Coconut oil contains a lot of nutrients which are important for good health. For thousands of years coconut products have held a valuable place in folk medicine and have been acknowledged for their valuable nutrients. Coconuts are particularly rich in lauric acid (containing about 50%). This has been proven to have antiviral, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Lauric acid in coconut is the same as lauric acid found in mother’s milk which is essential for developing babies’ immune systems. Coconut oil also helps in absorption of other nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
Dr. Mary Enig, Ph.D. a nutritionist/biochemist is one of the world’s leading authorities on fats and oils. She writes, “Approximately 50% of the fatty acids in coconut fat are lauric acid. Lauric acid is a medium chain fatty acid, which has the additional beneficial function of being formed into monolaurin in the human or animal body. Monolaurin is the antiviral, antibacterial, and antiprotozoal monoglyceride used by the human or animal to destroy lipid coated viruses such as HIV, herpes, cytomegalovirus, influenza, various pathogenic bacteria including listeria monocytogenes and heliobacter pylori, and protozoa such as giardia lamblia. Some studies have also shown some antimicrobial effects of the free lauric acid.”
Coconut oil also contains saturated fatty-acids, but does not contain dangerous trans-fatty acids found in many other oils. Trans-fat is known to increase blood levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) or ‘bad cholesterol, whilst lowering levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein) or ‘good’ cholesterol. An increase of LDLs is considered to contribute to clogging of arteries and other serious health problems. The saturated fats present in coconut oil have anti microbial properties and help in dealing with various bacteria, fungi, parasites, etc. Coconut fats are processed directly in the liver without putting strain on the digestive system and are highly recommended for those who have difficulty digesting other forms of fat. Continue reading →
Rose hips are the round seed pod left after the rose petals fall off after flowering. Rose Hip oil is a nourishing oil that helps rejuvenate the skin, improve fine lines, and maintain young fresh looking skin.
