20 ways to use coconut oil

From cooking to coffee creamer and lip balm to sunscreen, coconut oil has a lot of uses.

As more people begin to realize this product’s versatility, its use is on the rise around the globe. You can pick up this item at your local grocery store and use it in one or more of the following ways. Another bonus: It’s healthy for you.

1. Add to foods and drinks for a daily energy boost.

2. Substitute as a healthier coffee creamer.

3. Apply to skin as basic lotion for soft, smooth skin.

4. Use as a gentle eye makeup remover.

5. Use as a natural SPF 4 sunscreen.

6. Can be used as an effective lip balm.

7. Can reduce the itch of mosquito bites.

8. Use on hair to nourish and hydrate.

9. Use as a natural shaving cream or aftershave.

10. Blend a tablespoon into hot tea to help speed recovery from a cold or flu.

11. Use as a substitute for butter when baking.

12. Consume to help improve insulin levels.

13. Use as an ingredient in healthy brain-boosting snacks like coconut clusters.

14. Can be a filler for smoothies.

15. Rub on the inside of your nose to help alleviate allergy symptoms.

16. Can help improve cholesterol levels.

17. Can help heal sunburns.

18. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help lessen arthritis.

19. Can be used to coat the bottom of a skillet for cooking purposes.

20. Some evidence shows that the beneficial fats in coconut oil can help with depression and anxiety.