In this article, we’ll cover the following:

Lauric acid and coconut oil have been linked since day one. It’s one of coconut oil’s essential components. Lauric acid plays a significant role in many of the properties associated with coconut oil, as it has been studied for antimicrobial activity. It’s a healthy saturated fat because it belongs to the medium-chain triglycerides and includes related fatty acids such as capric and caprylic acids. Pure coconut oil contains about 50% lauric acid.

You can’t directly ingest lauric acid as there’s no available lauric acid on the market.

When consumed in our body, lauric acid is converted into monolaurin. Monolaurin is a monoglyceride that has been studied for its activity involving certain viruses, bacteria, fungi, microbes, and protozoa, particularly in laboratory settings. Research has examined how it may interact with the lipid membranes of certain microorganisms. Another source of monolaurin is a mother’s breast milk.

Yes, it’s a fatty acid. However, since the liver immediately processes it, it doesn’t get stored in our body. It then speeds up the fat-burning process and converts it to energy.

Health Benefits of Lauric Acid in Coconut Oil

Lauric acid and coconut have been linked with weight loss for some time. Some research has examined the consumption of lauric acid and other medium-chain fatty acids in relation to calorie intake and metabolism. Coconut oil has also been discussed in relation to blood sugar and cholesterol levels, although these findings should not be interpreted as proof that coconut oil can treat weight, blood sugar, or cholesterol-related conditions.

The lauric acid in coconut oil has also been used in oil pulling as part of an oral-care routine. Lauric acid has been studied for antimicrobial properties, which is one reason coconut oil is sometimes discussed in connection with oral hygiene. However, oil pulling should not replace regular brushing, flossing, or professional dental care.

As mentioned earlier, lauric acid has been studied for antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, particularly in laboratory research. These properties have contributed to interest in lauric acid and its potential biological effects. One good thing about lauric acid is that it is non-toxic. It isn’t made from chemicals that could give us adverse reactions.

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Lauric acid and coconut oil’s other components have been discussed or studied in relation to:

  • Herpes
  • Acne
  • Psoriasis
  • Flu
  • Swine
  • Ringworm
  • Athlete’s foot
  • Warts
  • Yeast infection
  • Chlamydia
  • Jock itch
  • Common cold
  • Relieve joint pains
  • Measles
  • Hepatitis C

How to reap lauric acid’s benefits?

You can typically ingest lauric acid as part of your diet or apply coconut oil directly to your skin, depending on the intended use. Coconut oil can also be used for cooking or mixed with other foods.

There’s no relatively solid dosage of lauric acid that a person should take. Coconut oil expert Dr. Mary G. Enig suggested that adults and growing children take about 10 to 12 grams of lauric acid daily. It’s important to note that a tablespoon of coconut oil contains about 2 grams of lauric acid. This suggestion should not be interpreted as an established medical dosage or as a treatment recommendation for any health condition.

As mothers best produce lauric acid with breast milk, it seems impossible to have the required amount of lauric acid from that source later in life. Coconut oil is another dietary source of lauric acid (48–50%). With regular coconut oil use, you can include lauric acid as part of your overall diet.

Lauric acid and other components in coconut oil continue to be studied for their nutritional and biological properties. Coconut oil can be kept at home for its many culinary and personal-care uses. Search for several uses of coconut oil, and you might find it useful.