Abstract

Coconut oil – A Review of Potential applications

Hygeia.J.D.Med.7 (2) October 2015; 34-41

Shijna Kappally, Arun Shirwaikar and Annie Shirwaikar*

College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman,UAE

Corresponding author email: dr.annie@gmu.ac.ae ; shirwaikarannie@gmail.com

Coconut oil is an edible oil obtained from the kernel of harvested mature coconuts of the coconut palm .In recent years this oil has attained superstardom in the health food world. Celebrities are adopting its use, nutritionists advocating it, and patients acclaiming its many virtues. A Number of health benefits have been attributed to this oil. These include benefits in skin care, hair care, stress relief, weight loss and cholesterol level maintenance, immunomodulatory effects, cardiovascular uses,and more recently in Alzheimer’s disease . However for several years, coconut oil was demonized and consumers were made to believe that coconut oil is deleterious to health as it would block the arteries and cause heart disease. The tide has turned and in recent times recognition of the positive health effects of coconut oils have emerged stronger. The use of coconut oil, especially virgin coconut oil is in vogue,though some people still remain skeptical. This article attempts to scientifically review the therapeutic benefits of   this oil. 

Key words: coconut oil, Applications

Article citation 

Shijna Kappally, Arun Shirwaikar and Annie Shirwaikar. Coconut oil – a review of potential applications. Hygeia.J.D.Med.7 (2) October 2015; 34-41 Availablefrom http: //www.hygeiajournal.com / Article ID-Hygeia.J.D.Med/149/15.     DOI: 10.15254/H.J.D.Med.7.2015.149.