The coconut tree belongs to the palm tree family (Arecaceae), which is botanically a drupe, not a nut. Coconut oil is an edible oil produced from the kernel of mature coconuts and it has gained immense popularity in the recent years for its innumerable health benefits.

Almost over thousands of studies have proven, coconut oil to be one of the healthiest foods. The many uses and healing benefits of coconut oil go beyond people’s expectation, coconut is indeed a true superfood.

The coconut tree is claimed as the ‘lifeline of health’ due to its versatile benefits and uses. However, choosing the right type of oil from the different types available coconut oil brands can be a bit challenging.

Nutritional facts of virgin coconut oil 

 Virgin oil rich in various essential nutrients that help our body to grow healthy. Nutrients present in virgin coconut oil are as follows – 

• Vitamin C and vitamin E
• Fatty acids – Lauric Acid or Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), myristic acid, etc.
• Antioxidants 
• Proteins 

Health benefits of virgin coconut oil 

1: Moisture the hair and scalp 

Coconut oil is the best oil for all types of hair. This oil helps your hair and scalp regain the moisture that it often loses in the dry and cold seasons. For best results, warm the coconut oil before use and massage your scalp gently. 

2: Prevent split ends and hair fall 

Virgin coconut oil help to protect your hair throughout. Your hair damages so badly when you use different hair products or ironing. The oil offers protection against all this by forming a protective layer when it coats the hair upon application.

3: Prevent dandruff and graying of hair

There are various reasons for dandruff and hair graying, such as environmental changes, stress, hormonal changes, and infections. Virgin coconut oil can help fight dandruff off as it contains fatty acids, along with Vitamins E and K. 

Massaging the hair with a nutrient-rich oil such as virgin coconut oil can help with graying of hair. Regular use of this oil can result in your hair becoming much more glossy, bouncy, and healthy-looking.

4: Repair your skin

Coconut oil works amazingly for all types of skin. It is versatile that has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Virgin coconut oil is a nourishing oil as it is nutrient-rich and offers proper moisture to the skin. It creates a barrier over your skin and does not let the water escape, thus providing prolonged hydration and moisture to your skin. 

It also has many fatty acids that penetrate your skin and repairs your skin. Topical application of oil can improve your skin barrier function and offer UV protection.

5: Help to soothe your skin 

Coconut oil beneficial for various skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis. Many of this skin condition leads to dry and itchy skin. This virgin oil has soothing, anti-bacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce your complaints instantly. Coconut oil also incredibly heals burns and scalds. 

6: May help in weight loss 

Virgin coconut oil is becoming a famous oil option for weight loss. It helps to burn fat, especially in the abdominal region. It reduces appetite because of the presence of fatty acids in it. It will convert into energy, and ultimately the body does not end up storing fat. 

7: Good for fungal infections 

Coconut oil has antifungal properties that help treat yeast infection or candidiasis. It contains Lauric acid and monolaurin that alter the microbial cell walls. 

8: Reduce cholesterol level

The high amount of Lauric acid in extra virgin coconut oil helps the heart by reducing total cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol. Coconut oil naturally contains saturated fats that increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels in your body. 

Disclaimer: The information included at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a health care professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

@healthqueries.in