Coconut Oil
Coconut oil: what meta-analyses show for cholesterol, what a narrative review says about skin, hair and oil pulling, and why food, skin and hair uses are different questions.
Content last updated . This page has not been medically reviewed.
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Overview and identity
Coconut oil is a fixed oil from the kernel of mature coconuts. The two main types, copra oil and virgin coconut oil, have similar fatty acid profiles; virgin oil has more of some nutrients such as vitamin E and polyphenols. Its main fatty acid, lauric acid, has been suggested to act as both a medium- and long-chain fatty acid, and research on pure medium-chain fatty acids cannot be applied directly to coconut oil. [1] It is a fixed oil, not an essential oil; see Essential Oils.What the research shows
| Use | What the research shows | Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Eating it (cholesterol) | A 2020 meta-analysis of 16 trials found coconut oil raised LDL cholesterol by 10.47 mg/dL and HDL by 4.00 mg/dL compared with non-tropical vegetable oils, with no significant effect on glycemia, inflammation or body fatness. [2] | Meta-analysis of trials |
| Skin (atopic dermatitis) | A narrative review says limited but consistent evidence supports topical use for prevention and treatment of atopic dermatitis. [1] | Limited |
| Oil pulling and cavities | Limited but consistent evidence for prevention of dental caries (a narrative review). [1] | Limited |
| Hair | A systematic review of 22 articles found coconut oil has been shown to treat brittle hair and hair infestation clinically, with limited evidence for hair growth. [3] A narrative review says it may help prevent hair damage from grooming and sun, but more studies are needed. [1] | Limited |
| Alzheimer's disease, bone loss, blood sugar | Limited evidence does not support use. [1] | Not supported |
| Weight loss, cardiovascular disease | Larger trials needed. [1] | Insufficient |
Food, skin and hair are different
A result for eating coconut oil does not apply to skin, and vice versa. We do not give amounts or "recipes".Safety and quality
We found no source we could read on allergy or interactions, so we make none. Do not swallow oils sold for cosmetic use. The cholesterol finding above is a documented effect of eating it.Frequently asked questions
Is coconut oil healthy to eat?
A 2020 meta-analysis found it raised LDL cholesterol compared with non-tropical vegetable oils. [2]
Does coconut oil help hair grow?
A systematic review found limited evidence for hair growth, with better evidence for brittle hair and infestation. [3]
References
- Wallace TC. Health Effects of Coconut Oil: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence. J Am Coll Nutr. 2019;38(2):97-107. PubMed 30395784.
- Neelakantan N, Seah JYH, van Dam RM. The Effect of Coconut Oil Consumption on Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials. Circulation. 2020;141(10):803-814. PubMed 31928080.
- Phong C, et al. Coconut, Castor, and Argan Oil for Hair in Skin of Color Patients: A Systematic Review. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(7):751-757. PubMed 35816075.
Education, not medical advice. This page is for general information. It does not diagnose or treat any condition and is not a substitute for care from a qualified health professional. Natural does not automatically mean safe. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before changing your care, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition.