Coconut oil…So what’s all the hype about anyways? Read below to get the scoop on coconut oil as well as some uses for it.
But first, to refine or not to refine?
That is the question. And completely up to your own preference. But if you are a health nut like me, you might want to go with the unrefined aka ‘virgin’ or ‘extra virgin’ coconut oil. What’s the difference you may ask? Typically, virgin and extra-virgin coconut oils are made from fresh and raw coconuts that are pressed without the use of chemicals. Refined coconut oil has been processed and is typically tasteless and odorless. Hence if you want that coconutty smell, unrefined is the way to go.
Cooking
Coconut oil is great in the kitchen. Many oils (even the healthy ones) tend to break down and release harmful toxins when they are heated beyond their “smoke-point.” Coconut oil fares better at higher temperatures making it one of the healthier alternatives to other cooking oils. I’ve heard that the secret to this is to warm up the oil slowly, not letting it bubble. When oil bubbles that is usually when it starts breaking down and releasing the harmful stuff.
If you are going to use the unrefined coconut oil for cooking note that your food will have a hint of coconut flavour in it. It is a bit of an acquired taste on eggs for example, but it’s a trade off I am personally willing to make in order to get the raw benefits of the coconut. If you prefer a tasteless/odorless option then opt for the refined.
Ok, so besides cooking, what else can you do with it?
Hair Mask
For a deep conditioning, scoop out some oil and rub it in between your hands, you’d be surprised at how quickly the solid coconut oil melts. Once the oil has melted apply it to the hair and scalp. Make sure to work the oil throughout your locks paying extra attention to the ends which usually require a little more moisture action. No need to overdo it, just enough to coat the hair. You can tie your hair back or braid it, leaving the oil in for about 20-30 mins. After that wash or rinse it out. (This will vary based on your own hair texture). Afterwards your hair will have a nice shine to it and feel silky smooth.
Hand + Body Moisturizer
Coconut oil contains fatty acids (triglycerides) which help the skin retain moisture by preventing moisture loss through the pores. Think of it as a healthy and natural antibacterial coating of moisture. As opposed to (non-natural) body lotions which are made from mineral oil or petroleum. Which also coat the skin but with an impenetrable coating that does not allow the skin to breathe.
For very dry skin you could probably get away with moisturizing with the coconut oil directly. However, if you find that too greasy just mix half and half with an unscented body lotion which can be purchased from your local health food store. The 1/2 to 1/2 ratio can be tweaked depending on just how much moisturizer you actually need.
For nails and cuticles, apply the coconut oil directly and massage into your nails.
Lips
Apply directly to the lips as required. I like to scoop some out of the jar and keep it in an old lip gloss container for ease of use.
Make Up Remover
If it’s in a solid state, liquify first (which I do by rubbing between my palms) then apply to a cotton pad and wipe away! I have heard that this will also remove waterproof mascara however I have yet to try this one.
Massage Oil
Self explanatory. When you’re done you will not only feel soft and smooth but you’ll also smell yummy like you just stepped off a tropical beach somewhere.
Tips
Unrefined = least processed (as close to natural as you can get)
Storage: Store coconut oil at room temperature, no refrigeration required! In fact, if refrigerated the oil will solidify and become quite difficult to work with. I keep mine in the pantry all year round. Although in the summer it tends to be more liquid like (like you would expect an oil). In the winter it’s in a halfway liquid-solid state (think Nutella) at which point I scoop it out with a butter knife. In the summer the oil will liquefy and separate, if that happens just be sure to mix it prior to use.
Coconut Oil Popcorn Recipe
Next time you’re making popcorn, try this to spice things up a bit. Instead of butter or cooking oil, pop the kernels using coconut oil. We have a popcorn maker at home so we’ll melt our coconut oil on the side and then drizzle over the freshly popped kernels. Sprinkle with cayenne pepper and paprika (to your liking), and that’s it. Just be careful with the cayenne pepper, a little bit goes a long way.
That’s all that I’ve used my coconut oil for…so far. Let me know how it goes or if you know of other uses for it.
Happy Wellness Wednesday!