Coconut Oil for Kids

Coconut oil has been the superfood du jour for some time now, with foodies and the wellness community heralding its anti-inflammatory and easily-digestible benefits. We love it for its high smoking point and delicate flavour, making it the perfect base ingredient for an Asian-inspired stir fry or delicious vegan treat.

Coconut oil has so many amazing uses for us grown ups aside from eating it (use it as a gentle make-up remover, or an all-over body moisturiser), but it's also a useful household staple for those of us with children. The main thing to remember with coconut oil is to find the highest quality product. Our raw virgin coconut oil is organic, cold-pressed and 100% traceable so using either our organic coconut oil, or our mild, odourless cuisine oil is a perfect way to incorporate the coconut goodness into your family's daily routine.

Organic snacking

Those of us with little ones know that getting a daily dose of fruit and veg into their active little bodies can be a chore. Many of us turn to sneakier tactics and smoothies are a go-to for parents smuggling additional nutrients into their families diet. A delicious way to add some extra goodness is to whizz up a teaspoon of coconut oil into your child's favourite fruity smoothie. The coconut oil is practically undetectable and adds a delicious richness.

In many of our households the after-school snack, or convenient breakfast is one the health-conscious parent can struggle with. Loathe to dish out packets of crisps or bowls of sugary cereal, we turn to bread-based snacks. But for those of us avoiding dairy, or who want to add a kick of something healthy to our kids' meals, opt for a delicious, plant-based alternative and spread some coconut oil on your little ones' crumpets or toast.

Baby massage

Coconut oil is a great go-to when you've got to do some soothing. Baby massage is a gorgeous, intimate way to connect and unwind with your baby and coconut oil is the perfect base oil. Natural, unperfumed, organic and meltingly smooth, rub a small amount between palms to warm and then get relaxing with baby.

Nappy rash

Another brilliant use for coconut oil is the prevention and treatment of nappy rash. Acting as a barrier cream, use coconut oil daily on your baby to protect from irritation; you can also use the oil as a chemical-free, natural and organic balm for irritated, rashy skin. Coconut oil has been shown to have anti-fungal properties, making it ideal for preventing further conditions. Breastfeeding mothers can also use a little coconut oil as a soothing, healing nipple cream.

Scrapes and burns

Because of its antibacterial and soothing properties, coconut oil is homemade medicine cabinet essential. After cleaning a scrape, graze or a minor burn, apply a little coconut oil to the affected area. For larger area burns you can also apply and then wrap with a bandage to speed up healing.

Eczema

Like burns and scrapes, eczema sufferers can benefit from the anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties of coconut oil. It can be effective at reducing the presence of bacteria, fungi and other nasties, so coconut oil can be your store cupboard hero when it comes to your itchy littlies. A large amount of products for sensitive skin still contain chemicals, perfumes and palm oil but our virgin coconut oil is a moisturiser you can trust to be 100% natural.

For mild to moderate conditions, eczema experts Scratch Sleeves suggest applying "a light coating of virgin coconut oil to the affected skin twice a day. For severe eczema apply a generous amount of coconut oil to a bandage and wrap around the affected area and repeat up to four times a day."

Hair conditioner

Coconut oil is used by many as a frizz-tamer, a deep conditioner and even a styling product. Hair that tends to be thicker or drier or over-treated can really benefit from a coconut oil conditioning. There are many different approaches, but for a quick fix, rub a small amount through fingers and then into the hair to give a glossy and soft feel. For smaller children, if cradle cap is an issue, rub a small amount of coconut oil into the scalp and comb through gently to lift out any loose patches.

Lice treatment

Yes! Would you believe it! A proven alternative to the strong chemical-smelling nit cream we caregivers and our children have to endure. Simply apply a mixture of coconut oil, anise oil, and ylang ylang, 3 times a day for 5 days for an extremely effective result in combating head lice.

What do you use your coconut oil for? A delicious home cooking essential, or must-have bathroom cabinet item? Share your thoughts with us on social. #bionacoconutoil #bionaliving