10 healthy ways to use coconut oil

We’ve all heard of the health benefits of coconut oil, but do you know all the ways you can use it? This healthy, unrefined (or virgin) oil can be used for so much more than your sauté pan. Here are 10 healthy ways to use coconut oil.

1. Cooking

Not only is coconut oil suitable for sautéing, it’s also a great substitute for butter in baking or on toast.

2. Coffee

Drinking a coffee spiked with coconut oil, called bulletproof coffee, is a great way to fuel your morning workout.

3. Moisturizing

Whether you’re looking for a post-shower full-body moisturizer, an intense facial night cream or a dab of moisture for chapped lips, organic coconut oil is a great option that will quickly sink into your skin. And its antioxidant and antibacterial properties carry extra skin benefits.

4. Stretch Marks

Pregnant women have found that rubbing the oil on their growing bellies can help prevent the development of stretch marks.

5. Makeup Remover

The oil can break down cosmetics on the eyes and face so makeup wipes away easily, without the need for any harsh chemicals.

6. Hair Mask

Rubbing the oil into your hair, from roots to tips, then leaving it in, deeply conditions strands. Wash it out and dry your hair to find healthier, shinier locks.

7. Teeth Cleaning

While some people have tried making their own toothpaste using coconut oil and baking soda, others swear by oil pulling, a practice of swishing the oil in your mouth to remove plaque and toxins.

8. Massage

Coconut oil serves as a natural massage oil with its own relaxing scent of the tropics. Get your partner to give you a relaxing coconut massage, or rub the oil into your own temples when you’re stressed.

9. Treat Cold Sores

While the moisturizing effect of the oil helps with skin healing, the antibacterial and antiviral properties of this wonder oil can also fight cold sores at the source.

10. Natural Deodorant

It might not be quite as effective as the stuff you buy at the grocery store, but coconut oil’s antibacterial qualities can defend against the bacteria that causes odors—no chemicals necessary.