Frequently Asked Questions About Organic Coconut Oil
1. What is organic coconut oil good for?
Rich in vitamins and healthy fats, organic coconut oil has a host of health benefits:
- Prevents and mitigates health conditions: Organic coconut oil can lower the risk of certain health conditions such as type II diabetes. This is because it reduces obesity and protects the body against insulin resistance, which are both factors that contribute to diabetes. Coconut oil also raises the amount of HDL cholesterol in the body, which helps remove other bad cholesterol from your bloodstream to prevent cholesterol buildup in the blood vessels. This consequently reduces individuals’ risk of suffering from heart conditions and high blood pressure. In the case of patients with Alzheimer’s disease, organic coconut oil can help mitigate the condition. Alzheimer’s disease hampers the brain’s ability to use glucose, affecting brain functions closely related to the efficient usage of this energy source. However, coconut oil promotes the production of ketones, an alternative energy source for the brain cells, thereby moderating the damage caused by the disease.
- Weight loss: Organic coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) that increase satiety. Additionally, MCTs can be metabolised and utilised by the body quickly to boost body metabolism. This ability to curb the intake of calories while simultaneously encouraging the body to burn more calories makes organic coconut oil helpful for weight loss.
- Skin and hair benefits: Organic coconut oil has strong antibacterial properties that hamper the growth of microorganisms, making it beneficial for specific skin conditions such as fungal infections. When coconut oil is applied topically, the lauric acid content can also deeply moisturise the body and restore the lustre in dry hair.
2. What is the difference between pure coconut oil and virgin coconut oil?
Both organic virgin coconut oil and organic pure coconut oil are fully unprocessed and unadulterated forms of organic coconut oil that preserve all the benefits of the coconut. However, while pure coconut oil is extracted without heat, the method of extracting virgin coconut oil may or may not involve heat. Thus, all pure coconut oils are virgin oils, but not all virgin coconut oils are pure.
3. Is it recommended to have coconut oil every day?
Incorporating organic coconut oil into your daily routine can be beneficial, given its plethora of helpful benefits. However, moderation is key. A small amount, such as a teaspoon, can enrich your diet with essential fatty acids and antioxidants. Whether used in cooking, as a topical treatment for skin, or as part of your hair care product, daily use can contribute to overall wellness. Always consult a healthcare professional to tailor its use to your specific needs.
4. Can organic coconut oil help remove dark spots?
While organic coconut oil is celebrated for its moisturising and antibacterial properties, its effectiveness in reducing dark spots is more anecdotal than scientifically proven. Its rich lauric acid content may help in evening out skin tone and improve hydration, which could, in turn, aid in reducing the appearance of dark spots over time. For optimal results, it's advisable to integrate it into your skincare routine alongside other targeted treatments.
5. Can coconut oil remove dark circles?
Organic coconut oil's hydrating properties may assist in minimising the appearance of dark circles under the eyes by moisturising and nourishing the delicate skin in that area. Its natural oils can help to brighten the skin, potentially reducing darkness. However, for persistent dark circles, it's advisable to seek advice from a skincare professional.
6. Who should not use coconut oil on their face?
While organic coconut oil is beneficial for many, individuals with very oily or acne-prone skin should proceed with caution. Due to its occlusive nature, coconut oil can clog pores and exacerbate acne in susceptible individuals. It's always best to conduct a patch test or consult a dermatologist to determine if it's suitable for your skin type.
7. How long should I leave the coconut oil on my face?
For those incorporating organic coconut oil into their facial care routine, a short duration of 15-20 minutes is generally recommended. This allows the skin ample time to absorb the oil without risking pore blockage. For an intensive treatment, it can be left on overnight, particularly for dry skin types. Always ensure you're applying a thin layer and remove any excess oil gently with a soft cloth or rinse with a mild cleanser.