Before I let you in on this top secret ingredient, you must know it has taken me a WHOLE YEAR to let this secret out. Shelley has been bugging reminding me to post this for 1 whole year! I finally broke. Here is my little secret:
Coconut Oil!
There are many people out there that claim that this is some sort of miracle food. They talk about how it is a good fat instead of a bad fat, it has healing properties, it helps your metabolism…all sorts of claims. There are even whole books written about it. Just google coconut oil…you will be surprised at what you find, at least I was.
I am not a nutritionist and don’t claim anything except that I am in love with the stuff. I’m telling you it is up there with oreos, this is big time! I never would have guessed all the things I would use this versatile oil for! Let me share a few of my favorites (in no particular order).
#1 Lotion
I use coconut oil instead of lotion. It hydrates perfectly and it has a slight coconut scent.
#2 Hair Fly Aways be gone
Just a very small amount tames the wild flyers.
#3 Make-up remover
Doesn’t sting your eyes and is all natural.
#4 Diaper Rash
Spread a little on, it helps for minor diaper rash.
#5 Eating
The slight coconut flavor makes ANYTHING you use it in taste better, in my opinion. My husband does not agree, he doesn’t like it in his eggs, but most everything – I even liked it in eggs.:) I substitute coconut oil for oil and butter in so many recipes with WONDERFUL results. My favorite?
Rice Krispie Treats.
If you don’t try it for any other suggestion, please, just try it in rice krispies. Substitute it straight across for the butter. You will thank me. When I bring these somewhere and others try them, people are amazed and can’t figure out why they are the best rice krispies they have ever had. Alison, back me up here.
Another favorite is on toast. Toast your bread and while it is still hot, spread a little coconut oil on so it melts while you are spreading, then sprinkle with a cinnamon sugar mixture…YUM. Even better, get those tortillas from CostCo – the ones that are pre-made but you cook – cook one and then put a little coconut oil on, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar, and broil – tastes like a churro. Such a yummy and easy treat.
Where to get coconut oil?
I tried buying it at all of my local supermarkets and they have it, but they charge an arm and a leg for it. My favorite brand I have tried is Nutiva. The best price I have found is here on Amazon. I throw this in my cart whenever I need something extra to hit the $25.00 for free shipping because I go through it like crazy! You can get an even better deal if you sign up for subscribe and save.
While we are on the Amazon subject, can I just tell you how much I LOVE Amazon! I did most of my Christmas shopping on it last year and I have almost finished Christmas gifts for this year. I didn’t have to fight any crowds, drag kids around, it comes right to my door – and they usually beat any price I can get in town anyway…it rocks – try it out, again you will thank me. PLUS, you can get a FREE 30 day trial of AMAZON PRIME – free 2 day shipping, free instant videos, free downloads/music, special savings….
**Update: This post was written a few years ago, before coconut oil was more main stream. I have since found Kirkland Brand Coconut oil at Costco for a good price, but I still like Nutiva better.**
I will leave you with this amazing recipe using coconut oil to get you started. My mom adapted it from Paula Deen’s recipe here.
Delicious!
Steph @ AnnoyinglyDomestic says
I, too, am a huge coconut oil freak. It has been wonderful for our family and my personal experience with it shows that it really does offer a “boost” for my thyroid (totally wasn’t expecting that!). I was highly skeptical of the claimed benefits years ago when I started taking it, but it has shown to be quite impressive. I have a gallon tub of Nutiva in my pantry, we love it so much. LOL
I love it in smoothies and to scramble eggs with. Even though people recommend not cooking with it on high heat, it makes the most *amazing* brown crust on any meat you may be browning (great for cooking steak in!). My boys love it floated on top of some sleepytime tea. I also love it in skin and hair care, but I’m most thankful for it in our diets.
.-= Steph @ AnnoyinglyDomestic´s last blog ..Art for Stress Reduction Maybe =-.
Shelley says
Thank you for finally posting this Missy! What else do you use it in? Favorite baking stuff… I want to hear all of them…. I can’t wait to get some and use it. 🙂 Thanks missy.
Missy says
cookies, brownies, pancakes…yummy in pancakes, waffles, muffins, cakes, banana bread – pretty much any baked good. I use it for cooking most anything but it is especially great for baked goods because of it’s slight coconut flavor.
