Coconut oil is a superfood derived from the meat of mature coconuts (Cocos nucifera). It has become incredibly popular in recent years because of its many health benefits. A rich source of healthy fats, coconut oil can provide quick energy to your body, support heart health and brain function and promote sensible weight management plans.
But coconut oil has other uses besides being a health food. In fact, as one of the most versatile natural products on the planet, coconut oil is something everyone needs in a survival scenario. Aside from being a good cooking oil, coconut oil can also be used to condition your tools, moisturize your skin and hair, and combat external threats, among other uses.
When stocking up on coconut oil, preppers suggest choosing unrefined or extra virgin coconut oil. Unlike refined coconut oil, extra virgin coconut oil tastes more nutritious and lasts longer in storage.
Here are 9 survival uses for extra virgin coconut oil:
- It can be used to promote normal wound healing
Coconut oil has many useful properties that can support the body’s natural ability to heal. A study published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology reported that virgin coconut oil (VCO) stimulates the body’s natural collagen production, which supports healthy wound healing. VCO can also help increase your antioxidant levels. Antioxidants support wound healing by protecting your skin cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. [1] [2]
- It can be used to soothe bug bites or bee stings
Coconut oil is rich in useful fats, such as lauric acid. Lauric acid is often used as an ingredient in topical skin remedies because it can soothe skin irritation and itching. Lauric acid’s soothing properties can also help reduce redness and swelling. [3]
- It can be used to clean, polish or lubricate tools and other objects
Coconut oil is a multipurpose oil that’s great to have on hand. You can use it to clean your grill and leather products or to remove spots and stains, as well as gunk left behind by tough stickers. Coconut oil can also be used to protect non-stick pans, polish furniture and lubricate objects that are prone to rusting, such as bicycle chains and garden tools, and even your guns. [4]
- It can be used as a substitute oil for cooking and baking
Extra virgin coconut oil is not only healthier than most conventional cooking oils; it also has a longer shelf life and a rich, vanilla-like flavor that can enhance your recipes, especially when used for baking. Because of its unique fat content, coconut oil is highly resistant to oxidation at high temperatures. This makes it a great oil to use for high-heat cooking and baking. [5] [6]
- It can be used as a carrier oil
Carrier oils are naturally occurring oils that come from the seeds, kernels or nuts of edible plants. They are widely used in aromatherapy to dilute essential oils as well as to help “carry” them into the skin. Coconut oil is one of the best carrier oils for essential oils because it is quickly absorbed by the skin. It also contains fatty acids and plant compounds that can help nourish your skin. [7] [8]
- It can used as an energy source for your body
Coconut oil is a natural supplement that can support healthy energy levels. Thanks to a type of fat it contains known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), coconut oil can provide your body with an energy source that it can use immediately. For a quick pick-me-up, simply add a tablespoon of extra virgin coconut oil to a cup of warm water. [11] [12]
- It can be used as a mouthwash
The beneficial properties of coconut oil are not only useful for your skin. When used as a mouthwash, coconut oil helps protect healthy gums and teeth from external threats. Coconut oil is also great for oil pulling – simply swish it around inside your mouth for 10 minutes every day to maintain optimal oral health. [13]
- It can be used to make candles for lighting
Did you know that you can make candles using coconut oil? All you need is a glass jar, a small piece of cord or wooden wick, coconut oil and some soy wax flakes. Start by securing the wick to the bottom of the jar with hot glue. Melt 1-part coconut oil and 3 parts soy wax flakes and pour the liquid into the jar with the wick. Let the candle solidify overnight. Cover the jar when not in use and store it in a cool place. [14]
- It can be used as a conditioner and a moisturizer
Thanks to the fatty acids present in coconut oil, it can support healthy, glowing hair. Coconut oil can also be used to keep the skin hydrated and to preserve its function as a protective barrier. [15]
Where to get clean organic extra virgin coconut oil?
A spectacular superfood and a versatile natural product, coconut oil is a great item to have a few containers of in storage. But getting clean, high-quality extra virgin coconut oil is not easy. Many coconut oils sold on the market today go through a refining process that involves the use of chemicals and bleach.
Health Ranger Select Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is a truly natural extra virgin coconut oil that’s carefully sourced from reliable growers and gently processed without the use of harmful chemicals or bleach. We have also extensively lab tested every product lot of our organic coconut oil for heavy metals, microbiology and glyphosate.
Enjoy the many health benefits of coconut oil with Health Ranger Select Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil. A great source of MCTs, extra virgin coconut oil supports healthy brain function and digestion. It also promotes healthy hair and skin and can provide your body with a great source of energy.
You can use our premium coconut oil for cooking, baking, oil pulling, moisturizing your skin, conditioning your hair and for a variety of other uses. Health Ranger Select Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is also vegan, non-China and non-GMO, and is certified organic and Kosher.
Know of other great uses for this spectacular superfood? Share them in the comments below.
References
[1] https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/313516
[3]https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323154
[4] https://www.bostonmagazine.com/health/2015/06/18/coconut-oil/
[5] https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/substitute-for-vegetable-oil
[6] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/why-is-coconut-oil-good-for-you
[7] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321639
[8] https://www.healthline.com/health/carrier-oil
[9] https://www.painpathways.org/can-coconut-oil-reduce-pain/
[10]https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3109/13880200903062614
[11] https://www.livestrong.com/article/128275-coconut-oil-energy/
[12] https://urbansurvivalsite.com/25-survival-uses-coconut-oil/
[13] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coconut-oil-uses
[14] https://www.hunker.com/13411112/how-to-make-candles-using-coconut-oil
[15] https://www.verywellhealth.com/coconut-oil-for-your-hair-4171883
