit, you should still consume its oil. It's loaded with healthy fats that can help you maintain your weight and keep your heart healthy, and unlike other oils, it's safe to cook with even at higher temperatures. You can even use it along with some other common ingredients in your pantry to make this DIY cellulite scrub! Basically, if you don't have coconut oil in your home, you're really missing out.
Even though many of us have already been informed about the health benefits of this special oil, you might be surprised to know that it has many other potential uses beyond cooking. Check out these handy ways to use coconut oil— you'll be surprised to find out just how much you can replace with it!
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1. As Lip Balm
Coconut oil has incredible moisturizing powers, and you only need a little bit to keep chapped lips away during even the driest winter months.
2. As Makeup Remover
Instead of using that pricey makeup remover you get off the shelves at the drug store, use coconut oil instead. It works just as well as (if not better than) the synthetic kind, and as a bonus, it leaves your skin, eyelashes, and eyebrows super soft.
3. As A Scrub
The combination of coconut oil and brown sugar or sea salt makes an easy DIY scrub for your lips, face, or the rest of your body. Add more of less of the coarse ingredient of your choosing depending on how you like your scrub, and make sure to be gentle when applying it so you don't do any damage to your skin.
4. As Hair Conditioner
Coconut oil is a fantastic substance to get your hair shiny, healthy, and tangle-free. Use it as a mask on the lower portion of your hair (not the roots), and leave it in for about ten minutes before you wash your hair. After you wash it out, you'll notice a big difference in the health of your locks.
5. As Moisturizer
By now, you've probably figured out that this oil is perfect for restoring lost moisture to just about every part of your body. You can use it after showering or before you go to bed to make your skin feel silky smooth all day long. Just make sure not to overdo it unless you want to feel particularly greasy.
6. As A Bath Oil
If you like adding essential oils to your bath, consider adding a bit of coconut oil, too. After you get done soaking, your skin will feel hydrated and baby-soft!
7. As A Smoothie Power-Up
Smoothies are a great way to get a lot of nutrients in a single glass, but to absorb the maximum amount of vitamins, you need to consume a little bit of fat, too. Include just a teaspoon or so of coconut oil to add some healthy fat to your morning smoothie and get your day started off right.
8. As A Butter Substitute In Recipes
Swapping out butter for coconut oil using a 1:1 weight ratio is a great way to make your favorite recipes vegan. It also helps eliminate cholesterol and gives your baked goods more health benefits than butter.
9. As A Throat Lozenge
If your throat is bothering you, down a little bit of coconut oil, tea, and honey to soothe it. This is my go-to relief method every time I get a cough!
10. As A Cuticle Softener
If your nails are dry and brittle, don't worry— coconut oil can fix that, too. Take a little bit and massage it into your nails and cuticles right before you go to bed. When you wake up, your nails will be manicure-ready!
11. As A Substitute For Butter On Toast
Just as you can use coconut oil instead of butter in recipes, you can also use it on your morning toast, bagels, or pancakes instead of butter. It has a lighter, almost sweet taste, and many people have found that it gives them more energy in comparison to their higher-cholesterol counterpart.
12. As Shaving Cream
I started using coconut oil to shave a few years ago, and I've never looked back. It does a fantastic job of softening your skin and body hair, and your razor will glide on your skin like never before. It's even better if you have sensitive skin, because it significantly reduces razor burn after all the work is done.
13. As Diaper Rash Cream
Your little ones can benefit from the powers of coconut oil, too. Apply it to their diaper rash to help them heal faster and reduce pain.
14. As An Energizer
Many people swear by putting a dollop of coconut oil in their coffee every morning to supercharge it, but you can get a mid-day energy boost by taking a spoonful of the oil between meals even if you don't like caffeine.
15. As Bug Spray
Not a fan of being covered with synthetic chemicals on a muggy summer night? Try this more natural alternative instead: Mix half a cup of coconut oil with ten drops of tea tree oil, then put it in a spray bottle and shake it up. When the mosquitoes start buzzing, spray the mixture all over yourself for a solution that will keep the bugs away while still being great for your skin and the environment.
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