Jules says
Shelley, in our house we <3 to pop popcorn with it. Just melt some at the bottom of the pan, put in the kernals, put on the lid and let it pop away– then add Real salt. We also use it when we cook our chicken and fish on the stovetop. They even have a coconut butter that you can get at the co-op that is fun to add to steel cut oats or melt slightly and eat with apples. If you want to try something really divine, get the coconut butter with cacao. HEAVENLY!!
Kim says
Does it make things taste like coconut though??? I do not like coconut, so even with health benefits, I don’t want to risk that taste in other baked goods…
Missy says
This kind does have a slight coconut flavor but there is also a kind (processed more) that does not have any flavor so you could try that.
Kari says
I love it too. It’s super good in homemade waffles (kids don’t like it as much) I used the slightly more refined (but still good for you) neutral tasting oil for all that i don’t want a slight taste too. The coconut flavor oil is good melted in coffee or hot chocolate ( teaspoon). It’s not greasy tasting but your lips do get soft…It totally revs my metabolism. It’s a medium chain fatty acid whose energy is utilized not stored as fat. What’s not to love? And the best secret ingredient of all? chocolate chip cookies! Trader Joes uses coconut in those super yummy cookies they sell, it’s just too good so put it in yours. Great on skin too. Love it 😉
brenda says
interesting. I think I am going to have to give it a try!
.-= brenda´s last blog ..Christmas Cards =-.
pennymck says
Do you replace it for butter or oil or both? Just curious.
Missy says
If the recipe calls for butter or oil, I use coconut oil instead.
Lauren says
Sorry if this is a dumb question – but can are you able to take coconut oil without using it to cook with? Or can you only cook with it?
I’m really intrigued and I think I’m going to buy some today!!
.-= Lauren´s last blog ..Project 2 – Family Room =-.
Lauren says
Sorry if this is a dumb question – but can are you able to take coconut oil (like a dietary supplement or vitamin) without using it to cook with? Or can you only cook with it?
I’m really intrigued and I think I’m going to buy some today!!
Missy says
Yes. I’ve read about people adding it to their morning smoothie for this reason, but I am not a nutritionist and have no idea how much to tell you to take. Try to google it or ask your doctor.
leahloo says
YEA! I am so glad you posted this! I’ve been using it for years as my “windex” (go buy My Big Fat Greek Wedding if you don’t get this. trust me.) I love it because it is anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal!!! WOW.
It is also the ONLY thing that has been able to completely get rid of the eczema that I have had since childhood.
My coconut oil trick is to mix it with salt or sugar and use it as a body scrub. Beautiful, healthy, hydrated skin!
Jenn S. says
Leahloo, do you put it straight onto your eczema? I have a spot of my palm that I can’t get rid of & am really wanting to try it!
I too use it to make a great scrub! I mix it with raw sugar & coffee. Absolutely THE best after-shaving shower scrub for baby soft skin. And I come out of the shower smelling like german chocolate cake! Hooray!!
Sara says
Yum Yum Yum! Thank you so much for all the recipes and ideas! We have the exact same coconut oil (I also LOVE Amazon). We use it for making homemade popcorn in a whirlypop. Seriously- best best best best best popcorn ever!!! I will never go back to microwave popcorn again.
Missy says
I forgot to mention popcorn! I am with you totally – even with the whirlypop! My friend gave me one last year and I am LOVING it – so so much better than microwave – and without all the extra junk they throw in those things.:) Great minds think alike, right?
Jennifer says
Have you tried oil pulling?
Michelle says
So is coconut oil a liquid or a solid?? I noted that the above recipe calls for melted coconut oil. I think anything natural is great to add to my family’s diet!!
Thanks!
.-= Michelle´s last blog ..we love happy hour =-.
Jules says
It depends on the temperature you store it at. I think it changes in the 70 degree range. In the summer, if you leave it out on the cupboard, it will easily go to more of a liquid form. In the wintertime though, it is definitely in the solid state in your cupboard.
Cindy says
Just curious–do you melt it on the stovetop or in the microwave? I have some and used it only with popcorn so far because I wasn’t certain. Plus, it is such a solid, I wasn’t sure how to add it for cookies, etc.
