The Magic of Coconut Oil

Many people across the globe are starting to realize the numerous benefits of something so humble- coconut oil. The best type of coconut oil to use is unrefined, organic, and virgin.  It is no secret that there is an abundance of coconuts in Goa. Dry coconuts are gathered, split open, and their insides are taken out and chopped. This is then sun-dried till they reach the right texture for oil extraction. The coconut pieces are then taken to the mill and the oil is extracted. But what can it be used for?

 

Coconut oil in cooking

Coconut oil can act as a healthy substitute for other ingredients. For example, in baking, room-temperature coconut oil can be used to replace butter. It can also be used instead of other oils in various recipes be it sweet or savoury. Coconut oil is said to probably have health benefits like aiding weight loss, reducing hunger, promoting healthier bones, and more. It remains stable even at high temperatures.

 

Coconut oil for skin

If you have dry skin, coconut oil can be a great moisturizer. It may also reduce dark spots, scars, and fix uneven skin tones.  It can also be combined with other ingredients and used as a body scrub or massage oil.  Some people even use it as a makeup remover, to smoothen feet,  or as a natural lip balm.

 

Coconut oil for hair

Coconut oil is known to be one of the best oils to apply for hair. Warm some coconut oil and massage on your scalp and hair. Leave it on for 30 minutes or keep it overnight and wash it off with a sulphate free shampoo. You can even apply it to your hair after shampooing. Coconut oil moisturizes hair, nourishes the scalp, and offers damage protection. It may even prevent hair loss, dandruff, and lice.

 

Other uses

The uses of this versatile oil are beyond hair and skin. It can be combined with other ingredients to create a toothpaste. Some people put coconut oil in their mouths and swish it around in their mouth, especially between the teeth. It is said to reduce the bacteria. Coconut oil can be your cleaning buddy by removing greasy stains, sticky surfaces, and bathroom dirt. It can polish leather and furniture. This oil has even been utilized with other items to create deodorants, insect repellents, and sunscreens.

 

Companies like Narla and Rootree sell organic virgin coconut oil. Rootree coconut oil is available at Panjim salons and can be ordered through their website. Narla sells its oil through Amazon, Flipkart, and their own website, as well as premium stores like Delfino’s, Saukhyam, OMO organics, Oscar’s Junction supermarket, Planet Hollywood beach resort, Cabo Serai, Goa Chitra Museum, and more. Many other supermarkets in Goa also carry coconut oil of different brands. Local markets also contain coconut oil sellers.

 

SHERYL GONSALVES | NT GOGOANOW