Top 5 Benefits of Coconut Oil For Endometriosis
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Melissa Thompson, PT, DPT, MTC
Dr. Thompson is board certified and the owner of Louisiana Pelvic Health. Her expertise is in alleviating bladder, bowel, and sexual pain symptoms during pregnancy, postpartum, and throughout a woman's life.
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Endometriosis is affecting your quality of life. Painful flare-ups, digestive problems, and stress are stealing joyous moments.
You’ve tried several treatments, but none are improving your symptoms. You feel trapped by your endometriosis with little help in sight.
But there is hope:
Coconut oil may be able to provide some relief and freedom from your symptoms! The following guide explains how this versatile oil can ease endometriosis symptoms so you can get back to living your life.
Conventional Coconut Oil Vs. Virgin Coconut Oil Vs. Organic Coconut Oil
Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC) is believed to contribute to endometriosis and fibroids.
Avoiding EDC such as pesticides and chemicals used in farming is vital in protecting women’s reproductive health.
Conventional Coconut Oil
This is a refined, bleached, and deodorized oil made from copra, the dried meat of the coconut. Conventional coconut oil is extracted using chemicals that strip away many of the natural nutrients in the fruit. Since copra is unedible before it is refined and the extraction process uses harsh chemicals conventional coconut oil is should be avoided especially for topical and internal uses.
Virgin Coconut Oil
This is an unrefined oil made from fresh coconuts. Some studies show VCO extracted using a fermentation process produces the highest amounts of antioxidants. Most VCOs are not organically certified so there is no guarantee chemicals aren’t used in the farming and extraction process. VCOs are not 100% organic and could contain chemicals so not a natural choice.
Organic Coconut Oil
Sometimes referred to as raw coconut oil, this oil is made from 100% organically grown coconuts. Oils labeled organic or raw do not contain any chemicals and only use the most minimal extraction processes.
Organic coconut oil is the closest to nature, containing no chemicals or EDCs, therefore, is the top choice for the treatment of endometriosis symptoms.
Coconut Oil Uses - There Are A Lot!
Coconut oil is a natural antibacterial, anti-fungal and contains antioxidants which all promote a healthy body.
In addition to the beauty benefits, coconut oil can be incorporated into your diet to boost your metabolism and reduce your appetite which both can help to combat the bloating and weight gain often associated with endometriosis
2 Topical Benefits
1. Coconut Oil For Skin (Yes, Vaginal Skin) Creates Hydration & Elasticity
Vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy (loss of elasticity) are common problems for women with endometriosis.
These symptoms can make sex extremely painful, disrupting your sex life and creating a disconnect between you and your partner.
Using coconut oil alone or in conjunction with a personal lubricant like Chivaye’s Premium Personal Lubricant will moisturize and add elasticity to vaginal tissue.
2. Coconut Oil Can Replace or Heal Dying Skin Cells
Aging combined with hormonal changes related to endometriosis contributes to a decrease in skin cell production.
As our skin cells production begins to slow our vaginal skin begins to thin, lose moisture and lose elasticity resulting in dryness, itching, and discomfort.
Some studies show a link between coconut oil usage and skin cell rejuvenation.
3 Benefits From Eating Coconut Oil
Eating coconut oil can contribute to your overall health by boosting energy and increasing good HDL cholesterol which is linked to a reduction in the risk of heart disease, a leading cause of death in women.
Women with endometriosis can also reap these benefits and more by adding coconut oil to their diets.
Try substituting coconut oil for any cooking oil and/or butter, mixing it in a morning smoothie or a relaxing cup of chai tea!
1. Can Reduce Inflammation
Since endometriosis is an inflammatory condition one way to reduce painful flare-ups is to reduce inflammation.
Coconut oil contains several fatty acids but lauric acid metabolizes differently than other fatty acids transforming it into super-powered anti-inflammatory.
2. Can Help IBS & Digestive Issues
Women with endometriosis are 2.5 times more likely to develop IBS. Digestive issues are often a direct result of opioids and other medications prescribed to fight the disease.
Coconut oil has been found to alleviate IBS and is low on the FODMAP for IBS.
3. Can Reduce Stress & Anxiety
Endometriosis affects a woman's quality of life and mental health leaving many patients struggling with stress, anxiety, and depression.
A recent study found that coconut oil could have anti-depression & anti-stress qualities.
Now that you’ve discovered the benefits of coconut oil for endometriosis you are no doubt adding it to your shopping list.
Be sure to add Chiavaye products, made with organic coconut oil, to your list too!