160 Uses for Coconut Oil

Offering a myriad of health benefits, coconut oil is affordable, readily available and completely natural. I use it for EVERYTHING. Literally. I buy it in 5 gallon increments and keep it all over my house. So here is a little information to inspire you to check out this amazing oil!

Coconut Oil Is:

  • Anti-bacterial (kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, gum diseases, and other bacterial infections)
  • Anti-carcinogenic (coconut oil has antimicrobial properties so it effectively prevents the spread of cancer cells and enhances the immune system)
  • Anti-fungal (kills fungi and yeast that lead to infection)
  • Anti-inflammatory (appears to have a direct effect in suppressing inflammation and repairing tissue, and it may also contribute by inhibiting harmful intestinal microorganisms that cause chronic inflammation.)[amazon asin=B001EO5Q64&template=*lrc ad (right)]
  • Anti-microbial/Infection Fighting (the medium-chain fatty acids and monoglycerides found in coconut oil are the same as those in human mother’s milk, and they have extraordinary antimicrobial properties. By disrupting the lipid structures of microbes, they inactivate them. About half of coconut oil consists of lauric acid. Lauric acid, its metabolite monolaurin and other fatty acids in coconut oil are known to protect against infection from bacteria, viruses, yeast, fungi and parasites. While not having any negative effect on beneficial gut bacteria, coconut oil inactivates undesirable microbes.)
  • An Antioxidant (protects against free-radical formation and damage)
  • Anti-parasitic (fights to rid the body of tapeworms, lice and other parasites)
  • Anti-protozoa (kills giardia, a common protozoan infection of the gut)
  • Anti-retroviral (kills HIV and HLTV-1)
  • Anti-viral (kills viruses that cause influenza, herpes, measles, hepatitis C, SARS, AIDS, and other viruses)
  • Infection fighting
  • Has no harmful for discomforting side effects
  • Known to improve nutrient absorption (easily digestible; makes vitamins and minerals more available to the body)
  • Nontoxic to humans and animals

Daily Dosage:

Here is a chart outlining the recommended daily dosage of virgin coconut oil for persons over the age of 12. Coconut oil may be consumed by children under 12 but it is advisable to check with a healthcare practitioner on the proper dosage. Any good naturopath will have the information at the ready. (Starting at 12 months of age, I gave my daughter one teaspoon per day and she weighed about 16 pounds at that time.)

Weight in pounds/kilograms Number of tablespoons of coconut oil daily
175+/79+ 4
150+ /68+ 3 1/2
125+ / 57+ 3
100+/ 45+ 2 1/2
75+ / 34+ 2
50+ / 23+ 1 1/2
25+ / 11+ 1

Type of Coconut Oil to use:

  • Expeller pressed (refined) coconut oil can be used for anything. It does not have a coconutty smell or taste.
  • Virgin (unrefined) coconut oil tastes and smells coconutty and is great for cooking and baking where you want that flavor. You can use it for anything but it will impart a coconut taste (mild) and odor (pleasant in my book)!
  • Food grade should always be used.

