Good Morning!

Teeny Harris is a brilliant photographer and artist, and agreed to come on board to help me and Margaret Turner Designs to create a brand for my new scarf collection, which hopefully will grow into more.  That is, if I can stop the hamster wheel from turning long enough to narrow my scope and implement the millions of ideas already in this strange brain of mine.  I wanted to share the first (hopefully of many) photo shoot my scarves had last week.  The scarves proved to be great sports, no diva personalities just yet, although I am thinking the Sea Urchin is going to demand much more when we meet again.  Check them out!

* order your scarf here.
* check out more of Teeny's beautiful photography here.

 



(c) Margaret Turner Designs and The Coral Peacock.

The photo shoot was a last minute idea of Teeny's because of an event I participated in Saturday, May 26th, at Bald Head Island.  YES, I found a way to work there.  How quick did that happen?!  I am starting to believe if you say something out loud, and share it with whomever will listen out there, it will come true! 

I am now a member of the Bald Head Island Artisans!  How awesome is that?  And, the women in this group are so lovely.  They inspire me and make me smile!  I appreciate them letting me join their (our) group so last minute.  AND, we have another show July 7th on BHI.  So, another excuse to go back to my favorite place in the world. 

On top of meeting the lovely ladies in the Bald Head Island Artisans, I also had the opportunity to meet some fantastic people also visiting!  I was so pleasantly surprised and pleased with the feedback I received from everyone.  Here are some pictures of my table at the Bald Head Island Artisan Show and Sale:

Thank you again Bald Head Island! 

Cheers!
xo
Margaret

Whole Foods vs. Harris Teeter

    vs.

You would have to be living under a rock if you weren't aware of the Wholes Foods Grand Opening which was yesterday, May 23rd in Wilmington, NC.  I know I am not the only Wilmingtonian that is beyond thrilled to have a Whole Foods here.  It's almost hard to believe that my hometown has a Whole Foods.  Us Wilmingtonians are used to having to travel to get the 'cool stuff'.  When I was in high school I would skip class and ride up I-40 to go shopping at Banana Republic and J. Crew.  I still go to Anthropologie and lulu lemon athletica when I am there.  After college I lived in places that had the 'cool stuff':  New York City, Raleigh, Austin, and Houston.  While in Austin, I worked at Anthropologie, which is across the street from the mothership Whole Foods.  And, I am not embarrassed to admit that I spent more time at that Whole Foods than in my apartment.  I love Whole Foods, even if it is known as 'whole paycheck' by some.  And, now Wilmington has one, in my neighborhood.  Weird, wonderful, different, fantastic.  I decided to check it out.

I visited the Wilmington Whole Foods today, and I was impressed, of course, but found myself uncomfortable.  No one acts like this at Harris Teeter.  The atmosphere in and around the building was explosive.  When I encountered a group of friends who had obviously run into each other, I couldn't help eavesdropping.  They were talking about Whole Foods and the excitement in their voices made me feel slightly embarassed for them.  One girl in the group actually started singing and twirled on the sidewalk.  Her friend shot back, "I know, now we don't have to wonder where the meat came from or be grossed out by it."  First of all, is this how you communicate at Whole Foods (it's been a while)?  Does a song and a twirl convey something that has to do with meat selection? 

I kept walking trying to take in the 10 minutes I aimed to spend there.  I walked around towards the entrance and was pleasantly surprised that Whole Foods was selling herbs in miniture pots: basil, thyme (lemon leaf...hmm), oregano, cilantro, and more; it was a great selection.  I smiled thinking that Harris Teeter should do something like this.  Then, I glanced at the price, could this be right?  2 for $5, pick and choose?  Wow.  That's not my whole paycheck.  I grabbed them and placed them in my cart walking inside. 

Inside was madness.  Excited madness.  If you've been to a Whole Foods before you can gage how the store is organized.  I wanted to pop in, but I was also in a rush, so I went directly to the prepared wraps, grabbed one, and a sparkling water (Poland Spring, only $1.19 for 33.8 FL OZ!).  I passed two ladies who were in the same excited boat as the rest of the store.  One of them grabbed a water and said, "this water is sooo cold", as she cradled it, then added, "maybe I should get more than one?"  Well, lady, it's hotter than Houston outside and I promise it won't stay that cold for long.  Cute.  I wonder if she ever said that about Harris Teeter water?  I moved to the check out. 

