Most people use coconut oil for cooking and baking, but did you know coconut oil has many more uses that have nothing to do with cooking? Wikipedia describes coconut oil as an edible, fatty oil extracted from the kernel or meat of mature coconuts harvested from the coconut palm. It’s relatively versatile, affordable, accessible, and easy to work with—it’s no wonder people are using it in the most uncommon ways. Head to toe, around the home, and for our loved ones, here are 10 surprising uses for coconut oil:
1. Oil Pulling
Wellness Mama describes oil pulling as an age-old remedy that uses natural substances to clean and detoxify teeth and gums. The benefits of oil pulling are natural teeth whitening, gum improvement, and removable of harmful bacteria. Wellness Mama explains why she prefers coconut oil over other oil-pulling options.
2. Facial Cleanser And Makeup Remover
Oil cleansing is a popular choice for natural skincare enthusiasts because it’s cost effective and packs a powerful punch as an all-in-one product. Use coconut oil to cleanse skin, remove makeup, and moisturize your skin all while simplifying your skincare routine.
3. Hair Sealant
Coconut oil has quickly become a holy grail in my curly hair routine, offering a great lightweight oil sealant for my moisturizer, adding shine, and reducing frizz. Bonus tip: It’s also a great detangler when applied to damp hair and allowed to sit for a few minutes. Your tangles will loosen and allow for an easier time detangling.
4. Makeup Brush Cleaner
Extend the life of your makeup brushes by opting for a natural, gentle cleanser. Simply melt down the Coconut Oil, swirl the brushes in the oil to remove the make-up, rinse with warm water, shape, and allow to air dry. The leftover oil residue will add softness to your bristles, but if you opt against the residue, simply use a mild soap and water to remove it.
5. Squeaky Door Hinges
Forget WD-40! Instead, rub a bit of coconut oil on the hinge to get a little peace and quiet.
6. Soothe Dry Skin
Coconut oil offers great moisturizing properties that can be used to soothe any dry skin ailments. Dry rubbing a bit on dry nostrils, lips, elbows, cracked feet, or even to soothe the paws or irritated skin of your favorite furry friend! Bonus Tip: Use in place of the name-brand diaper rash cream to soothe your baby’s bottom.
7. DIY Vapor Rub
A little congested? Everyday Roots shares an easy 3-ingredient vapor rub recipe that is sure to have you feeling better fast!
8. Coffee Creamer
Oil in coffee? Yup. It makes a great alternative for those that want to enjoy a cup of coffee but would rather not have it black and are opting for a non-dairy/sugar-free option. You’ll want to blend it into the coffee to avoid it separating and floating to the top.
9. Wood Polish
Love the wood in your home but hate the fading once the chemicals wear off? Use coconut oil to add a nice natural shine to your favorite pieces of furniture. Bonus Tip: Coconut oil works on metal too! Rub a bit on with a soft cloth, wait a few minutes, then buff (be sure the surface is dust free first).
10. Stain Prevention
Dying your hair or eyebrows? Apply a thin layer of coconut oil around the area being dyed to act as a barrier against staining your skin. Once you have finished applying your beautiful new color, simply use a cloth with warm water to wipe away the coconut oil. Bonus Tip: Coconut oil also be used in your plastic ware to fight food stains. Craving more uncommon uses for your coconut oil? DIY & Crafts lists 200 more that are ready for you to try! Featured photo credit: Dotpolka via albumarium.com
