C is for Coconut
It has taken long to finish this post on coconut oil, not for lack of motivation, but because completing the research led me down a rabbit hole. Coconut is an amazing fruit and very versatile. The only limit to what you can use this fruit for is your imagination.
Coconut History & Benefits
The coconut is the fruit of the palm Cocos nucifera and you can find it all over the world. Humans have long enjoyed this fruit for many years. Although there are many types found in many parts of the world now, one thing is certain is that it originated from the tropics especially where there is sandy soil.
In additional to natural cosmetics, the entire coconut tree and fruit is extremely versatile including non-consumption products like roofing (leaves), charcoal(husks), eating utensils (shell), create art or cleaning tools (husk)
How Coconut Oil is Made
Virgin coconut oil is made in a way that protects all the natural goodness of this fruit. It is made without any chemical additives or high heat. In one method, the meat of a mature coconut is extracted and dried without using high heat. For instance, the sun or smoke drying and then the dried meat is pressed to extract the oil. In another method also known as the wet milling process, the fresh coconut meat is extracted and pressed and then the extracted milky substance is then processed to get the oil.
Main Uses of Coconut
Skin & Hair
Coconut oil is rich in antioxidants and antibacterial (monolaurian) properties, which makes it a useful carrier oil.It is a great natural moisturizer, especially for dry skin. You can find coconut oil in many hair care products because it supports shiny, healthy hair and prevents protein loss especially in damaged hair.
Nutrition
Coconut milk (grated coconut and water) is frequently used in Asian dishes particularly curries and soups. The meat of the interior of the coconut has less sugar than oranges and a great addition to smoothies or other drink mixes. Coconut oil is easy to digest and also studies show that it boosts metabolism.
Health
Its high mineral content is a greatrefresher after intense workouts. Coconut oil contains high levels of saturatedfats which boost the good cholesterol (HDL).
Easy Facial Cleanse DIY Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ Tablespoon Honey
- ½ Lemon
- ½ Tablespoon Virgin Coconut Oil
- 1 Tablespoon used coffee grounds
Process
- Mix togetherhoney, coconut oil, lemon juice and used coffee grounds in a small bowl
- Using yourfinger to spread the mixture evenly on your face in a circular slow scrubbingmotion for 2-3mins.
- Let it sitfor 5 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
- Follow with your favorite face moisturizer.
This recipe gently exfoliates while nourishing your face and is really easy to make. You can make a larger batch and keep it in the fridge to preserve it. Since all the ingredients are fresh, I recommend that you use it within 1-2 weeks and you will get the most benefit from all these yummy ingredients.