The check out was madness, but I found a line that was almost vacant.  The customers in front of me were chatting with the checkout lady; they were new best friends from the sound of it.  Oh, how I miss Harlene!  I did however make it out of there in less than 10 minutes.  But, I think I was one of the few who knew her intentions.  Besides the herbs, other highlights included free almost everything:  the blueberries were beautiful, some goey stuff not so much, but everyone loves something for free.  On the way out I couldn't help but notice the corn on the cob outside drenched in ice.  Wow, Harris Teeter would never go to that expense.  Or will they? 

So my brain started doing something that resembled thinking.  We have a Whole Foods, and it's great.   But, is it better than Harris Teeter?  Is it really more expensive to shop at Whole Foods than Harris Teeter?   How are they each viewed by Wilmingtonians?  Once the hype calms down, will people continue to shop there.   Will the hype ever calm down. And, what will happen to My Harris Teeter?  

My brain came up with a plan.  For the next 60 days, I will assess my experience with both Harris Teeter and Whole Foods.  Specifically, do I spend more at Whole Foods than at Harris Teeter.  Will I switch completely to Whole Foods (I'd miss Harlene!), or remain loyal to Whole Foods?  What will Wilmington do?  How will Whole Foods change this community?  Follow my progress, share your experiences, and, as Cher Horowitz would say...

Project!
xo
Margaret

Horseshoe Crabs: Living Fossils

Baby Horseshoe Crab beside a tail of a much larger Horseshoe Crab.

This past Saturday, Matthew and I had the pleasure of joining his family for a graduation celebration in Litchfield Beach, SC.  It was very welcome after my mild depression from leaving Bald Head Island.  After the festivities and church in Pawley's Island, we decided to check out the shelling on S. Litchfield Beach.  First of all, we were successful. Secondly, I was so amazed at the beauty of this beach.  We walked, jogged, and shelled Midway Inlet which faces Pawley's Island, and as somewhat of an inlet snob, I was very impressed.  Take a look at this inlet:

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

The picture that is at the top of the post is of a baby horseshoe crab I found on Masonboro Island in April, and tail of a much larger horseshoe crab Matthew found near at Midway Inlet.  So, I thought I would share a few facts I discovered in preparation of writing about my most recent Hunting and Gathering experience:

• Horseshoe crabs date back 450 million years ago, which is why they are considered Living Fossils.  That's 200 million years before Dinosaurs!
• Horseshoe crabs are used for bait and as fertilizers (although I do believe that some states have them listed on their endangered species list ie. Delaware).
• Their tails are used to flip themselves over (they look like a weapon to me). 
• Femailes are larger than males, and you may see them onshore mating. 

Here is another picture of one I found after Hurricane Irene on Bald Head Island at East Beach; unfortunately I came across multiple dead ones after that fitfull storm.

Horseshoe Crab floating in Banks Channel (obviously dead).

Horseshoe Crab

Baby Horseshoe Crabs (their shells are almost flaky).

Masonboro Island Horseshoe Crabs

I know I'm a dork, but what a cool specimen!  Not sure why the baby ones washed up, although they are very light, but Matthew and I found 6 of them in April washed up on the sound side of Masonboro Island.

We also found some Sea Urchins at Midway Inlet.  So fun to find such gems, and amazing that their fragile shell remained intact. 

Hunt and gather, and happy shelling!

Best,

Margaret

Vienna Sausages, Almonds, Beer....obvious Road Trip!

Good times! 

xo
Margaret

Hunting and Gathering: Crabs

Hunt Crabs

Gather Crabs

Last week before my trip to Bald Head, Matthew and I had success!  We hunted crabs with crab gear in a secret spot (after forgetting the crab nets at the dock and having to go back and get them), and gathered crabs in crab trap off my Mimi's dock.  All in all, a delicious dinner!  (Nice facial expression Matthew!).