160 Uses for Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil for Personal Hygiene/Body

  • 1. Age Spots (also known as liver spots) – applying coconut oil directly to the age spot will help it fade.
  • 2. After Shave – coconut oil will help heal your skin after shaving without clogging pores. Great for razor burn!
  • 3. Baldness – apply three times a day to affected area of hair loss. Coconut oil supports cell regeneration.
  • 4. Birth Marks – can be used after a laser removal treatment to aid in healing. Can also be applied after an apple cider vinegar treatment to help support and aid the fading process.[amazon asin=B002ALLFCE&template=*lrc ad (right)]
  • 5. Body Scrub – mix coconut oil and sugar together and rub all over! Rinse off and your skin will be super soft! You can add in essential oils if you would like a specific smell.
  • 6. Bruises – applied directly to the bruise, coconut oil enhances the healing process by reducing swelling and redness.
  • 7. Bug Bites – when applied directly to a bug bite, coconut oil can stop the itching and burning sensation as well as hasten the healing process.
  • 8. Burns – apply to burn site immediately and continue applying until healed. Will reduce the chances of permanent scarring and promotes healing.
  • 9. Chapstick – just rub a little into lips and it not only acts as a softening agent but it also has an SPF of about 4 so you get a little protection!
  • 10. Cradle Cap – having issues with dry skin on your baby’s scalp? Coconut oil will not only nourish your baby’s skin, it also helps eliminate cradle cap. Just rub a teaspoon onto scalp daily.
  • 11. Dandruff – coconut oil soaks into the scalp moisturizing dry skin and relieves symptoms of dandruff. It also helps to control oil secretion from the scalp, another leading cause of dandruff.
  • 12. Deodorant – coconut oil alone can be used as a deodorant, but even more effective in combination with cornstarch/arrowroot powder and baking soda!
  • 13. Diaper Salve – very comforting on a rashy bum with no harsh chemicals. Also safe for cloth diapers.
  • 14. Exfoliator – coconut oil mixed with sugar or sea salt is a very nourishing and effective exfoliator and safe to use all over the body.
  • 15. Eye cream – apply under the eyes to reduce puffiness, bags and wrinkles. Use on the lids in the evening.
  • 16. Face Wash/ Soap – mix equal parts coconut oil with either olive oil or castor oil and use in place of soap when washing your face. Wet face, rub oil in and leave on for two minutes, rinse and pat dry. One teaspoon should be adequate.
  • 17. Hair conditioner/ Deep Treatment – use as a leave-in hair conditioner by applying a teaspoon of coconut oil to your ends and then running your fingers through your hair to distribute the rest! For a deeper treatment, rub in a tablespoon of coconut oil onto your dry scalp and gently work through to the ends. Put a shower cap on to prevent transfer onto bed linens and leave on overnight.
  • 18. Hair Gel/ Defrizzer – rub a little between your palms and either scrunch into hair (for curly hair) or finger comb in through from scalp to ends (for wavy/straight hair).[amazon asin=B000WUFH1K&template=*lrc ad (right)]
  • 19. Healing – when applied on scrapes and cuts, coconut oil forms a thin, chemical layer which protects the wound from outside dust, bacteria and virus. Coconut oil speeds up the healing process of bruises by repairing damaged tissues. Plus, it smells a heck-of-a-lot better than anything from the pharmacy.
  • 20. Lubricant – it is an all-natural, perfectly safe personal lubricant. Not compatible with latex!
  • 21. Makeup Remover – use a cotton swab and a dab of coconut oil and you would be amazed at how well it works!
  • 22. Massage Oil – pretty simple; grab some and rub!
  • 23. Moisturizer – simply scoop some out of the jar and apply all over your body, including neck and face.
  • 24. Mole Remover – when applied after an apple cider vinegar compress for several weeks, moles have been known to “slide off” or just disappear.
  • 25. Nipple Cream – works great to nourish cracked, sore or dry nipples. Apply to a cotton ball and leave on your nipples between feedings.
  • 26. Oily Skin Fix – prone to oily skin or an oily T-zone? Use a pea sized amount underneath makeup or alone to reduce the appearance of oil.
  • 27. Pre Shampoo Treatment for Hair – rub a little into scalp and hair before shampooing. This is especially useful for those with course or frizzy hair.
  • 28. Pre-Shave – coconut oil will prep skin for the pending damage caused by shaving.
  • 29. Skin Problems – coconut oil relieves skin problems such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema.
  • 30. Stretch Mark Cream – coconut oil is great at nourishing damaged skin. It may not be the magic stretch mark cure but it will help.
  • 31. Sun Burn Relief – rub liberal amounts of coconut oil into the affected area.
  • 32. Sunscreen (All Natural) – see post on natural sunscreen for more detailed information.
  • 33. Swimmers Ear – mix garlic oil and coconut oil and put a few drops in affected ear for about 10 minutes. Do this 2-3 times a day and it usually works within one or two days.
  • 34. Tattoo Healing and Moisturizer – continued use of coconut oil on tattoos will help keep the pigment from fading. Used on new tattoos, coconut will hasten the healing process and decrease the chance of infection.[amazon asin=0941599604&template=*lrc ad (right)]
  • 35. Toothpaste – there are numerous recipes out there but I just mix coconut oil and baking soda and dab a little of the mix on my toothbrush.
  • 36. Wrinkle Prevention and Wrinkle Reducer – rubbing coconut oil on winkles and sagging skin helps strengthen the connective tissues to bring back that youthful look!

