THE FASCINATING HISTORY & BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL

The coconut is a miracle of nature, with its milk to quench our thirst and its flesh to feed the body and soul.  In recent times there is much talk in medical journals and the media about the benefits of Coconut Oil, both for consumption and for topical use.  

One study cited in Medical News Today states; applied topically Coconut oil enhances the skin's protective barrier functions and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Other studies reveal that people who include coconut oil in their native diets (India, Philippines, and Polynesia) had lower rates of cardiovascular disease. 

All this recent attention might lead one to believe that coconut oil cultivation and consumption is a relatively new occurrence.  Surprisingly this is not the case.  We are “re-discovering” what has been known for thousands of years. Ancient Sanskrit texts on Ayurvedic medicine make reference to the healing use of Coconut Oil for virtually every part of the body and the mind.  Coconuts were being cultivated in India long before the birth of Christ. Coconut cultivation literally shaped early civilization in many regions around the globe.

During World War II, the coconut was responsible for saving the lives of allied soldiers - it’s milk was used as a saline drip.  

We may not be saving lives, but at Potager Soap, we consider Coconut Oil to be a pretty amazing ingredient for so many reasons. It is an effective skin moisturizer that is easily absorbed into the skin. The addition of coconut oil to Potager soap allows the soap to encapsulate dirt and dead skin cells to be easily washed away. 

Here at Potager Soap, we use coconut oil in all of our cold-process soaps due to its many benefits. Below are some of the reasons why Potager loves using coconut oil in our handmade soap. 

BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL IN SOAP

• MOISTURIZING
• RICH LATHER
• ECZEMA & ACNE
• REDUCING INFLAMMATION
• SKIN-HEALING
• ANTIBACTERIAL, ANTIFUNGAL, ANTIVIRAL

Moisturizing
Coconut oil creates a protective moisturizing shield on the skin. Coconut oil is full of antioxidants and is composed of healthy saturated fats and vitamins like vitamin E, amino acids, lauric acid, and caprylic acid.

Rich Lather
Using coconut oil in cold-process soap is a great way to build a healthy lather. The creaminess of organic coconut oil combined with Potager’s list of certified organic ingredients helps create a luxurious lather that leaves your skin feeling clean and moisturized.

Eczema & Acne
Coconut oil is rich in antioxidants, which is why it’s a good choice when fighting acne and eczema. The medium-chain fatty acids within coconut oil have antimicrobial properties that protect skin from bacteria.

Reducing Inflammation
Researchers have studied coconut oil for its ability to treat chronic skin inflammation. The effect of cultured coconut extract may be attributed to its high levels of polyphenols and fatty acid components, which can treat inflammation.

Skin Healing
Not only is coconut oil easily absorbed into the skin, but the natural fats also help create healthier and softer skin that can better repair itself. The vitamin E and amino acids in coconut oil can help heal minor cuts and reduce scarring.

Antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral
Certified organic virgin coconut oil has natural antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.

At Potager Soap, we love coconut oil for its incredible lather, protective properties, and its moisturizing effects. The cold-process method of soapmaking combined with the natural healing properties of coconut oil makes it a great choice, and it’s perfect for people with sensitive skin.