17 Unique ways to use more coconut oil each day

When fall arrives, I line my table with Mason Jars and get to work on revamping my toiletries and medicine cabinet with DIY products made from my favorite, versatile ingredient: Coconut oil.

It started by learning about all of the health benefits that come from using the oil. Luckily, I fell in love with the taste and it became my go-to in the kitchen. Soon, in an attempt to use more environmentally friendly items, I experimented with replacing various household products by mixing a few sustainable ingredients I already had on hand. Turns out, not only was I eliminating chemicals from my daily use but was also saving money in the process.

There are hundreds of ways to use Coconut Oil, but I want to share with you some of my favorites.

Provided by Pixabay

Provided by Pixabay

17 “Other” Ways To Use Coconut Oil Every Day:

1. Burns and cuts: As a parent, I’ve suffered many “oven bites” by being a hurried chef. When learning coconut oil helps with the healing process, I’ve stopped adding scars to my hands.

2. Hair treatment: One of the downsides to the change of seasons, is the lack of moisture in the air. A few times each month, I will let the oil sit on my scalp for a few hours (sometimes even overnight). Ditch the chemical-laden shampoos and try this natural, less expensive option.

3. Replace Thy Butter: My daughter’s favorite food is grilled cheese. In attempt to make it a tad on the healthy side, I started coating the bread in coconut oil versus butter. She loves it! In fact, I’ve almost entirely cut out the use of butter. Whether using it for a replacement in a cookie recipe or for making homemade popcorn, it adds a deliciously not-too-sweet touch.

Provided by Pixabay

Provided by Pixabay

4. Toothpaste: Grab a small mason jar, your favorite 100% pure essential oil (peppermint, orange or lemon all work great) and a dash of Pink Himalayan Sea Salt and you have yourself a tasty toothpaste free of ingredients you cannot pronounce. (Speaking of teeth, have you tried oil pulling?)

5. Stretch marks: Whether your pregnant and hoping to prevent stretch marks or simply trying to reduce the appearance of existing ones, coconut oil helps immensely!

6. Psoriasis: Since middle school I’ve had minor psoriasis come and go. A dab of coconut oil on these spots really has transformed my skin.

7. Shaving cream: I can’t remember the last time I purchased shaving cream.

8. Lip balm: Gone are the days of Chapstick and Burt’s Bees. Coconut oil relieves chapped lips and is also great for the redness that appears when having a runny nose.

9. Cuticles: Not only does coconut oil help relieve the pain of those pesky cuticles, but is great for the overall growth and health of your nails and nail bed.

10. Lube: Yes, THAT type of lube. I’ll say no more.

Provided by Pixabay

Provided by Pixabay

11. Smoothies: Shakes and smoothies are my favorite way to start the day. Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil is not only beneficial to your health, but also makes you feel like you’re sitting on a beach in Hawaii sipping a tropical drink.

12. Coffee: I love black coffee. But every now and then, I want some flavor in my morning Joe. Adding coconut oil gives it just enough sweet without the artificial flavor of creamer.

13. Diaper rash: With too many products being recalled for little ones, coconut oil is a good alternative to the popular Big Box Store goods.

14. Make-up remover: In the cooler months, I try not to wash my face as often as I do in the summer. To remove any makeup, I dab on the coconut oil and use a soft cloth wipe it off. I’ve never been a fan of the make-up remover wipes because they feel to harsh on my skin.

15. Goodbye squeaky doors: Think of it as your new WD-40.

16. Furniture polish: Combine with lemon juice or essential oil and watch your countertops and tabletops shine.

brushes

17. Cleansing brushes: Whether make-up brushes or paint brushes, coconut oil helps naturally remove any lingering color. Rinse with water and allow them to air dry.

Keep in mind, each skin type will react differently and it’s best to start gradually to see how your body reacts to the change.

TIP: When making the purchase, be sure to find an “unrefined” or “virgin” coconut oil as it has been less processed than the “refined.” 

What are you favorite ways to use coconut oil?

I would love to hear from you! Drop me a line on Twitter or Facebook.

Erinne Magee

About Erinne Magee

Erinne is a Maine-based writer and freelance editor specializing in first person essays, poetry and picture books. Her work has appeared in publications like: The Washington Post, Redbook, Yahoo News, The Huffington Post, Good Housekeeping and The Toronto Sun. For more, visit: www.erinnemagee.com