Coconut Oil for General Health and Wellness

  • 37. Breastfeeding – for breastfeeding moms, consuming 3 ½ tablespoons of coconut oil daily will enrich the milk supply.
  • 38. Bones and Teeth – coconut oil aids in the absorption of calcium and magnesium leading to better development of bones and teeth.
  • 39. Digestion – the saturated fats in coconut oil help control parasites and fungi that cause indigestion and other digestion related problems such as irritable bowel syndrome. The fat in coconut oil also aids in the absorption of vitamins, minerals and amino acids, making you healthier all around.
  • 40. Energy Boost – coconut oil boosts energy and endurance making it a great supplement for athletes as well as those needed a quick pick me up.
  • 41. Fitness – coconut oil has been proven to stimulate your metabolism, improve thyroid function, and escalate energy levels, all of which help decrease your unwanted fat while increasing muscle.
  • 42. Improves insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose making it great for both diabetics and non-diabetic.
  • 43. Lung Function – increases the fluidity of cell surfaces.
  • 44. Nausea – rub some coconut oil on the inside for the wrist and forearm to calm an upset stomach.[amazon asin=B00866AM2G&template=*lrc ad (right)]
  • 45. Nose bleeds – coconut oil can prevent nose bleeding that is caused by sensitivity to weather such as extreme heat and extreme cold. This condition happens when the nasal passages become dry because of cold or dry air resulting to burns and cracks in the mucus membranes so bleeding happens. To prevent this just put coconut oil in you nostrils. Coat your finger with coconut oil and then lie down and coat your finger inside your nose. Doing this will strengthen and protect the capillaries in the nasal passages. A Vitamin C supplement will also help prevent nose bleeding.
  • 46. Oil pulling with coconut oil offers a two for one health benefit!
  • 47. Stress Relief – relieve mental fatigue by applying coconut oil to the head in a circular, massaging motion. The natural aroma of coconuts is extremely soothing thus helping to lower your stress level.
  • 48. Vitamin and nutrient absorption
  • 49. Weight loss – the saturated fats contribute to weight loss and controlling cravings. Also increases metabolic rate.

Coconut Oil for Health Problems (when taken internally it is known for aiding, preventing, relieving or even curing these health issues)

  • 50. Acid reflux/indigestion aid if taken after a meal
  • 51. Adrenal fatigue
  • 52. Allergies (seasonal hay fever)
  • 53. Alzheimer’s/Dementia
  • 54. Asthma, even in children
  • 55. Autism
  • 56. Bowel function
  • 57. Bronchial Infections
  • 58. Cancer (has been shown to prevent colon and breast cancer in laboratory tests)
  • 59. Candida Albicans
  • 60. Cholesterol – improves HDL (‘good’ cholesterol) to LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol) ratio in people with high cholesterol
  • 61. Chronic Fatigue
  • 62. Crohns Disease and resulting inflammation
  • 63. Circulation/feeling cold all the time
  • 64. Colds and Flus
  • 65. Constipation
  • 66. Cystic Fibrosis
  • 67. Depression[amazon asin=B0019LTJ7O&template=*lrc ad (right)]
  • 68. Diabetes – helps keep blood sugar levels stable and/or helps with cravings
  • 69. Dysentery
  • 70. Eczema – in addition to taking it internally, many have success applying it externally, but some don’t
  • 71. Edema
  • 72. Energy boost
  • 73. Epilepsy (known to reduce epileptic seizures)
  • 74. Fever Support
  • 75. Flaky, Dry Skin
  • 76. Gallbladder disease and pain
  • 77. Gas
  • 78. H. pylori
  • 79. Head Lice[amazon asin=B009324C0U&template=*lrc ad (right)]
  • 80. Heart Disease (protects arteries from injury that causes atherosclerosis)
  • 81. Hemorrhoids (can applied externally or internally twice a day)
  • 82. HIV
  • 83. Hot Flashes
  • 84. Hyperthyroidism
  • 85. Immune System Builder
  • 86. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
  • 87. Jaundice
  • 88. Kidney Disease
  • 89. Kidney Stones (aids in dissolving them)
  • 90. Liver Disease
  • 91. Lung Disease
  • 92. Malnutrition[amazon asin=B00BSHAYGY&template=*lrc ad (right)]
  • 93. Mental Clarity
  • 94. Menstruation Relief regarding pain/cramps and heavy blood flow
  • 95. Migraines (with regular use)
  • 96. Mononucleosis
  • 97. Osteoporosis
  • 98. Pancreatitis
  • 99. Parasites
  • 100. Periodontal Disease and tooth decay
  • 101. Prostate Enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
  • 102. Rickets
  • 103. Skin problems
  • 104. Scurvy
  • 105. Stomach Ulcers
  • 106. Toenail fungus
  • 107. Thrush
  • 108. Thyroid Function (regulates an overactive or underactive thyroid)[amazon asin=B008RJMXPQ&template=*lrc ad (right)]
  • 109. Ulcerative Colitis
  • 110. Underactive thyroid gland – results have shown subsequent thyroid blood tests becoming normal after ingesting coconut oil daily
  • 111. Urinary Tract Infections (Bladder Infections)

