Coconut oil may fight tooth decay
If your family has a history of cavities and tooth decay, you might want to consider adding coconut oil in moderation to your diet. Researchers found that coconut oil that had been treated with enzymes in a process similar to digestion is effective in fighting against strains of Streptococcus bacteria that cause tooth decay.
Coconut oil may fight food bacteria
Many of the foods we buy at the supermarket contain ingredients that are added in order to keep microorganisms from attaching to and even rotting our food. Monolaurin, an extract from coconut oil that is known for its antimicrobial properties, could soon be commonly used as a natural preservative to protect against these microorganisms. Researchers tested it on bacterial strains and found it effective on its own against some strains of bacteria and effective when combined with other antimicrobial agents against other strains of bacteria.
Coconut oil may reduce cholesterol levels
It is thought that coconut oil can help normalize cholesterol levels in two ways. It contains a saturated fat called lauric acid, known to increase the “good cholesterol” in the body. Coconut oil may also help restore normal thyroid function, which is helpful in maintaining those good cholesterol levels.
Coconut oil may help slow Alzheimer’s disease
It is estimated that 14 million Americans will have Alzheimer’s disease by the middle of this century unless a cure or prevention is found, a sharp increase over the approximately 4 million Americans who currently have this degenerative disease. Researchers have speculated that boosting levels of a protein called Apo-A might delay the dementia associated with Alzheimer’s disease. A similar protein known as Apolipoprotein E, has also linked with Alzheimer’s and is being studied by researchers. Some foods, including coconut oil, are known to stimulate cells to make more Apo-A. So if you have a family history of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, you may want to consider adding coconut oil in moderation to your diet.
Coconut oil may help heal wounds
It has long been thought that coconut, particularly virgin coconut oil, has healing properties with the ability to be an anti-inflammatory and analgesic. One study from India found that virgin coconut oil can be effective against chronic inflammation, while another out of Thailand found that coconut can be helpful in healing burn wounds.
Coconut milk may help heal ulcers
Know anyone who suffers from stomach ulcers? Ulcers can be particularly painful, especially for people who get them repeatedly. Coconut milk may help. A study done on mice found that coconut milk reduced ulcer size by 56% and was more effective than coconut water.
Coconut may deter head lice
Parents, rejoice! When combined with anise to make a spray, coconut is effective in reducing head lice. This may be a worthy remedy particularly for those seeking a natural alternative to head lice products made with harmful chemicals. It certainly will smell better! Who knows, it may even be a worthy deterrent. And please accept our apologies if we are making you itchy
