29 Clever Uses for Coconut Oil

1. Boosts metabolism

Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are fatty acids that are easily absorbed and do not need to be broken down by the body for energy. 

MCTs may be able to temporarily boost your energy and metabolic rate, which can increase the number of calories you burn.

2. Improves brain function

MCTs in coconut oil are turned into ketones in the body, which your brain can use for energy. Studies have suggested that MCTs may benefit people with brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s.

3. Balances hormones

Coconut oil is rich in healthy fats that support your thyroid by raising the basal temperature and converting cholesterol into pregnenolone, one of the key building blocks of thyroid hormones. Coconut oil also has anti-inflammatory properties that can lower cortisol levels.

4. Relieves constipation

Because coconut oil can help speed up metabolism, it is also thought to improve digestion and relieve constipation.

5. Lowers inflammation

Coconut oil contains antioxidants, which can help lower inflammation in the body and therefore ease symptoms of arthritis and other diseases caused by inflammation.

6. Soothes sunburns

The topical application of coconut oil may provide sunburn relief by moisturizing the skin and minimizing itching and peeling. If you are using it on your skin, make sure to use organic, cold-pressed coconut oil.

7. Treats eczema

Coconut oil may also help improve symptoms of eczema and other skin disorders due to its moisturizing properties. Talk to your doctor before using coconut oil on your skin, however, because it can interact with medications.

8. Relieves itchy bug bites

Coconut oil can soothe insect stings and bites. To ease the discomfort, apply a small amount of coconut oil directly to the bite. 

You can even mix it with peppermint oil to create a natural bug repellent that is gentle enough for use on children and those with sensitive skin.

9. Natural vapor rub

To open up your airways and make breathing easier, mix coconut and eucalyptus oil together and apply the mixture to the chest. This can help boost circulation and reduce congestion, promoting better sleep.

10. Dairy-free coffee creamer

If you like to add creamer to your coffee in the morning, coconut oil is a rich, dairy-free, sugar-free alternative.

11. Natural mouthwash

Coconut oil has natural antibacterial properties that help kill bacteria in the mouth that cause tooth decay and reduce inflammation caused by gingivitis. Mix coconut oil with peppermint oil and baking soda and use as a mouthwash to freshen breath, boost gum health, and whiten teeth.

12. Heals wounds

Coconut oil can promote faster wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Studies have also shown that coconut oil may promote collagen production, which can help wounds heal faster.

13. Antifungal cream

Coconut oil can be applied topically to cure athlete’s foot and other fungal infections. 

14. Treats cold sores

Lauric acid, a compound in coconut oil, has the potential to enter the cold sore virus and prevent cells from reproducing. As a result, applying coconut oil to a cold sore can help it go away faster and reduce scarring or discoloration.

15. Soothes chapped lips

Commercial lip balms often contain unhealthy and potentially toxic ingredients. Coconut oil, on the other hand, can have natural healing properties while also offering a small amount of sun protection. You can make your own coconut lip balm by melting the oil with beeswax and shea butter, then allowing the mixture to cool and set.

16. Minimizes stretch marks

Coconut oil is moisturizing and helps keep skin supple by promoting collagen production. This means it may be helpful in minimizing the appearance of stretch marks.

17. Helps cracked heels

Massaging coconut oil into cracked heels can relieve dryness and heal open sores. Feel free to add other essential oils such as lavender oil to further reduce germs and dryness.

18. Speeds up tattoo healing

Coconut oil is great for new tattoos because it is moisturizing and antimicrobial, preventing scabs from drying out and flaking off. 

19. Removes makeup

Coconut oil is gentle on the skin and makes an effective makeup remover. It can be applied over the face to remove makeup, followed by a face wash to remove traces of the oil.

20. Exfoliating body scrub

You can make a DIY body scrub using coconut, essential oils, and sugar. Less expensive than most body scrubs, this mixture is nourishing and gentle on the skin.

21. Epsom salt bath

When you feel sore or have achy muscles, relax in a warm bath of Epsom salts and coconut oil. The Epsom salts help remove toxins from the body, while the coconut oil soothes dry skin. You can add your favorite essential oils for some aromatherapy benefits.

22. Natural hair conditioner

Coconut oil can strengthen hair and reduce frizz. Use 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil as a conditioner depending on the length and thickness of your hair. Work the oil into the hair by warming it in your fingers and working your way up from the ends.

23. Prevents and treats dandruff

Coconut oil has antifungal properties that can help combat dandruff. It also nourishes the scalp, which reduces dryness and flaking.

24. Prevents ingrown hairs

Coconut oil can be applied to shaved areas to prevent ingrown hairs. The oil helps kill bacteria and softens the skin so that the risk of irritation and infection is reduced.

25. Nail cuticle oil

Applying coconut oil to your nail beds can help your nails grow better. It also protects you from bacteria when getting a manicure at a nail salon.

26. Cures cradle cap

Cradle cap is common among newborns and is a condition that causes crusty or scaly patches on the scalp. Coconut oil can be used to gently moisturize the baby’s scalp.

27. Diaper rash guard

Coconut oil can help reduce diaper rash symptoms such as swelling, redness, itchiness, and burning.

28. Natural deodorant

The antibacterial properties of coconut oil make it an excellent natural deodorant. 

29. Stain remover

Coconut oil can help get rid of stains. Simply mix equal parts coconut oil and baking soda, apply to a stain for a few minutes, then wipe away.