coconut oil

Coconut oil is a natural oil derived from the meat of coconuts (*Cocos nucifera*), distinguished by its high concentration of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), particularly lauric acid (C12), caprylic acid (C8), and capric acid (C10). It is widely studied for its metabolic benefits, including its ability to improve lipid profiles by increasing HDL cholesterol and its potential role in weight management by enhancing thermogenesis and satiety, although results in pediatric populations have been mixed. In neurology, coconut oil is investigated as a non-pharmacological intervention for Alzheimer's disease, where its MCTs are converted into ketone bodies that bypass impaired glucose metabolism in neurons to provide an alternative energy source. Furthermore, research suggests it may have anti-inflammatory applications in asthma via the mitochondrial Arginase-2 pathway and topical benefits as an emollient for occupational dermatitis.

Other names

Cocos nucifera oilextra virgin coconut oil椰子油