Fractionated coconut oil is a
carrier oil for other essential oils.
By combining coconut oil together
with essential oils, you can create
natural bug repellent, customized
massage oil, antibacterial hand
treatment, sore muscle liniment and
more.
Virgin coconut oil that is rich in
lauric acid fi ghts infections and
yeasts in the body. One of the most
noteworthy is C. diff. Clostridium
diffi cile (C. diff), a commonly-known
intestinal bacteria that is responsible
for causing severe stomach cramps
and diarrhea. By consuming two
tablespoons (30 ml) of coconut
oil orally, it stops the growth of
the bacteria. The fungus Candida
albicans is responsible for yeast
infections which most commonly
occur in warm, moist areas of the
body. Coconut oil has proven to be
both safe and effective in treating
the yeast externally as well as
internally.
Hormonal changes in the
body, such as those experienced
during pregnancy, menopause,
aging or with prescription medication use, can all be greatly improved by using coconut
oil. Used topically, the discomforts of dryness, sensitivity, friction, rashes, and ingrown hairs
are relieved without using other products that contain harsh and often harmful chemicals.
However, coconut oil can cause an allergic reaction in rare instances.
Coconut oil has household uses as well. Not only does it bring out the beauty in natural
wood but it keeps household furniture and leather looking shiny, polished and clean.
Applying coconut oil directly onto wood and leather surfaces with a soft cloth creates a
protective sheen that acts to repel dust, prevents cracking, scratching and splintering. Unlike
commercial polishes, coconut oil can be used alone or as a carrier oil to create a natural,
pleasant aroma. Your house can be delicately fragranced by adding your favorite essential oil
to this do-it-yourself cleaning polish.
In 1915, employees of Boca Grande Land Company, a subsidiary of the American
Agricultural Chemical Company founded by Peter Bradley of Boston, planted the coconut
palms found here on Gasparilla Island that line the wide median of Gilchrist Avenue.
Coconut palms have large, feather-like branches. They have approximately 200 leafl ets
stemming from each branch. Typically the tree grows best near the water, and it prefers moist
soil and warm temperatures. The coconut palm is not native to the United States. They are
found throughout the world and have been proliferated by the coconut fruits which fl oat
across ocean waters.
Here’s hoping that a little bit of coconut oil fi nds its way to your home as well.
26 GASPARILLA MAGAZINE • May/June • 2021