One ingredient used in abundance here is coconut oil.{{more}} It is one of the main ingredients in our soap recipes, as it helps to produce a hard bar with a fluffy lather. But the benefits of coconut oil go well beyond soap.
Coconut oil, when applied directly to the skin, keeps it soft and smooth. It helps nourish the skin against wrinkling, It is quickly absorbed and leaves a beautiful healthy sheen.
Coconut oil will not clog pores, so facial application is nothing but beneficial and imparts a youthful radiance. When used after shaving, it helps to heal razor burn and will also soothe and calm sun burned skin.
For hundreds of years women of the tropics have used coconut oil for their hair; it works wonders on dry, itchy scalps and contains antibacterial properties making it ideal for treating dandruff. When applied directly to the hair, it is quickly absorbed and seals in moisture making hair soft and silky. Directly massaging coconut oil into the scalp increases blood circulation and the hair follicles absorb the natural occurring vitamins E and K.
Coconut oil also contains natural antifungal properties making it an ideal natural application for diaper rash and yeast related issues of the skin.
For those looking for toothpaste that does not contain fluoride and other chemicals, you can easily make your own at home using a mixture of coconut oil, baking soda and a small amount of stevia to sweeten it a bit for children. Not only does it make your teeth feel smooth and clean, it combats plaque even better than some of the well-known commercial brands. Coconut oil also works wonders when used for “pulling.”
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic method used for detoxification; it attracts and removes toxins and bacteria from your mouth and lymphatic system.
It strengthens your gums and clears mucous congestion from the sinuses and throat. Although different oils were originally used for this purpose Coconut oil, with its antimicrobial properties, is ideal for oil pulling.
So how is it done? Simply put about a tablespoon of coconut oil into your mouth and push, pull, and swish around mouth and in and out of teeth. Do not gargle!
Keep the oil in your mouth area and continue to pull and swish.
When done, spit out oil and rinse mouth thoroughly two or three times with clear water. You will notice your gums getting stronger and your teeth getting whiter and your breath will be fresher because you have removed unwanted bacteria.
Sabrina is co-owner with her husband, Ernie, of Sunflower Farm and Connecticut Natural Soapworks, a beekeeper, Reiki Master, and market master of the Milford Downtown Farmers’ Market. www.sunflowerfarm.com