Scientifically studied properties include: antimicrobial, antibacterial, antioxidant, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory.
Most modern research into Organic Virgin Coconut Oil focuses on its anti-inflammatory properties. The idea is that coconut oil contains powerful antioxidants (alkaloids and saponins, for example) that scavenge free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can build up over time and damage lipids, proteins and DNA. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by giving them electrons. This action delays or stops the damage (also called oxidative stress) that contributes to various chronic health issues.
Combining Coconut Oil with CBD may also help the body absorb cannabinoids. Additionally Coconut Oil is quite versatile and stable, with a high smoke point, allowing it to be safely used in recipes, topically or consumed as-is. Importantly, using Coconut Oil ensures your CBD products don’t spoil quickly or have a strong flavor. For example, sesame oil also improves oral bioavailability, but it is a very volatile oil prone to rancidity/spoilage, with a distinct flavor and aroma.
What makes Organic Virgin Coconut Oil “virgin” is how it is extracted from the Coconut. It remains unrefined. Virgin or “unrefined” oil leaves all the naturally occurring nutrients and properties intact. When consumed or used topically, Organic Virgin Coconut Oil releases the antimicrobial agents lauric acid and monolaurin. These compounds may enhance the immune system by lowering inflammation throughout the body.
Considerations: Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is about 90% saturated fat. Some experts, like the American Heart Association, caution that consuming it regularly may significantly raise serum cholesterol levels — but research on cardiovascular risk is mixed. Otherwise, using this ingredient is typically safe. Adverse reactions in studies have included diarrhea, gastroenteritis and weight gain.
