Back in June (of 2017) the American Heart Association (AHA) released a report which linked saturated-fat consumption to heart disease. This study analyzed years-worth of data from various studies and began to question just how good adding coconut oil to your diet/lifestyle could be. In one of AHA’s studies, they found that by decreasing someone’s saturated fat intake with non-saturated fat by 30% and replacing it with unsaturated fat, they were able to greatly decrease the chances of heart attacks.

According to the AHA, coconut oil is 82% saturated fat, and therefore they “-advise against the use of coconut oil.”

But fear not!

Coconut oil isn’t going to kill you!

Despite these claims, there is still over twenty years of research which have proven coconut oil’s worth; it is still a powerful antifungal and antibacterial which aides in weight loss, and even protects your brain and immune system, by combating against diseases and slowing down aging!

Despite what you may have heard in recent media claims, coconut oil is STILL good for you and has some amazing (and healthy) benefits and uses!

Coconut oil isn’t just for cooking anymore! It’s now known as a beauty multi-tasker that can be used to hydrate your skin, fight frizzy hair, and even reduce premature signs of aging.

Now, when you think about coconut oil, the last thing you’re probably thinking about doing is applying this edible plant grease all over your face and body. But countless research claims and experts, as well as an army of natural-beauty devotees all continue to swear by the stuff for just about everything.

Below are some health and beauty uses that you may not know you can use this miracle oil for:

1. Makeup Remover: Even your “super” waterproof mascara doesn’t stand a chance against coconut oil. Carefully apply it directly to the face as an oil cleanser, or gently dab it against your skin cotton pad, the makeup will just melt away.

2. Body Lotion: This versatile oil works great as a body moisturizer or substitute for your favorite lotion. And it smells great!

3. A Lice Remedy: When used with a rinse of apple cider vinegar, this super combo makes for a great all-natural lice treatment. Apply the vinegar to the head/hair and allow to dry before applying coconut oil to the entire head. Let this sit 12 to 24 hours. Brush through hair with a fine comb and then rinse before shampooing.

4. Use as an Alternative Cuticle Oil:  Help to heal that pesky peeling skin along your nail bed with a coconut oil balm right at the base of your nails. This can also help your manicure last longer!

5. All-Natural Frizz Tamer: Split ends and fly-a-ways can sometimes be annoying and hard to tame but say goodbye to those with this smoothing treatment. Just rub a dime-size amount in your hands and smooth from the base of the roots to the ends to eliminate frizz.

6. Dandruff Treatment: Often a dry scalp means dandruff. To moisturize any dry areas, lightly apply the oil to the roots and rub in as a nighttime treatment. This will also help to stimulate hair growth. Or make yourself a hair mask by melting the oil before showering and applying to hair after shampooing. Allow the oil to sit for at least 5 minutes before rinsing to ensure moisture and shine back into limp locks.

7. Itch Relief: Fight back at burns and bug bites! Even some bruises can be soothed with a topical balm of coconut oil. Coconut oil is also a safe topical to use on your pets!

8. Body Oil: Did you know that coconut oil is a natural SPF 4? Use as an alternative body oil by applying to wet skin after your shower. Pat dry and go about your day!

9. Breath Freshener: Coconut oil has some amazing antifungal and antibacterial properties. 20 minutes of oil pulling can help to clear up any germs which may be lurking in your mouth. This, later on, leads to whiter teeth, fresher breath, and even healthier gums. Or maybe you just realized you ran out of toothpaste. Don’t worry! Take a little coconut oil and add some baking soda for a quick fix.

10. Deodorant: Make yourself an all-natural deodorant that works right at home! Mix a little arrowroot powder along with some cornstarch, baking soda, and your favorite scented essential oil along with the coconut oil for a DIY odor fix.