Yes, virgin coconut oil (VCO) has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in animal and test-tube studies, mainly due to its antioxidant compounds like polyphenols and medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) which help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammatory markers. While promising, most research is animal-based, so human clinical evidence needs further expansion, though VCO shows potential for reducing inflammation in conditions like skin issues and metabolic disorders.
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
Extra virgin olive oil is a well-known anti-inflammatory oil, rich in oleic acid and antioxidants like oleocanthal. Oleocanthal is a natural compound unique to extra virgin olive oil that works like ibuprofen by blocking enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) involved in inflammation.
You can use coconut oil for hemorrhoids by consuming it regularly or applying it externally. This includes cooking with the oil, applying it to external hemorrhoids using a cotton ball, adding it to your bath, and more.
When taken by mouth: Coconut oil is commonly consumed in foods. But coconut oil contains a type of fat (saturated fat) that can increase cholesterol levels. Like all saturated fats, it should be consumed in moderation. Coconut oil is possibly safe when used as a medicine short-term.
Cardiologists advise avoiding coconut oil because it's extremely high in saturated fat (around 90%), which significantly raises LDL ("bad") cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease, despite claims of potential HDL ("good") cholesterol benefits. While some fats in coconut oil might act differently, the overall effect is negative for heart health, making healthier unsaturated fats from oils like olive, canola, or avocado much better choices for cholesterol and cardiovascular health, say experts from institutions like the Mayo Clinic, Harvard Health, and the Australian Heart Foundation.
Coconut oil is full of saturated fat, which can raise your LDL (bad) cholesterol and your chances of cardiovascular disease and stroke. The American Heart Association recommends you to eat low-saturated fat foods and use healthier oils when you cook.
Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) can help with pain and swelling. Apply ice several times a day for 10 minutes at a time. Then place a warm compress on the anal area for another 10 to 20 minutes. Take a sitz bath.
Where Not to Put Coconut Oil. Since coconut oil could clog pores, consider not using it on the face or other body parts prone to acne, like the chest and back, unless directed by a healthcare provider. Also avoid getting coconut oil in the eyes.
At Breakfast
To quickly reduce inflammation, use the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for acute injuries, combine with anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, and berries, get enough sleep (7+ hours), manage stress, and incorporate gentle exercise like brisk walking. Reducing processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats while increasing omega-3s, antioxidants, and fiber provides a powerful, faster response for chronic issues.
While no oil offers the exact muscle-paralyzing effect of Botox, oils like Castor Oil, Rosehip Oil, Frankincense, and Cactus Seed Oil are often called "nature's Botox" for their ability to deeply hydrate, improve elasticity, boost collagen, and smooth wrinkles, with Castor Oil being praised for its humectant properties (trapping moisture) and Rosehip/Cactus Seed oils rich in vitamins for skin repair.
“Coconut oil can be included in a healthy diet, but because it's high in saturated fat, it's best used sparingly rather than as your everyday cooking oil,” explains Lakatos. If fighting inflammation is key for you, nutrition experts recommend using olive oil over coconut oil.
Coconut oil can moisturise the skin and has mild antimicrobial properties. Applying a small amount around the navel may help with dry, flaky skin nearby.
The assay of antibacterial activity of clinical isolate of Streptococcus species showed the highest susceptibility to coconut oil while Escherichia coli had the least. This study endorses the use of coconut oil as therapeutic agent since it contains lauric acid which is bactericidal.
Walnut Oil
This oil is high in polyunsaturated fatty acids, including alpha-linoleic acid, that have cardiovascular and cholesterol-lowering benefits. These fatty acids can also lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a measure of body-wide inflammation.
Cardiologists advise avoiding coconut oil because it's extremely high in saturated fat (around 90%), which significantly raises LDL ("bad") cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease, despite claims of potential HDL ("good") cholesterol benefits. While some fats in coconut oil might act differently, the overall effect is negative for heart health, making healthier unsaturated fats from oils like olive, canola, or avocado much better choices for cholesterol and cardiovascular health, say experts from institutions like the Mayo Clinic, Harvard Health, and the Australian Heart Foundation.
Coconut oil offers many benefits. One of these benefits is easing arthritis pain. Coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids, which possess antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties.
In coconut oil, saturated fat is more easily broken down, directly absorbed into the bloodstream, and transported quickly to the liver where it becomes readily available for energy production. As a dietitian, I find the unique properties of coconut oil's saturated fat interesting.
Apply a hemorrhoid cream or suppository containing hydrocortisone that you can buy without a prescription. You also can use pads containing witch hazel or a numbing medicine. Soak regularly in a warm bath or sitz bath. Soak your anal area in plain warm water for 10 to 15 minutes two or three times a day.
Now, however, a nonsurgical procedure performed by UCLA Health Interventional Radiology aims to make treatment more palatable. Interventional radiologists offer a minimally invasive procedure called hemorrhoidal artery embolization (HAE) designed to alleviate bleeding and gradually shrink the hemorrhoids.
To treat hemorrhoids in toddlers, focus on relieving constipation with a high-fiber diet (fruits, veggies, whole grains) and plenty of fluids, plus warm sitz baths in shallow water, gentle cleaning with wet wipes, and limiting toilet time; always consult a doctor before using creams, laxatives, or considering surgery, as these usually require professional guidance.
The big debate on whether or not coconut oil is beneficial to our health arises from the ratio of medium-chain fatty acids to long-chain fatty acids. This is because MCFAs raise both HDL (“good”) and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
However, if you regularly eat red meat, cheese, fried foods, ice cream and pastries, and aren't getting enough vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes, then you're already consuming high amounts of saturated fat. Therefore, adding coconut oil would not be a good choice.