Revived, Energized, Rejuvenated...and, mildly Depressed.

The view of Bald Head as you approach the marina.

Bald Head Island: where I actually finding myself saying you complete me without actually throwing up in my mouth a little bit. 

Bald Head Island has always been a large part of my life. Even when I was little and didn't really understand inspiration, Bald Head Island meant everything to me. It was a place you escaped. A place where you truly leave a part of yourself once you step foot on the ferry back to the main land. I don't know how many parts of me are living there now, but they are truly the lucky ones. While visiting, I find myself at ease, forgetting what day it is, yet knowing exactly what time of day it is just by the tide and the light in the sky.

When I leave I suffer mild depression. It feels like a break-up. I find myself in tears longing for the happiness I can remember I had just a few hours ago.  And, every break up with Bald Head gets worse after each visit.   I almost get to the point where I almost say, Why do you even put yourself through it, why do you even go to Bald Head?  But, I would never say that, I could never say that....after all, we are talking about Bald Head Island.  What if BHI found out?  What if BHI didn't let me come back to visit?  What if BHI didn't let me continue being the Bald Head Island Hermit?   But, more so, I could never hurt something that means so much to me, even if it's out of short lived heart break.   It's short lived because once I come out of my brief emotional break down, I realize that it's not that far away, and although I left a part of myself on that lovely island, I also took with me more than I can register.  Now, as I start anticipating my next visit, here are a few photos to enjoy from my trip.

"Black Socks" was spotted all week, posing for pictures, or stalking golfers for food.  



Black Socks -  I want a fox for a pet.

 I found Sand Dollars on West Beach just beyond the breakers.  On South Beach I found this shell, which I had to look up.  It was a first.  Meet the McGinty Cyphoma:

McGinty Cyphoma (top)

McGinty Cyphoma (bottom)

And, a brief description:

One of the best aspects of Bald Head Island is the feeling of escape.  I escaped emails and phone calls as my phone service is spotty over yonder.  So, I don't have as many pictures as I would like.  But, the inspiration will hopefully be seen in the scarves I am creating from this past experience. 

Until next time, I must move on and reserve my seat on the next ferry.

Cheers,
Margaret



be inspired by the outdoors, and your passions

Masonboro, Wrightsville Beach, Bald Head Island

and the shells I found there, inspired my lastest project: making a passion of mine an intregal part of my wardrobe...

I am an avid beach girl.  I love the outdoors, and one of my favorite things to do (year round!) is comb the beach for shells.  I have gathered quite a collection.  Many people ask me what I do with the shells that I collect.  Besides decorating my house with shells, I have recently designed scarves inspired by them.  Above is a sneak peak a couple of the designs available this season. 

You are more than welcome to check out my website (that I am continuing to build - what a project!), here.  Teeny Harris, a local photographer and artist has agreed to help me build my brand.  I am excited to see what type of campaign we end up with - something organic and very beachy! 

In the meantime, if you are interested in adding a scarf to your summer wardrobe, please feel free to email me:  margaret.h.turner@gmail.com. 

And check out Teeny's site  here, her pictures are breath-taking and inspiring!

Now, I'm heading out of the office to do some hunting and gathering.  Crabs, maybe clams, and Coors Original for dinner! 

Rain rain stay away, please.

Cheers y'all!
Margaret

Gather this: Lubricant, Nipple Cream, Alzeheimer's Remedy among many!

Coconut Oil  - The New thing to Gather!

This weekend I learned something fantastic about coconuts.  Coconut Oil is badass, basically!  It not only is an alternative to butter (& 100% less cholesterol too), but it can be used to cure almost anything, even frustration! 

* Please note, I have noticed in the minimal research I have conducted on Coconut Oil, some controversy exists.  Most question the fat content, specifically hydrogenated coconut oil.  Many add, that if one chooses to add Coconut Oil to their diets, that it should be UNREFINED ORGANIC Coconut Oil, and since Coconut Oil has Omega-6 content, one should include an Omega-3 to their diet, to get max benefits.  I'm sure there are more warnings, so like everything do your own research or consult an expert before adding Coconut Oil to your diet.