Jules says
I thought of a couple of other uses that we have used coconut oil for as well. I have my little guy wear it as a deodorant occasionally. Afterall, when you hit 4th grade, things can get a little stinky! It’s the bacteria that is causing the smell and this stuff is anti-bacterial. I’m a little cautious about putting the real deal deodorant (most of which contain aluminum and other bad for you ingredients) on a little boy who’s barely over 60 lbs. and he doesn’t care when I make the suggestion to put on his “deodorant”. To him it beats the smell of his dad’s Tom’s Deodorant. I have even made deodorant for the hubby before with this stuff by adding baking soda and corn starch to it and mixing it together. When Mas had a blocked intestine, we were told by his nutritional therapist to rub the coconut oil onto his belly/intestine area along with the epsom salt bath (he was also put on a probiotic as well). Worked like a charm!
Missy says
I read about people using for deodorant but haven’t tried it, yet. I will have to give it a go.
Nesleirbag says
Wow, Missy, I am so glad you posted about coconut oil! You have been singing its praises for a while, and you have converted me. I think the flavor in the baked goods I have tried it in is very subtle – one of those things that when you taste it the baked goods, you say, “what is that?” (little shout out to Rachel Ray) and I think gives a deeper flavor to whatever it is in.
That cake, which I have made numerous times without, then with coconut oil, IS even more delicious with coconut oil!
Kendra says
I too LOVE LOVE Coconut oil!!! I am totally trying it in rice krispies, Thanks for the tip!
Our company helps support a non-profit organization called BasaBody. (www.basabody.com), our ex-CEO moved to Kenya and helps women – you can read the story here (http://www.basabody.com/index.php/story)…one of the companies is called Coast Coconut Farms (http://www.coastcoconutfarms.co.ke/)- you should look into their coconut oil as it helps those women in Kenya and their communities!
It is a bit more expensive than the Amazon stuff, but it can help change lives…
.-= Kendra´s last blog ..Christmas Shopping Online =-.
Jessica P says
I love that you just posted about coconut oil! I am in love with the stuf as well! It’s the only thing I use as a facial moisturizer and never ever have a problem with zits, and I love rubbing in my pregnant belly.. No stretch marks so far for me 🙂 I also like using it on my kids’ skin as it is completely purr and natural and works great on their skin. I also use it in so much of my cooking. When a recipe calls for vegetable oil I almost always substitute coconut oil. I use it for frying as well, especially when the temp won’t be above 350 degrees. Like someone else mentioned the medium chain fatty acids that make up coconut oil are metabolized differently than other fats. Coconut oil is burned quickly rather than being sent to your stomach as more belly fat. I have also noticed a metabolism boost. Someone asked about just taking coconut oil directly tather than cooking with it.. Ive done this as well, especially when I’m sick or just about to head to the gym. I’ll just melt down a tablespoon of it and add it to a little shot of juice or kiefer abd drink it quick. When you use it on your skin it is absorbed into your bloodstream that way too. Ive read a few books on coconut oil, including the one pictured in this post, and it’s been really interesting to learn the benefits of this wonderful oil. As you can tell, I’m a raving fan!! I’m excited to try out some rice krispie treats with it!
Heather - Chickabug says
This is ALL new to me and I’m running out to buy some tomorrow! (Seriously!! I’m so excited to try it!) : )
.-= Heather – Chickabug´s last blog ..Little blue kite party for baby Indigo =-.
Teresa Novak says
You can make Magic Shell like ice cream topping by melting chocolate and coconut oil together and then just drizzling it over your ice cream So good, and you can use any kind of chocolate you like–for me it’s always dark chocolate. 🙂
Missy says
I am so trying this! Dark for me, too!
Julie @ Practically Spent says
Oh my gosh ~ yes, yes and yes! (You’re using only the organic, extra virgin, right?) It makes the best pancakes ever (use the oil in the pan as well). It’s amazing in coffee, with peanut butter on toast, in oatmeal….anything, really. Try this one: HEATED milk, pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice, stevia/agave and coconut oil. I just finished a huge mug of it. 🙂
.-= Julie @ Practically Spent´s last blog ..Garbage Bag Witch =-.
jen doyle says
This sounds great to me and I would love to try it. I’m wondering if anyone has info about coconut oil and high cholestrol. I’ve read it should be avoided by those with high bad cholestrol levels, anyone have experience with this?
