We are no alien to the enduring list of benefits offered by coconut oil, rightly one of the most popular oil used since time immemorial to serve multiple purposes. This wonder oil plays a versatile role in skin care, hair care, weight loss, treating yeast infections, improving digestion, and boosting immunity against a host of infections and diseases.
Virgin coconut oil offers amplified benefits. It is extracted from the fresh milk of the coconut and is left unrefined. The virgin coconut oil retains the flavor, taste, smell and freshness of coconut thereby lending an inevitable virgin quality to it. The specially processed oil has high saturated fatty acids but these are not “Bad” for the body. In fact, it can lessen the bad cholesterol level and potentially reduce the risk of heart attacks. Adored for its enticing aroma and taste virgin coconut oil is free of hydrogenation, refinement or deodorization.
The all natural virgin coconut oil has a myriad of health benefits. Its consumption helps in regulating blood sugar, fighting heart disease, speeding up weight loss, and enhancing the immune strength.
Benefits of virgin coconut oil
Virgin coconut oil is packed with abundant essential fatty acids that fight fungal, bacterial and viral infections including influenza, herpes, and other illnesses. It is widely used in fighting infections caused by parasitic fungi known as candida.
Virgin coconut oil helps in generation of anti-bodies thereby boosting the body’s natural defence system. It is also blessed with rich antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties and is used topically to heal minor wounds and cuts.
Virgin coconut oil when taken in proper dosages can help in improving digestion and curing irritable bowel syndromes.
This wonder oil help regulates metabolism that keeps the weight under control. Also, though it is high in fats but the saturated fat content directly goes into the liver for releasing instant energy rather than getting stored in the body.
A great wound healer this mystic oil is very helpful in reducing dry rashes, stretch marks, itching and inflammation. It can also be used to control and treat eczema, psoriasis and other skin problems.
Virgin coconut oil helps to stimulate the activity of the thyroid gland which plays a crucial role in proper functioning of the body.
Virgin coconut oil boosts insulin production and helps to better utilize glucose thereby preventing the risk of diabetes and relieving the symptoms and reducing the health risks associated with diabetes.
Cautions
There is no two say about the benefits of virgin coconut oil, but as anything in excess is bad the same goes for this wonder oil.
This oil should be consumed in regulated amounts to enjoy the optimum benefits. Higher consumption is associated with some adverse effects.
Also, there are several false claims related to the efficacy of virgin coconut oil. It is a good option but don’t mistake it to be a cure-all therapy.
Further, as the appearance and taste of virgin coconut oil and regular coconut oil are much alike, several companies make false claims to get better benefits. Thus, going for a well-reputed brand which is tested and approved is important.
Dr. Rajesh Bhat, Ayurvedic Physician, AyurCentral, Girinagar, Bangalore
AyurCentral, No.173, 5th main road, 50 Feet Road, Opp. Corporation Bank-Girinagar,
Near Avalahalli BDA Park, Avalahalli, Bangalore – 560 085.
Phone : +91 80Â 2675 8787
