Lauric Acid

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So what is Lauric Acid and why should you care?

Extensive research on the medicinal and nutritional benefits on coconut oil has surfaced in recent years.

Much of that research has been done by Dr. Mary Enig. Dr. Enig has categorised coconuts as a "functional food," which provides health benefits over and beyond the basic nutrients. She has particularly identified lauric acid as a key ingredient in coconut products.

"Nearly 50% of the fatty acids in the coconut fat are lauric acid. Lauric acid is a medium chain fatty acid, which has the additional beneficial function of being formed into monolaurin in the human body.

Monolaurin is the antibacterial, antiviral, and antiprotozoal monoglyceride used by the humans to destroy lipid coated viruses such as HIV, herpes, cytomegalovirus, influenza, various pathogenic bacteria including listeria monocytogenes and heliobacter pylori, and protozoa such as giardia lamblia. Some studies have also shown some antimicrobial effects of the free lauric acid."

As a "functional food," coconut oil is now being recognised by the medical community as a powerful tool to fight against immune diseases.

Several studies have been done on its effectiveness, and much research is currently being done on the incredible nutritional value of pure coconut oil. The references for the research can be found in The Healing Miracles of Coconut Oil by Dr. Bruce Fife, ND.

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