Ashley says
The whole cholesterol situation is an interesting study. Most MD’s will state that because of it’s saturated fat that it is bad for you, but studies show that including coconut oil in your diet can actually lower your bad cholesterol. Unfortunately most MD’s are not trained sufficiently in health and nutrition…they only know what they are taught. You really have to dig to learn. Think about it….compare vegetable, and canola oils etc and how they are processed high heat…. Therefore making the oil rancid. In America’s history the coconut and other tropical fruit oils started to lose popularity when vegetable oils and other highly processed oils and shortenings were being invented. So who invented coconuts anyways, and how are all of those people on the island surviving without the low fat canola??? Research it out, don’t take my word. The only way to take control of your health is to take it on and research yourself and don’t trust anyone but your own instincts…. After all it is your body. 🙂
Chelley Black says
Did you know you can save another 15% with Amazon’s Subscribe and Save? It’s a great program! You can delay or cancel shipments at anytime, so you never get stuff you don’t need.
Lara says
mmm i love coconut oil. This is all i use on my baby’s skin. And mine. The switch to this stuff cured my little boys eczema. It has some really great properties. I’m definitely a fan!
.-= Lara´s last blog ..Happy Halloween =-.
Mindy says
Okay Missy I must admit I’ve been a major skeptic of your coconut oil obsession, but after reading all of these comments I think I’d better try some. The metabolism boost was pretty much what sealed the deal for me. Anything to get rid of this baby weight. 🙂 Great post!
Deborah says
Ever seen the old SNL skit “It’s a dessert topping; it’s a floor wax!” This is what my husband says to me whenever I sing the praises of coconut oil. Here’s the clip 🙂 http://www.hulu.com/watch/61320/saturday-night-live-shimmer-floor-wax
Amy says
Gotta love SNL 🙂 Awesome!
Kay says
Where have I been? I’ve never heard of this (except when reading ingredient lists on labels.) I’m headed to amazon . . .
.-= Kay´s last blog ..Creamy Orange Jello Salad =-.
Ann-Marie says
You sold me on it. Just bought some 🙂
Stephanie says
I’ve been using coconut oil FOREVER and, yes, I can vouch for all of the miracle properties you say it has!
Gina says
I have never cooked with it – but will have to try the Rice Krispy Treats!! I have had wonderful results using it as a diaper cream and when I was nursing my son it was great for the dry skin you get on your breasts – best part is that is safe to nurse your baby after you apply it – great stuff!!
Julie says
We use it in place of butter when making mac and cheese! My kids LOVE it!!!
Amy H. says
I am so glad I read this!! I know my husband will make fun of me and quote My Big Fat Greek Wedding and all the ways they use Windex, but I can take it! I am so excited to try it out on and in so many things. Thanks Missy and thanks ladies for all of the fantastic info.
Donna says
I use that same brand and love it!
Lisa N. says
We love coconut oil too. I use it as a face and body moisturizer, to clear up acne, to clear up some skin conditions, for baking and cooking, and the list goes on. It’s also known for clearing up eczema and dandruff. It seriously is like “windex” as a couple of people have said. It has so many uses.
I was buying it on amazon (like pictured above), until my father showed me a better price. It is a gallon bucket, but it lasts for 2-3 years without going rancid. So it is definitely cheaper than buying it on Amazon if you use a lot of it.
Here’s the link. http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/bulkoil/a-c.html
Just scroll to the bottom and there are 2 different options for coconut oil. The cold pressed/unrefined is the better of the two and less processed.
Here’s a link about coconut oil health benefits that will answer some of the above questions if anyone is interested.
http://www.greensmoothiegirl.com/robyn-recommendations/coconut-oil/coconut-oil-health-benefits/
Cindy K says
ooo! got into this a year ago after reading Babycakes NYC – they bake with it to keep things dairy free. I’m gluten, dairy and refined sugar free, and this oil has saved my baking butt! Also good as a toothpaste with mint and baking soda!
Mary Jane says
Hey, in the recipe you posted the ingredients listed vanilla yogurt, but in the directions it lists sour cream. Which is it?
Missy says
You could use either one. The original recipe called for sour cream, but when my Mom made it, she used vanilla yogurt instead. There is a slight difference in taste (vanilla yogurt a bit sweeter), but either one tastes great! Sorry about the confusion.:)
Silvia Bradshaw says
Of course…the one thing I am allergic too :o( Well, the rest of the family isn’t though….guess they’ll have to be the gunea pigs :o)
Amanda E says
Coconut Oil is the best! I work for a company that has a little sub-company called Basa Body. It sells a bunch of wonderful coconut oil products. They just came out with a new skin care line. My favorite is the lotion. I’ve never had such a great lotion before.It’s amazing stuff. You can also purchase gallon sized tubs of the oil for cooking. A friend of mine makes AMAZING coconut shrimp with it.
