With all the problems that come in our way and the everyday work we have to accomplish, it's inevitable to be stressed out and drained. Not to mention, experiencing body pain commonly happens as well. To ease physical and emotional ailments, a good massage is always one of the top solutions. Of course, since pampering oneself in a spa can be a pricey treat, most people opt for massages done at home. This means using the right oil to achieve a much better result, and one of the best candidates is coconut oil.
Coconut oil is the product of pressing the dried coconut meat or copra. It is more than 80% saturated fat, containing generally medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) or fatty acids instead of the long-chain fatty acids that people consume regularly. The difference between these two is that MCTs can be absorbed whole, while long-chain fatty acids still have to break down before the body can absorb them.
Considering this, coconut oil, when applied to the body through massage, will be immediately taken in by the skin, so its effects are expected to take place in an instant. Also, based on a study, coconut oil has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, as well as lauric acid. These components help increase the circulation of blood and oxygen in all parts of your body, thus heightening the healing and rejuvenation of the muscles.
In addition, coconut oil is also great for easing stiff joints. The oil instantly works deep into the skin, relieving pain, and boosting mobility. In particular, some researchers say that coconut oil consists of antioxidants called polyphenols, which are effective for soothing some symptoms of arthritis.
Apart from reducing pain, lauric acid, which turns into monoglycerides called monolaurin, serves as a germ-fighter against many bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. While the said acid cannot be recognized for all of the benefits coconut oil gives, a certain analysis states that many of the benefits are connected to lauric acid.
There are two main ways to use coconut oil as a massage oil. The first and simplest option is to apply the oil directly to the skin, spread it, and massage as needed. The second choice is to use coconut oil as a carrier oil - this is where coconut oil becomes the base of a particular essential or aromatherapy oils. Multiple scented oils, when directly applied to the skin, irritate. Hence, they are typically diluted to make them less potent.
However, before using coconut oil as a massage oil, one must perform a patch test to determine whether one is allergic or not. Allergy is possible to develop during or after application. Blisters may also form a day or two following the application. Besides these, one must also take note to purchase "fractionated" coconut oil as this only comprises medium-chain triglycerides, which are lighter, liquid at room temperature, and non-greasy. Such coconut oil is particularly effective in getting rid of muscle tension. Plus, it can be easily washed out of most fabrics, avoiding most stains.
So, the next time you need a relaxing massage to ease your stress and body pain, use coconut oil to take it up a notch.
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Written by Mhaliya S.