Ketones in Coconut Oil have been known to prevent the onset of Alzeheimer's and may actually prevent it.  The link below is a video that goes into more detail.

http://www.cbn.com/media/player/index.aspx?s=/mp4/LJO190v1_WS

Credit to: www.cbn.com

I Googled this amazingly, natural source of goodness, and found more great news about Coconut Oil; check it out:

Anti-bacterial (kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, gum diseases, and other bacterial infections)

Anti-carcinogenic (coconut oil has antimicrobial properties so it effectively prevents the spread of cancer cells and enhances the immune system)

Anti-fungal (kills fungi and yeast that lead to infection)

Anti-inflammatory (appears to have a direct effect in suppressing inflammation and repairing tissue, and it may also contribute by inhibiting harmful intestinal microorganisms that cause chronic inflammation.)

Anti-microbial/Infection Fighting (the medium-chain fatty acids and monoglycerides found in coconut oil are the same as those in human mother’s milk, and they have extraordinary antimicrobial properties. By disrupting the lipid structures of microbes, they inactivate them. About half of coconut oil consists of lauric acid. Lauric acid, its metabolite monolaurin and other fatty acids in coconut oil are known to protect against infection from bacteria, viruses, yeast, fungi and parasites. While not having any negative effect on beneficial gut bacteria, coconut oil inactivates undesirable microbes.)

An Antioxidant (protects against free-radical formation and damage)

Anti-parasitic (fights to rid the body of tapeworms, lice and other parasites)

Anti-protozoa (kills giardia, a common protozoan infection of the gut)

Anti-retroviral (kills HIV and HLTV-1)

Anti-viral (kills viruses that cause influenza, herpes, measles, hepatitis C, SARS, AIDS, and other viruses)

Infection fighting

Has no harmful for discomforting side effects

Known to improve nutrient absorption (easily digestible; makes vitamins and minerals more available to the body)

Nontoxic to humans and animals

160 Uses for Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil for Personal Hygiene/Body

1. Age Spots (also known as liver spots) – applying coconut oil directly to the age spot will help it fade.

2. After Shave – coconut oil will help heal your skin after shaving without clogging pores. Great for razor burn!

3. Baldness – apply three times a day to affected area of hair loss. Coconut oil supports cell regeneration.

4. Birth Marks – can be used after a laser removal treatment to aid in healing. Can also be applied after an apple cider vinegar treatment to help support and aid the fading process.

5. Body Scrub – mix coconut oil and sugar together and rub all over! Rinse off and your skin will be super soft! You can add in essential oils if you would like a specific smell.

6. Bruises – applied directly to the bruise, coconut oil enhances the healing process by reducing swelling and redness.

7. Bug Bites – when applied directly to a bug bite, coconut oil can stop the itching and burning sensation as well as hasten the healing process.

8. Burns – apply to burn site immediately and continue applying until healed. Will reduce the chances of permanent scarring and promotes healing.

9. Chapstick – just rub a little into lips and it not only acts as a softening agent but it also has an SPF of about 4 so you get a little protection!

10. Cradle Cap – having issues with dry skin on your baby’s scalp? Coconut oil will not only nourish your baby’s skin, it also helps eliminate cradle cap. Just rub a teaspoon onto scalp daily.

11. Dandruff – coconut oil soaks into the scalp moisturizing dry skin and relieves symptoms of dandruff. It also helps to control oil secretion from the scalp, another leading cause of dandruff.

12. Deodorant – coconut oil alone can be used as a deodorant, but even more effective in combination with cornstarch/arrowroot powder and baking soda!

13. Diaper Salve – very comforting on a rashy bum with no harsh chemicals. Also safe for cloth diapers.

14. Exfoliator – coconut oil mixed with sugar or sea salt is a very nourishing and effective exfoliator and safe to use all over the body.

15. Eye cream – apply under the eyes to reduce puffiness, bags and wrinkles. Use on the lids in the evening.

16. Face Wash/ Soap – mix equal parts coconut oil with olive oil, almond oil, avocado oil and castor oil and use in place of soap when washing your face. Wet face, rub oil in and leave on for two minutes, rinse and pat dry. One teaspoon should be adequate.

