Coconut trees are native to the Indian subcontinent, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, Burma and the Philippines. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, capric acid and vitamin E, which have positive effects on hair health. Bacteria cause the breakdown of lauric and capric acid to form monolaurin and monocaprin, which have antibacterial properties. Fatty acids contained in coconut oil help to moisturize and soften hair, according to organicfacts.net
Hair Conditioner
According to Healthy Oil Planet, research done in Mumbai, India, has shown that the fatty acids in coconut oil penetrate the hair shaft better than mineral and sunflower oils. When coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft, it moisturizes, strengthens and thickens the hair strand. The study concluded that coconut oil is effective for treatment for dry brittle hair. According to Coconutconnections.com, coconut oil applied to the scalp fights dandruff, softens hair, and is good for the scalp.
Web India 123 recommends coconut oil applied directly to hair as a conditioner. To do this, massage warm coconut oil into hair before washing. Cover your head with a hot wet towel or plastic cap for an hour, then wash hair. The hot wet towel and plastic cap allows heat which helps coconut oil to penetrate hair.(Ref. 3)
Shampoo Ingredient
Keeping hair clean is an important part of an effective hair care regimen. However, valuable hair oils can get lost in the washing process, leaving hair dry and brittle. Use of conditioning additives such as coconut oil can guard against shampoo-induced loss of hair oil. The antioxidant, moisturizing, antiseptic and hair strengthening properties of coconut oil make it an excellent ingredient for shampoos. Coconut oil also contains polyphenols, which give it a pleasant scent.
Examples of shampoos that contain coconut oil are: Tropical Traditions Organic Virgin Coconut Oil Shampoo Bar, Lemon Mint Hair Wash, Kiel’s Amino Acid Shampoo, Coconut Oil Organic Lemongrass Tangerine, Coconut Oil Organic Pineapple, and Kirk's Natural Coco Castile Hair Shampoo.
Diet
Coconut oil is used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine because it is believed to have broad health benefits. Lita Lee, Ph.D., recommends dietary coconut oil because of research that suggests coconut oil has antiviral and anti-fungal properties, and helps in general immune support. Nutrients that favor immune health have a positive influence upon hair health. Talk with your doctor before adding coconut oil to your diet.
Member Comments