COCONUT OIL IN AYURVEDA

Coconut oil has long since been used in Ayurveda for its healing properties. It has a great cooling effect on the body and has been used in cooking and for hair health for centuries. It pacifies the vata and pitta doshas and heals the body from within. Using coconut oil while cooking, particularly in the summer months helps soothe the body and mind. Coconuts can be eaten raw, cooked, as milk (extracted from the white core) and, coconut oil. All these are not only delicious but healthy as well. Below are the benefits of incorporating coconut oil in day-to-day life.

Coconut oil helps burn calories.

Coconut oil consists of medium chain triglycerides. These are different from the usual fats which have long chain triglycerides. The fats in coconut oil are metabolized at a much faster rate, making it a great food to curb the appetite. It also satiates hunger for longer, while aiding in burning calories as well. This can help when dealing with problems such as obesity or over eating.

Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties.

Coconut oil contains Lauric acid. This is a potent antimicrobial which kills bacteria, virus and fungi. By ingesting coconut oil, the body is aided in its fight against microbes. The fatty acid promptly clears the system of any harmful microorganisms, while also boosting immunity and better health overall.

Coconut oil helps reduce blood pressure.

Coconut oil is a natural saturated fat. This helps increase the levels of healthy or good cholesterol in the body, and also helps in the conversion of bad cholesterol. It aids in improved metabolic function which in turn reduces blood pressure and strengthens heart health. Coconut oil thereby helps reduce incidence of heart disease as well.

Coconut oil is good for hair and skin.

Coconut oil provides deep hydration and conditioning for hair. This is a time-tested practice which is followed by millions around the world for thick and luxurious locks. It is also great for locking in moisture in skin. For this reason, coconut oil can be used for facial and body massage. It can also be used as an intense overnight moisturizer. The antimicrobial effect of coconut oil helps keep skin diseases at bay, and is a miracle cure for atopic dermatitis.

Coconut oil helps reduce seizures.

The fatty acids found in coconut oil is converted into ketones in the body, which help reduce seizures. This is due to the medium chain triglycerides increasing blood concentration which stimulates production of more ketones. This has been shown to lessen the frequency of seizures in epileptic patients.

Coconut oil helps boost brain function.

Ketone production is great for improving cognitive brain function. Since coconut oil helps with this, it can be used as a brain tonic. In addition to this, memory is also improved with regular intake of coconut oil. This is due to the presence of medium chain triglyceride fats which are easily digested by the body. Since they do not require insulin to be processed, they reach the brain cells much faster and fuel better memory and cognition.

Coconut oil improves energy levels.

The ease of digestion of coconut oil makes it a great food to boost energy. It improves stamina and endurance, allowing the body to sustain itself on the quickly digested fats.

Coconut oil helps maintain oral hygiene.

The Lauric acid found in coconut oil helps remove all impurities from the mouth. Oil pulling with coconut oil has been practiced in Ayurveda for centuries and has been shown to improve both gum and tooth health. The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil also kill all harmful bacteria and reduce halitosis.

Coconut oil reduces inflammation.

Virgin coconut oil is great for reducing inflammation both internally and externally. All organs benefit by consumption of coconut oil and are found to be in better condition with regular intake.

Always consult an ayurvedic doctor for the best ways to incorporate coconut oil into your regimen.