So Missy, I’m totally with ya on the love for coconut oil. If you’re interested check out http://www.basabody.com or look them up on facebook.
Tish says
Your cake sound great. Was going to make it but had one question. In the directions it talks about sour cream. There is no sour cream amount in the ingredient list. How much does it call for?
Missy says
sorry about the confusion, we used vanilla yogurt instead of sour cream and I forgot to change it in the instructions. Either one tastes great!
Catrina says
I love it, too!!!!
BTW, how much do you use(sub) in a rice krispies recipe?
Missy says
I just sub the same amount of coc oil for the butter.
Carrie Hamm says
The best thing is is’t Organic!!!!
Carrie Hamm says
The best thing is it’s Organic!!!!
Renae W. says
I have just started learning about and using coconut oil. The egg tip was great, by the way, and I cannot wait to use it in my hot tea. I also mix it with baking soda to use as a facial moisturizing scrub and with sugar as a hand/body scrub. Another coconut related tip…drink coconut water to prevent dehydration when someone in your family is sick. It is MUCH healthier than soda or sports drinks and has a lot of potassium in it. God bless!
Chris A. says
I just had to come back here to tell you that I got the book The Coconut Oil Miracle from the library and have been reading it. I ordered the oil from Amazon (got 2 54oz jars for $33.97 after subscribing, making it 37 cents an ounce). My husband is sold on it, my Mom had me order some for her and she is sold on it! The reason I told my Mom about it is because she has a little dog that the vets have been telling her has allergies and she keeps breaking out with bumps and scratching constantly. She is either on an antibiotic or taking steroids all the time. Since coconut oil is an antibacterial I thought if she fed it to her and rubbed it on the bumps that it might help her. Knock on wood, so far it is helping her! I love it as a lotion and lip balm. We’ve used it in rice in place of butter, have mixed it with butter to put on baked potatoes, made pancakes with it and also used it in oatmeal. I can’t wait to try your cake recipe!
Thanks so much for posting about it!
Melisa says
I had to add my two cents in here. I love coconut oil as well, but a word from someone who made this mistake: If you are going to start using it as a supplement, or on toast, in tea etc, start slowly with one teaspoon a day and work up to the recommended 3 tablespoons a day. I was up on my first night with severe stomach cramps sitting on the toilet because I couldn’t leave the bathroom! (Sorry if tmi!)
cass says
coconut oil is hight in saturated fatty acids. it is one of the very few plant oils is saturated (saturated fats are usually solid at room temperature). Coconut oil IS tasty, but if you want healthy i’d pic something that would higher your HDLs (take cholesterol out of arteries) and lower your LDLs (put cholesterol in arteries): flaxseed or canola oil 🙂
Ann says
Nope that’s not correct. Coconut oil is a medium chain fat and it’s better at reducing cholestrol because of that fact. I think you probably need to do more research on it because it’s actually much better for you than canola oil (which has been heat processed) or flax seed oil. Here’s just one example…
“There is a misconception spread among many people that coconut oil is not good for the heart. This is because it contains a large quantity of saturated fats. However, coconut oil is beneficial for the heart. It contains about 50% lauric acid, which helps in preventing various heart problems including high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. The saturated fats present in coconut oil are not harmful as it happens in case of other vegetables oils. It does not lead to increase in LDL levels. It also reduces the incidence of injury in arteries and therefore helps in preventing atherosclerosis.”
http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-oils/organic-coconut-oil/health-benefits-of-coconut-oil.html
Sharon says
Canola Oil is really bad! It’s seeds are “Round-Up ready” and you should NEVER use it unless you want to mainline pesticides. Ann is correct abt the medium chain fatty acids and its benefits.
Sharon
Amy says
So you can substitute this for olive oil too right? Looks interesting, but I think I’ll wait til I have something else to order from Amazon too. (Shouldn’t take too long ;-))
Shannon says
I also love using coconut oil! Its is such great stuff!
Have you ever made your own magic shell with it? You know….the hard topping that you put on ice cream! Its so easy and SO yummy!
You put about 1/2 cup of oil into a microwave bowl and then 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (semi sweet or milk choc., either are good!) and microwave for 1 1/2 mins. Stir. The oil gets so hot that it melts the chocolate. You may need to put it in a little longer depending on your microwave though. Then I just put in a canning jar and store (not in the fridge). Since the oil hardens when it gets cold, it will harden right away when its on the ice cream. This is always a huge hit whenever I bring it somewhere!
You can also add a little vanilla if you want.
