The most obvious use for coconut oil would be in cooking. Coconut oil can be used successfully in just about any recipe that calls for oil or butterfat as an ingredient. Coconut oil has a unique flavor and many feel it can also add a unique texture especially when used in baking. Unlike other oils, it is solid at room temperature and melts to liquid at 76 degrees. Coconut oil also makes an excellent cooking medium when used for sautéing or simmering, and because of its high smoke temperature of 350 degrees, it is a good choice for frying. It’s interesting to note that some oils can get a little rancid over time and this can change their effectiveness, especially when it comes to frying. Whereas, instead of frying up the food to a golden crispness they may actually make it a bit soggy. Because of coconut oils’ high saturated fat content, it is far more shelf stable for longer periods of time.

Taken internally through diet, coconut oil can be expected to increase and improve digestive function. The makeup of medium chain triglycerides are easily assimilated and provide steady energy, while the high sulfur content helps to balance cholesterol. Because of coconut oils unique fatty acid content, it is also highly antimicrobial. This is critical for helping to eliminate and prevent candida, which plays a major role in weight gain. Because of these unique properties, dieter intake of coconut oil can play an important role in weight loss and healthy weight management. In fact, there are several studies listed at the National Center for Biotechnology Information that were conducted either with Human study groups or mice that demonstrate increased weight loss with the intake of coconut oil.

Applied topically, coconut oil makes an excellent skin moisturizer and protector. A small amount goes a long way and it forms a protective layer that can be felt on the skin hours after application without feeling oily. Because of its anti-fungal properties many have reported success with everything from acne to rashes.

Believe it or not, coconut oil has many uses around the house such as treating and conditioning leather and as a wood polish for example. Many of us are familiar with the use of linseed oil made from flax for such things. Coconut oil can also be used as a rust preventer and lubricant for many mechanical applications as well. In fact, the British relied heavily on coconut oil as a lubricant during their industrial revolution. In our armed services in this country there are members of the elite Navy Seals that are known to prefer coconut oil for the lubrication and maintenance of their munitions, in particular their weaponry, citing improved performance, reliability, and salt water rust prevention with no toxicity and harmful fumes when handling and applying.

Written by DMK of Seven Grains