One Ingredient, Five Ways: Coconut Oil

It seems everyone is raving about coconut oil these days…and for good reason — It’s a yummy, edible, do-it-all product that also works wonders for skin and hair. This Summer I’m participating in Unilever’s Project Sunlight (this blog post explains the project a bit more), and as part of this fun, sustainable living focused project, I have agreed to share five ways to use one of my favorite “go-the-distance” products.  And I decided to get my buddy, Christene Carr, in on the action. Read on as we share five ways to use coconut oil:

ginger lime dressing
photo credit: louanacoconutoil.com

I typically crave fresh green salads during the warm summer months, so naturally I have found a way to incorporate coconut oil. While I cannot take credit for the recipe (I wish!!) this simple Ginger Lime & Coconut Salad Dressing is nothing short of delicious over fresh greens and grilled chicken.

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As much as I’d love to be that girl, I’ve yet to make the zen-ful transition to tea. So for now, ‘gimme my morning Joe, STAT’. I like to give my coffee a little added creaminess with a small dollop of coconut oil. Trust me, it is beyond yum!

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A tiny bit of coconut oil on the lips at night is a wonderful treat. In the morning, lips are thoroughly hydrated and soft to the touch…and just a bit more kissable!

coconut oil and sugar scrub
photo credit: Wellness Mama

Give your body a little extra loving without visiting the spa. All you need is equal parts coconut oil and brown sugar…and voila – an invigorating, homemade body scrub!

Christene-Carr-DIY-TwistOut

Want to try coconut oil in your hair? Christene offers this:  I do an overnight pre shampoo treatment with organic coconut oil once or twice per month. After washing and conditioning I add a small amount of coconut oil to damp hair and I also add a heat protectant and leave-in-conditioner before blow-drying. This process leaves my hair soft and easy to manage. I can then style in  braids/cornrows,ponytails/top knots  and various  updos.  TTBTip: Coconut oil will clog pores so avoid putting it directly on your scalp.

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 Unilever Project Sunlight can help you get your ‘green-ness’ off the ground in just a few, fun steps.

1. View this amazing little film, “The Way Kids See It“. I promise you will fall in love with each and every one of these tiny humanitarians . . .and you will find yourself inspired to create a better future for children.

2. Follow along as I share a Summer Sunlight Activity in an effort to go green. I will use ‘1 Ingredient, 5 ways‘. Look out for that blog post to publish soon!

3.  Join in by sharing  stories and tips, tag @UnileverUSA using #brightfuture on Twitter and Facebook.

4. I’d love to learn from YOU! Please leave comments below to share your reaction to the film and some of the inspiring ideas from children in your family.

DISCLOSURE:  While this post is part of a sponsored campaign by Unilever Project Sunlight, all experiences and opinions expressed are entirely my own.

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