Coconut Oil

Scientific name
Cocos nucifera

History of plant/fun facts

Native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia, coconuts have been integral to local cultures for centuries, serving as sources of food, medicine, and fuel. In tropical regions of the world, coconuts have been a dietary staple for approximately 4,000 years

Clinical uses

The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil, such as lauric acid, exhibit antimicrobial effects, making it effective against various lipid-coated viruses and bacteria. Topical application of virgin coconut oil has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and skin-protective properties, aiding in skin barrier repair.

Products with this ingredient 

• Baby Soap

Resources

Varma SR, Sivaprakasam TO, Arumugam I, Dilip N, Raghuraman M, Pavan KB, Rafiq M, Paramesh R. In vitro anti-inflammatory and skin protective properties of Virgin coconut oil. J Tradit Complement Med. 2018 Jan 17;9(1):5-14. doi: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2017.06.012. PMID: 30671361; PMCID: PMC6335493.