Coconut Oil and Health Problems (when applied topically it is known for aiding, relieving, or even curing these health issues)

  • 112. Acne
  • 113. Allergies/Hay Fever – rub a little inside the nostrils for quick relief. The pollen will cling to the oil.
  • 114. Athletes foot
  • 115. Back pain/sore muscles
  • 116. Boils and cysts
  • 117. Canker sores
  • 118. Cellulite
  • 119. Circumcision healing – although I am personally against circumcision, I have read that coconut oil is a really great healer for this.[amazon asin=1583332049&template=*lrc ad (right)]
  • 120. Decongestant – rub coconut oil on the chest and under the nose when congested from a cold or allergies
  • 121. Ear infection – place a few drops inside the ear twice daily for relief from pain. Also fights the infection itself.
  • 122. Genital Warts (through topical application over 6 weeks, and coconut oil enemas twice a day depending on the location of the warts)
  • 123. Gum Disease and Gingivitis (use as a toothpaste or rub directly on gums)
  • 124. Herpes (applied topically and taken internally)
  • 125. Hives (reduces the itch and swelling
  • 126. Pink eye (applied around and in the eye)
  • 127. Ringworm
  • 128. Toothache
  • 129. Warts

Coconut Oil and Cooking

  • 130. Butter Substitute – use 1 cup to 1 cup ratio when replacing butter in recipes with coconut oil.
  • 131. Nutritional Supplement – melt and add to smoothies.
  • 132. Replacement for butter/lard/Crisco/PAM in its solid form for greasing pans, pie crusts, etc.
  • 133. Replacement for various oils in liquid form – baking, cooking, sautéing, etc.

Coconut Oil and Pets/AnimalsCheck with your veterinarian but the recommended dosage for animals is 1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of body weight twice daily.

  • 134. Aids healing of digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel syndrome and colitis
  • 135. Aids in arthritis or ligament problems
  • 136. Aids in elimination of hairballs and coughing
  • 137. Applied topically, promotes the healing of cuts, wounds, hot spots, dry skin and hair, bites and stings
  • 138. Clears up skin conditions such as eczema, flea allergies, contact dermatitis, and itchy skin
  • 139. Disinfects cuts and promotes wound healing
  • 140. Great for dogs and cats for general wellness. Just add a teaspoon to their water bowl daily.
  • 141. Helps prevent or control diabetes[amazon asin=B002V2GKLI&template=*lrc ad (right)]
  • 142. Helps sedentary dogs feel energetic
  • 143. Helps reduce weight, increases energy
  • 144. Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
  • 145. Makes coats become sleek and glossy, and deodorizes doggy odor
  • 146. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) have been shown to improve brain energy metabolism and decrease the amyloid protein buildup that results in brain lesions in older dogs.
  • 147. Prevents and treats yeast and fungal infections, including candida
  • 148. Reduces allergic reactions and improves skin health
  • 149. Reduces or eliminates bad breath in dogs
  • 150. Regulates and balance insulin and promotes normal thyroid function

Other Uses for Coconut Oil

  • 151. Chewing Gum in Hair Remover – just rub some coconut oil over the stuck chewing gum, leave in for about 30 minutes, then roll the gum between your fingertip. Voila! It’s out!
  • 152. Goo Gone – just mix equal parts coconut oil and baking soda into a paste. Apply to the “sticky” area and let it set for a minute. Then scrub off with an old toothbrush or the scrubby side of a sponge.
  • 153. Insect repellent – mix coconut oil with peppermint oil extract and rub it all over exposed skin. Keeps insects off better than anything with DEET! Tons safer too.[amazon asin=B004RGKZVM&template=*lrc ad (right)]
  • 154. Moisturizing and cleaning leather products
  • 155. Oiling wood cutting boards and wood bowls
  • 156. Polishing Bronze – all you have to do is rub a little oil into a cotton towel and then wipe down the statue. It cleans and helps deepen the color of your bronze.
  • 157. Polish Furniture – coconut oil with a little bit of lemon juice to polish wood furniture. However, I recommend you test it first on a very small, unobtrusive part of your furniture to make sure it works the way you’d like.
  • 158. Seasoning animal hide drums
  • 159. Seasoning cookware
  • 160. Soap making – coconut oil can be used as one of the fats in soap

Reprinted with permission from Ybertaud9.com.