by Gabrielle Schrader

Created on: April 11, 2011   Last Updated: April 12, 2011

Coconut oil is one of the healthiest things for your body and can be used in a variety of ways. Sadly, not many people know much about coconut oil or it's many benefits. This article will attempt to help you learn more about how to use coconut oil as well as where to find it. 

The first thing that you should know is that there isn't such a thing as "extra virgin" coconut oil. "Extra virgin" is the same as "virgin". The "extra" is added so that companies can charge more when in actuality it is the exact same product! As you shop for your coconut oil, do not worry about buying the "perfect" one. As long as the coconut oil is virgin, it will be good for you. At the same time, you don't need to be discouraged from buying coconut oil that is packaged as "extra virgin" because it is still "virgin". If it costs less then go for it. 

Once you have your coconut oil you may be wondering what you can do with it. One of the best things to use coconut oil for is your diet. Coconut oil can help people lose weight, lower cholesterol, help create shiny and healthy hair as well as glowing skin. Coconut oil is generally swallowed. Many people take approximately one to two tablespoons of coconut oil a day. You can either take it hard or you can stick it in the microwave so that it morphs into it's liquid form. Once the coconut oil is in it's liquid form, then you can just swallow it.

Another way to use virgin coconut oil is to apply it to the exterior of your body as well as taking it internally. If you put small amounts (a little bit goes a LONG way) on the roots of your hair and your scalp, you can help to get rid of dry skin, dandruff and create shimmery, healthy hair. Yet another thing that you can do is use the coconut oil as a lotion. It seeps into your skin and distributes oil to help moisturize. However, you should continue using a regular lotion/moisturizer as well (Cerave or Lush are excellent lotion/moisturizer choices). There is something in the lotions and moisturizers that is not in the coconut oil that your skin will continue to need. Using the lotion and the coconut oil together will create spa-like soft skin.

These tips are the most helpful tips when considering taking virgin coconut oil. Finding the oil is relatively easy. Just go to your nearest health food store and they should have jars of coconut oil for a fairly inexpensive price. Enjoy all of the added benefits!

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