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Coconut Oil in Belly Button: Exploring the Science-Backed Benefits

By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more

Key Highlights: 

  • The belly button plays a key role in absorbing coconut oil. 
  • Coconut oil in the belly button provides numerous potential benefits ranging from skin health to pain relief. 
  • Balancing the navel chakra through coconut oil application is proposed to impact overall well-being. 
  • There are precautions to follow when using coconut oil in the belly button. 
  • Consistency is essential for experiencing the benefits of coconut oil in the belly button. 
     

Introduction 

Coconut oil is a game changer in the health and wellness scene. It’s been used for centuries for the amazing benefits it offers. People also rub it in the belly button, which is said to boost health. In this article, we’re going to explore the science behind this ancient trick, and how it may upgrade your health. 

Coconut Oil in Belly Button: The Science Behind It 

The secret lies in the unique properties of the belly button and the oil’s ability to seep into the skin. This is further described below.  

coconut oil in belly button

The role of the belly button 

Before we get into why coconut oil works, we need to know why the belly button is chosen.  

  • Connection to the umbilical cord 

The belly button is the baby’s lifeline when in the womb. Through the umbilical cord, it gets food and oxygen, while throwing out waste. 

  • The blood vessels in the belly button 

Even after birth, the belly button is a network hub. It connects to organs and main veins by blood vessels. So, when you put oil on it, it can reach your entire body. 

The absorption of coconut oil 

Coconut oil has fats. These fats, called medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), are easily absorbed by our body via the skin. 

  • Fatty acid absorption 

The skin absorbs the MCFAs in coconut oil. These fats then make their way into your bloodstream. Plus, they keep your skin well-fed and moist. The belly button being well connected to organs and blood vessels also easily absorbs the MCFAs.  

Did you know?

Potential Benefits of Coconut Oil in Belly Button 

1. Improving skin health 

The top benefit is healthy skin.  

  • Nourishing the skin 

The MCFAs in coconut oil hydrate skin. They feed it and make it soft, smooth, and bright. 

  • Clearing blemishes 

Coconut oil may help get rid of pigmentation spots. It fights harmful bacteria that can cause skin problems like pimples. 

2. Reducing belly fat 

Coconut oil on your belly button may help reduce belly fat.  

  • Metabolism boost 

The MCFAs in coconut oil is proposed to give the metabolism a boost. This means you burn more energy and lose weight faster. 

  • Feeling fuller for longer 

When applied to the navel, coconut oil is proposed to keep hunger at bay. This way, you may avoid extra snacks. 

3. Enhancing fertility 

There’s a belief that says belly button coconut oil may help make you more fertile.  

  • Balancing hormones 

It is proposed to help balance hormones tied to having kids, such as estrogen and progesterone. There is no valid science backing this as of now.  

4. Alleviating menstrual pain 

The period can come with pain and discomfort. MCFAs in coconut oil are thought to have muscle-relaxing and anti-inflammatory effects. Thus, proposed to relieve menstrual pains. More research is needed in this regard.   

5. Managing upset stomach 

Coconut oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties so they may be able to get rid of harmful bugs that cause stomach pain. The MCFAs are said to aid digestion. Thus, it may be good for managing an upset stomach. Taking it orally will be more beneficial than rubbing in the belly button.  

6. Strengthening vision 

While more evidence is needed, the oil potentially offers key nutrients that may help fight inflammation, also keeping your eyes at their best. Moreover, the MCFAs provide nutrition to tissues all over the body. This may make your eyes healthier and work better. 

Although research have shown positive effects of coconut oil application, further large-scale human studies are needed to confirm these benefits. 
 

Balancing Chakras with Coconut Oil in Belly Button 

The navel chakra 

Based on age-old wisdom from Ayurvedic and yoga practices, the belly button chakra, or navel chakra, is said to have a big role in your overall strength and self-belief. 

  • Location and Significance 

The navel chakra is found above your belly button. It is linked to self-assuredness, feeling empowered, and steering your life’s path. 

  • Connection with other chakras 

The navel chakra ties in with other energy points like the Root and Heart chakras. Keeping it balanced is said to be key for a well-rounded emotional, mental, and spiritual health. Rubbing coconut oil around the belly button is said to help maintain a balanced navel chakra.  

Applying coconut oil to the navel chakra 

  • Technique 

All it takes to apply coconut oil to your navel chakra is heating up a little oil, and massage it around your belly button. Do this as part of your daily routine or along with a full chakra balance ritual. 

  • Benefits 

Rubbing coconut oil on your belly button may boost your self-confidence, ease digestion, and increase energy levels.  

Precautions to Follow 

As a caution, while belly button coconut oil use is typically safe, being aware of some safety tips is a good idea.  

Cleanliness of the belly button 

The first step is to keep your belly button clean. Be sure to remove any dirt or lint. 

  • Removing dirt 

You need just a soft cloth, soak it in warm water, and gently rub the area. 

  • Ensuring hygiene 

Being clean may avoid infections due to dirt build-up and bad bacteria. 

Quality of coconut oil 

Next, pick a good-quality coconut oil.  

Virgin vs. refined coconut oil 

Virgin coconut oil is better. It’s less processed and is richer in quality . 

Organic and cold-pressed options 

Go for organic, cold-pressed oils. They’re free of preservatives and keep the good substances intact. 

Allergies to coconut oil 

Some may have an allergic reaction to coconut oil.  

  • Identifying an allergic reaction 

If you feel itchy or red, stop using the oil. Talk to your healthcare provider right away. 

  • Alternative oils 

You can try other oils like almond, sunflower, or olive. Just be sure to discuss this with your healthcare provider first. 

Conclusion 

Rubbing coconut oil on your belly button can seem odd. But this old trick might provide potential health benefits. Though it’s generally safe, discussing with a doctor before starting is always important. Be sure to follow the tips we shared here. In cases you are allergic, then stop the coconut oil and visit a doctor right away. You can try using alternative oils in case of allergy.  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

How often should you put coconut oil on your belly button? 

For the best effects, try using coconut oil on your belly button once a day or every other day, preferably before sleep. 

Can you use other oils besides coconut oil for belly button application? 

Yes, you can. Other oils like almond, sunflower, and olive are also good. 

Is it safe to apply coconut oil in the belly button during pregnancy? 

Generally, yes. But it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider first. 

How long does it take to see the benefits of coconut oil in the belly button? 

Everyone is different, but some people see better skin, digestion, and wellness in a few weeks. 

Can children also benefit from applying coconut oil in the belly button? 

Coconut oil has benefits for everyone. However, talk to your child’s doctor before trying new things. 

References: 

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