Belinda says
Best not to microwave coconut oil…it changes the nutritive properties of it! Microwaving does that to most anyhing.
Shannon says
oh, and it makes the BEST popcorn! If you use a stove popper, like a whirlie pop just throw some coconut oil in and your popcorn kernals and you will have the best popcorn ever! If you want kettle corn then use coconut oil and a few TBS of sugar and then add the popcorn….its delish!
Missy says
I can attest to this one – so good!
Janie says
I add a few tbs to my cloth wipes container (with some melaleuca oil and warm water) and my coffee/hot chocolate. I’m excited to try it as a makeup remover. The part I have trouble with is in cold drinks, like smoothies. It always solidifies into little oily clumps, even after I use the blender. I haven’t figured the trick with that yet. Help please!
Oh, and try cooking shrimp in it! Divine!!!
Missy says
ooh! coconut shrimp – I am so trying that! I am not sure what to do about the cold drinks, I guess I haven’t tried that yet.
Susan @ sweetimaginations says
I know the blending secret! Warm the oil just a bit until liquid then as the blender is blending and you are almost finished with your smoothie fixin’, drizzle it in through the top and it will blend in nicely!
Heather says
oh…I never thought to use it as a makeup remover. Thanks!
Sue says
I bought the book and several jars of the oil from Amazon.. Love it! I have THE most finicky skin and the coconut oil has really done the trick.. I no longer have to use the steroid cream. For years I have gone back to basics with olive oil and butter so I am glad to add the coconut oil to my diet.. Cant wait to try some coconut milk recipes too.. Thank you so much Missy.
'Becca says
I love the way coconut oil greases baking pans! It stays where you put it (unlike liquid oil) and doesn’t burn (unlike butter) and the cake or bread just pops right out!
It is a scrumptious topping for a hot slice of Raisin Bran Bread.
I substituted it for shortening in a yellow cake recipe, and it made a yummy cake with a mild, natural, coconut-vanilla flavor. Compared to the time I tried making that cake with butter, it was much fluffier and tastier.
Angela says
Thank you for this tip! We use Coconut Oil instead of butter and as a cooking oil/suppliment. I am actually losing weight on my diet with a tablespoon added per day. We cook with it, use it anywhere we’d use butter, Yum up smoothies, melt it with cocoa powder to make candy. If we did not consume it so fast, I might use it on my body and hair. I have an inferior one I use on my skin and might be able to afford to switch. We use Spectrum’s cold pressed coconut oil, and have tried Tropical Traditions which is too sweet and coconutty for savory meals for us, but we use that one for sweet things-smoothies, candy etc. I prefer coconut oil in a glass jar, but this looks like something to try.
Shauna says
I completely agree and have been touting it for years! Coconut oil with Peanut Butter on toast – DELISH! Great for dry skin, acne prone skin, damaged hair…Put a dollop in your smoothies too – yumm!
Shauna says
I LOOOVe Coconut oil and have been touting it’s benefits for years! coconut oil with Peanut butter on toast is delish! Re: the saturated fats – do a little research on your own too. I have found a lot of information that states its benefits as it relates to cholesterol, heart disease, etc. You will find that there is a misconception spread among many people that coconut oil is not good for the heart. This is because it contains a large quantity of saturated fats. However, coconut oil is beneficial for the heart. It contains about 50% lauric acid, which helps in preventing various heart problems including high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. The saturated fats present in coconut oil are not harmful as it happens in case of other vegetables oils. It does not lead to increase in LDL levels. It also reduces the incidence of injury in arteries and therefore helps in preventing atherosclerosis.
Rebecca says
What happened??? I tried to make rice crispy treats and it was so hard you cannot even bight into them!!!! Help me!!!
Missy says
I have had that problem before, even with butter and finally figured out I cooked the marshmallows too long. Try melting them ver slowly on low heat and just before the last mallow melts, turn the heat off and stir in the mallows. That worked for me, anyway. 😉
Stephanie says
If anyone is still interested in finding coconut oil, Mountain Rose Herbs (google it) sells organic virgin coconut oil in 1 gallon containers. It’s a lot of money all at once, but way cheaper than by the jar.
Stephanie says
One if my favorite ways to use coconut oil is in piecrust in place of the shortening. It makes a light crispy delicious crust. I usually don’t eat all my crust with other pies, but with this, I wil eat the crumbs out if the pan.
