Coconut oil is extracted from coconuts. It is solid at room temperature and very heat stable so that it doesn’t oxidize as quickly as other oils. It is (arguably) one of the best oils for cooking. It’s great for popcorn, stir-fries, and can be used for anything you’d use butter, margarine, or shortening. Extra virgin unrefined coconut oil is the most healthful.

Coconut oil is a wonderful skin moisturizer (not recommended for the face) and is a great base for homemade soap and homemade salves. It can also be used to condition hair by massaging it into the ends, waiting for a half-hour, and then washing out. Coconut oil is a popular sexual lubricant as well, but should not be used with latex condoms as it weakens them. It makes a great massage oil and has a gentle, soothing scent.

There are reports that replacing all of the fats you ingest with coconut oil will help you lose weight. Olive oil can also make this claim but should only be eaten raw. Coconut oil is also hailed as a general health tonic, helping the body to fight infections of all sorts. It is antibacterial, anti-fungal, and pesticidal without being toxic to humans or other animals.

Correspondences
Element(s): Water

Gender: Feminine

spirituality, diversity