Household uses for coconut oil

In testing for rancidity, coconut oil that had been kept at room temperature for a year showed no evidence of spoiling.

by Joanne Henning Tedesco — 

We know that coconut oil is ideal for cooking and baking, as it can withstand higher temperatures than other cooking oils. Also, coconut oil does not spoil. In testing for rancidity, coconut oil that had been kept at room temperature for a year showed no evidence of spoiling.

Coconut oil has been used as a dietary and beauty staple for many generations. However, it has many other uses, including first-aid treatments and even a number of household tasks that are relegated to more costly and potentially toxic alternatives. Following are some practical household uses for coconut oil:

• Clean, condition and sanitize your wood cutting board.
• Moisturize and soften leather goods, as you would with store-bought leather conditioners.
• Lubricate any squeaky hinges or sticky mechanisms.
• Lubricate guitar strings.
• Clean soap scum from the shower by using a small amount of coconut oil on a damp cloth. Spray the area with white vinegar and wipe dry with a lint-free cloth.
• Clean your hands and paint brushes after using oil-based paints.
• Clean and sanitize your mouth guard by applying a thin layer of coconut oil. Leave on when not in use. Rinse before using.
• Cleanse and add a glossy finish to indoor plants by wiping the leaves with a small amount of coconut oil on a lint-free cloth.
• Remove chewing gum from virtually any area, including carpets and hair.

Sources: mercola.com, coconutoil.com and myholistichabits.com.

 Joanne Henning Tedesco is editor of AzNetNews.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 32, Number 6, December 2013/January 2014.