Sandy says
I just had to get on the bandwagon with the coconut oil. I LOVE this stuff and have used it for years as a L&D nurse to help stretch that certain area (wink, wink)and currently in an OB office which I tell everyone to use in the “hu ha” area 🙂 for dryness & irritation. WORKS EVERY TIME!
mountain girl heidi says
This might be TMI, but my friend says she uses coconut oil as a personal lubricant, as water based ones don’t work as well for her. She said it’s helped keep infections at bay. She suggested it for other sexual activities. I haven’t tried it yet, but it’s more because I never remember to bring my jar of oil into the bedroom….
Nichole says
I have used this for adult activities, I’m very prone to UTI’s and this is a good, organic way to keep the friction down. Keep in mind IT IS AN OIL which means it WILL degrade condoms. If that’s not a concern, then I highly recommend it. I’ve loved it. PERSONAL PREFERENCE: I keep two separate jars, one for cooking and one of the more refined cosmetic-grade jars for personal use.
Cristi says
I have this in my cupboard and I have hardly touched it because it’s cost was like gold- so thank you for the Amazon tip…I didn’t even realize all the amazing recipes I could be using it for!! What am I waiting for…Can’t wait to try the recipe!
Michelle R says
Oh my goodness….this sounds marvelous!! I had to come here from your other post about homemade playdough….comparable to oreos….OH DEAR!!!! It MUST be fantastic!! Thanks for sharing your “secret”
Hugs,
Michelle
KATHY says
I use EVCO when I get burns in the kitchen. I rub it on and the results are no blister, pain and no scarring. I read about taking a spoonful every morning and swishing it in your mouth as soon as you wake up. It removes toxins from your body, DON’T swallow the swished EVCO, it is full of toxins that have accumulated through the night in your body. Spit it out after swishing. It removes tooth decay, tightens your teeth from the swishing action and turns your teeth white. I love this stuff!!
Tara says
I love this stuff . I just recently discovered it in the past year,
.we use coconut oil baking soda and a cornstarch mix for deoderant and it works better than any deoderant ive ever used.
rani says
Just ordered me up some coconut oil! Thanks for the hook up!
Marian says
We love coconut oil as well – you’ve given me some good ideas. If you would like to use coconut oil that doesn’t taste like coconut (like to saute veggies for soup or something) go to tropicaltraditions.com and get their expeller pressed coconut oil. tropicaltraditions.com/expeller-pressed_coconut_oil.htm I buy it by the gallon container and keep a jar of it by the stove. You can cook eggs without the flavor :). Another thing they have which is delicious is the coconut cream…so delicious and coconut peanut butter (when they get it back in stock)! Have fun!
Cori says
So, I’ve just ordered my jar of coconut oil and I’m REALLY looking forward to using it! But here’s my question: what about the affects on your “bad” cholesterol levels?? The saturated fat content is much higher than that of olive oil, canola oil, even butter!
What are your thoughts on this?? Just trying to get a good “feel” for the stuff 🙂
Lois says
Thanks for the tip on the brand to get for my first try. I would like to try the recipe you shared. The ingredients list says 1 cup vanilla yogurt but the instructions says sour cream. Just wanted to check which one it was. Thanks!
Missy says
sorry about the confusion – either one would work – I think the original recipe called for sour cream but I only had vanilla yogurt in my fridge so that is what I used.
Lindsey says
Hey! I am a Nutrition and Dietetics major, and I just want to say to be careful about consuming coconut oil. While it does have some great qualities, it is extremely high in saturated fat. So just be careful not to over-consume. The best oil out there is olive oil – there is a lot of monounsaturated fatty acids that contribute to heart health and other health benefits. Saturated fat is bad for cholesterol, waistline and more. Sorry if this sounds snobby, but I felt it was worth mentioning!
Ashley says
Coconut oil has medium chain fatty acids that are metabolized differently than other fats, they are transported to the liver for energy and not stored like other saturated fats. It has benefits as it relates to cholesterol, heart disease, etc it all depends more with the prescription with these illnesses. Coconut oil is beneficial for the heart. It contains about 50% lauric acid, which helps in preventing various heart problems including high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. The saturated fats present in coconut oil are not harmful as it happens in case of other vegetables oils. It does not lead to increase in LDL levels. It also reduces the incidence of injury in arteries and therefore helps in preventing atherosclerosis
Anitra says
It is also great for your teeth. You can gargle just a finger tip and it helps pull the junk out from between your teeth and naturally strengthens them and whitens them!
