Coconut Oil and Inflammation

Coconut oil has many beneficial uses, one of which is its anti-inflammatory properties. The lauric acid found in coconut oil is what provides the anti-inflammatory benefits according to research. I use coconut oil for many things such as baking, frying and as a moisturizer but it was by chance that I found its benefits as a pain reducer. I have been dealing with some soreness in my hands recently – probably a touch of arthritis in my thumb area – and after using coconut oil as a moisturizer I found that my hand pain subsided a bit. I’m attributing this to the topical application to the thumb area and what I feel is anti-inflammatory benefits of coconut oil. Could I be way off base? Sure, but it’s certainly worth giving it a try for sore muscles and joint inflammation in lieu of NSAIDS, prescription meds or suffering through the discomfort.

I will recommend that you stay consistent with the application (you don’t need much) and apply the oil two to three times a day for a week and see if there is any noticeable difference. I also strongly recommend buying a high quality like Carrington Farms which I get at Costco. There are other brands out there of course, just find one that is unrefined organic extra virgin coconut oil and certified organic.