More on oil pulling can be found on here and here. It's recommended to pull for up to 20 minutes a day. I wish I could go that long but the texture gets to me after several minutes but I shoot for 7.
What is your favorite natural product that offers multiple uses?
In this blog post, I will list 10 of my favorite ways to use coconut oil. If you'd like to learn another several hundred ways, I recommend visiting Hybrid Rasta Mama.
1). We use coconut oil for a body moisturizer. After bathing and patting dry, the coconut oil works superbly for me in the warmer months. However, I find that I have to mix the coconut oil with other quality oils like jojoba or avocado, and shea butter to combat dry, wintry skin. I've made my own body butter as seen here. Either way, I'm still using the coconut oil either direct or with another product for my skin from the tips of my toes to the top of my forehead and everywhere in between (including on my hair more in #2). Coconut oil has a natural SPF albeit low (around 5-8) it is still offering some protection. I've used coconut oil on my skin directly after getting sun burned. It helps relieve the burning as well as expediting my skin's healing process.
2). Coconut oil is a great hair moisturizer especially if your hair is thick and wavy or curly. I started no-pooing in February (2013) and use coconut oil on my hair after it's been washed and conditioned. Learn more about my no-poo experience here. I only apply the coconut oil from the nape of my neck to my ends and reapply daily as needed. I use a nickel size amount if that. A little goes a long way and you'll know when you've used too much so, start out with a pea size and slowly work your way up.
3). Coconut oil makes a great shaving lotion. I mix equal parts of baking soda with coconut oil and apply directly to the area I will shave. If you find that your skin is sensitive to the baking soda then add more coconut oil. There is no wrong way to mix it. Adjust where you see fit. You can also leave out the baking soda. In either case, you'll find that your razors last A LOT longer!
4). The same 'shaving lotion' can be used as a gentle skin exfoliator, too.
5). Coconut oil can be mixed with sugar and an optional essential oil for a foot and / or hand scrub.
6). Coconut oil is used to calm itchy skin. Next time you experience an itchy rash, reach for the coconut oil first then reapply daily as needed.
7). Coconut oil is a common ingredient in DIY deodorants. The image below shows what I have used during the cooler months. I live in the desert and the temperatures can get in the triple digits during the summer, so I recently purchased a natural deodorant from Tehacha-Bee Farm that stays solid. If you'd like a DIY homemade deodorant for sensitive skin using bentonite clay, I recommend checking out OhLardy!.
Measurements:
1/3 cup arrowroot powder
1/4 cup baking soda
5 T coconut oil
1-2 drops of essential oil (optional)
8). Coconut oil can be used to make DIY tooth powders/pastes. I have two recipes. One is hailing from Green Dreams and can be found here. I have found another one that I am most excited about and it's found on The Coconut Mama's page here. Since I've experienced better results with the latter, I'll share the recipe so you don't have to click off the page:
My 4 year old has been asking to brush his teeth in the middle of the day with the 'new' stuff as he likes the way his teeth feel afterwards. The paste is sticky... well, it's kind of like the texture of the tooth paste that a dentist uses. Takes a few thorough rinses before it's all out. But goodness it is one that I can brag about because it tastes great during and after! Thank you Coconut Mama for a home run!
9). Coconut oil is a make-up remover.
10). Coconut oil is a lip moisturizer.
What is your favorite ways to use coconut oil? Did I leave any out that you'd like to share? If so, please leave a comment below.
Choose, eat, and live well!
=)