Ashley says
Another good thing i have tried with my 18 month old daughter is not only using it as diaper rash cream and eczema but also yeast infection, my daughter has had a few, but using coconut oil the last 2 times has cleared it up each time.
Vicki says
I would love to try these idea out and signed up for the $10 discount which allowed me to get the oil for free, but I am wondering if there is a code for free shipping maybe? I am kind of skeptical about paying $5 shipping for something I don’t NEED but might like. TIA!
Vicki
Joni says
I mix it with baking soda to wash and moisturizer my face. I have also been using it as a mouthwash called oil pulling you swish it in your mouth for 30 minutes and then spit it in the toilet and it is supposed to cleanse and detox.
Heather says
When using it as a lotion or diaper cream or any other cosmetic application, how do you apply it? I had a hard time controlling it after I melted it by sticking the jar in a sink full of hot water.
Missy says
I just keep it a solid, dig some out and warm it in my hands then rub it on.
Rachael says
Trader Joes has awesome, cheap coconut oil for under $6 bucks. I love it and use it for everything from eating to lotion. It’s like duct tape–fixes anything.
Gwen says
Costco now sells this in a HUGE Container at a real bargain.
Natalie says
You can also get coconut oil from Trader Joe’s!
Marta Nelson says
The Nutiva Coconut oil is much cheaper at Costco! I used to have mine auto-shipped thru Amazon (I LOVE Amazon too!) and the very lowest price I could get (auto-ship, no shipping fee) was still almost 20% more ounce for ounce than Costco.
Love your site!
wendy says
thanx so much!!! I’m going there today!!! 8)
Ams says
in warmer areas can coconut oil beneficial for skin?
Heather says
I live in Texas and I have loved using it as a face wash/moisturizer.
Tammy says
The Nutiva 78 oz jar (2 qt 14 fl oz)is $21.99 at my local Utah Costco,which is 28 cents per ounce. I only have to pay local sales tax – no shipping. I love this stuff!! Thanks for sharing more ways to use this!
wendy says
hi there – I am just trying to order the coconut oil with the $10 off using the link here. It just sends me to Vitacost site, but I don’t see a promo code or any other place to get it. Can u help me??
thanx…wendy
christine says
This may be a dumb question but if you are using the coconut oil as a substitute for butter or oil, do you use the same amount of the coconut oil as you would the butter or oil?
Missy says
Yes – I use the same amount of coconut that it calls for butter or oil
Melanie G says
I’m also a huge fan of coconut oil, and I’m always looking for more ways to use it so I love your posts about it. I haven’t tried the brand you recommend, but I have tried Trader Joe’s virgin organic coconut oil, and at $5 or $6/ a 16oz jar (I forget what they charge) and no cost for shipping, its such a steal! I love the taste, and it is cold-pressed without using any chemicals! If you have a TJ’s nearby, get it! I always feel the need to spread the word when I read about some of the crazy prices some people pay.
Missy says
You are killing me! I love Trader Joe’s – it is a must stop any time I travel close to one. Rumor has it that it is coming to Boise, but I will have to see it to believe it. 🙂 Thanks for the tip – I will have to try their coconut oil next time I am close to one!
Elaine Stoub says
Curious – the calories in coconut oil seem very high – no mention made of that fact – what about that?
Jamie H says
I buy the Nutiva brand at Costco- the price is amazing (and as with everything at Costco, it’s HUGE!). I will have to try it in Rice Crispies. I had never thought of it
Laurie Ringenberg says
You can by the Nutiva coconut Oil at Costco for $10.00
Nikala says
I love coconut oil too! And you can get 72oz (or maybe it’s 78oz? I forget!) at Costco for $20.50! KILLER deal!
Dan says
Thanks, Missy! This is very helpful.. Our team has been really into coconut oil for some time as well.. Do you know of any great coconut oil-based organic shampoos? We’d love to feature a product that offers similar benefits to raw coconut oil without the hassle.
maquillage yeux bleus says
You can make Magic Shell like ice cream topping by melting chocolate and coconut oil together and then just drizzling it over your ice cream So good, and you can use any kind of chocolate you like–for me it’s always dark chocolate. 🙂
Susan says
Try it to sub for half the butter in brownies and unscented for popcorn…it was used for ages in movie theater popcorn until the soy industry villianized it in order to increase their market share.
Erin says
Works AMAZINGLY for craddle cap. Wash little ones hair with it, comb, and then rewash hair with shampoo.