Surprising Benefits of Coconut Oil (for Mom & Baby)

You’ve heard the hype about coconut oil, but you’re wondering: is this really a go-to solution I need to know about, now that I’m a mom?

Our answer: YES.

Coconut oil is one of the main ingredients in our 3-in-1 Baby Balm because it’s so beneficial for baby’s skin, and is completely natural and safe. It does double duty as both a cleanser and moisturizer, and turns a bath into a creamy, coconutty dream.

But that’s not the only reason that we love it. Coconut oil has uses and benefits that extend beyond getting baby clean. It is naturally antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral, and it’s high in healthy fats (known as medium-chain triglycerides, or MCT), making it great for the body both inside and out.

Our 3-in-1 Baby Balm solves a problem that coconut oil brings-- since the Balm washes off easily and does not remain on the skin, you avoid staining clothes and blankets, which is often a challenge with straight coconut oil.

Even more uses for our 3-in-1 Baby Balm

Since we know that every momma loves a multi-use product, here are even more ways our 3-in-1 Baby Balm can become your go-to baby product:

• To banish baby’s cradle cap*. Gently massage coconut oil on to baby's scalp and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Then, gently brush baby’s scalp with a soft-bristled brush and bathe baby as usual.
• As a face wash and makeup remover. Because babies aren’t the only ones who deserve natural products, momma.
• As a deep conditioner. Start with 1 tablespoon, and apply to the ends of hair after shampooing. Let sit for 2-3 minutes and then rinse well-- very well. Products with coconut oil make a great conditioner but can leave hair looking and feeling greasy if it’s not totally rinsed from the hair.
• As a shaving cream. It’s okay to borrow baby’s products, momma, especially when they leave your legs feeling silky smooth.
• As a body scrub. Mix a dollop of the 3-in-1 with a bit of sugar and use as an exfoliating body scrub for a mini spa session at home.

 

Mom and Baby Friendly Uses for Coconut Oil

If you have a tub of virgin coconut oil (look for organic!), you can use it:

• Instead of diaper rash cream (those antibacterial and antifungal properties really make coconut oil an ideal solution!
• As a post-bath moisturizer. Use it sparingly, because a little goes a long way.
• Instead of cuticle oil. Not that you shouldn't make time for trips to the nail salon, but coconut oil can help keep your nails looking good in between visits.
• To moisturize chapped lips. You can apply straight coconut oil, or, if you’re feeling crafty, whip up a batch of your very own lip balm.
• Instead of using toothpaste, try oil pulling.  It’s simple and effective. Learn more here.
• Use it to fight back against cellulite. This massage technique sounds both relaxing and beneficial.
• As part of an insect-banishing cream. Make your own with this easy recipe.

Now, let’s hop on over to the kitchen. Coconut oil is a great high-heat cooking oil and works well as an oil replacement when baking, too. Plus, it’s so good for you that everything you make with it feels a little bit healthier (even if it’s cookies that you’re making).

 

If you want to give cooking and baking with coconut oil a try, here are ten of our favorite, kid-friendly recipes:

• Coconut oil popcorn
• No-bake cookies
• Coconut oil biscuits
• Coconut oil smoothie
• Whole wheat banana muffins
• Peanut butter cookies
• Coconut oil pancakes
• Chewy no-bake granola bars
• Coconut oil Chex mix

 

When you pick up that jar of coconut oil, know that it is good for your overall health. The specific benefits of coconut oil are still being discovered and most likely extend far beyond what we know for sure.

Bringing coconut oil into your home can be an amazing gift to your family-- one that provides benefits in both the short- and long-term.

What are your favorite uses for coconut oil? Share them with us in the comments below.

* Check with your pediatrician before using coconut oil on your baby. Especially when applying it to the face, be careful to use it sparingly and only during times when baby is supervised.

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