17. Hair conditioner/ Deep Treatment – use as a leave-in hair conditioner by applying a teaspoon of coconut oil to your ends and then running your fingers through your hair to distribute the rest! For a deeper treatment, rub in a tablespoon of coconut oil onto your dry scalp and gently work through to the ends. Put a shower cap on to prevent transfer onto bed linens and leave on overnight.

18. Hair Gel/ Defrizzer – rub a little between your palms and either scrunch into hair (for curly hair) or finger comb in through from scalp to ends (for wavy/straight hair).

19. Healing - when applied on scrapes and cuts, coconut oil forms a thin, chemical layer which protects the wound from outside dust, bacteria and virus. Coconut oil speeds up the healing process of bruises by repairing damaged tissues. Plus, it smells a heck-of-a-lot better than anything from the pharmacy.

20. Lubricant – it is an all-natural, perfectly safe personal lubricant. Not compatible with latex!

21. Makeup Remover – use a cotton swab and a dab of coconut oil and you would be amazed at how well it works!

22. Massage Oil – pretty simple; grab some and rub!

23. Moisturizer – simply scoop some out of the jar and apply all over your body, including neck and face.

24. Mole Remover – when applied after an apple cider vinegar compress for several weeks, moles have been known to “slide off” or just disappear.

25. Nipple Cream – works great to nourish cracked, sore or dry nipples. Apply to a cotton ball and leave on your nipples between feedings.

26. Oily Skin Fix – prone to oily skin or an oily T-zone? Use a pea sized amount underneath makeup or alone to reduce the appearance of oil.

27. Pre Shampoo Treatment for Hair – rub a little into scalp and hair before shampooing. This is especially useful for those with course or frizzy hair.

28. Pre-Shave – coconut oil will prep skin for the pending damage caused by shaving.

29. Skin Problems – coconut oil relieves skin problems such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema.

30. Stretch Mark Cream – coconut oil is great at nourishing damaged skin. It may not be the magic stretch mark cure but it will help.

31. Sun Burn Relief – rub liberal amounts of coconut oil into the affected area.

32. Sunscreen – see my post on natural sunscreen for more detailed information.

33. Swimmers Ear – mix garlic oil and coconut oil and put a few drops in affected ear for about 10 minutes. Do this 2-3 times a day and it usually works within one or two days.

34. Tattoo Healing and Moisturizer – continued use of coconut oil on tattoos will help keep the pigment from fading. Used on new tattoos, coconut will hasten the healing process and decrease the chance of infection.

35. Toothpaste – there are numerous recipes out there but I just mix coconut oil and baking soda and dab a little of the mix on my toothbrush.

36. Wrinkle Prevention and Wrinkle Reducer – rubbing coconut oil on winkles and sagging skin helps strengthen the connective tissues to bring back that youthful look!

Coconut Oil for General Health and Wellness

37. Breastfeeding – for breastfeeding moms, consuming 3 ½ tablespoons of coconut oil daily will enrich the milk supply.

38. Bones and Teeth – coconut oil aids in the absorption of calcium and magnesium leading to better development of bones and teeth.

39. Digestion - the saturated fats in coconut oil help control parasites and fungi that cause indigestion and other digestion related problems such as irritable bowel syndrome. The fat in coconut oil also aids in the absorption of vitamins, minerals and amino acids, making you healthier all around.

40. Energy Boost – coconut oil boosts energy and endurance making it a great supplement for athletes as well as those needed a quick pick me up.

41. Fitness - coconut oil has been proven to stimulate your metabolism, improve thyroid function, and escalate energy levels, all of which help decrease your unwanted fat while increasing muscle.

42. Improves insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose making it great for both diabetics and non-diabetic.

43. Lung Function – increases the fluidity of cell surfaces.

44. Nausea – rub some coconut oil on the inside for the wrist and forearm to calm an upset stomach.

45. Nose bleeds – coconut oil can prevent nose bleeding that is caused by sensitivity to weather such as extreme heat and extreme cold. This condition happens when the nasal passages become dry because of cold or dry air resulting to burns and cracks in the mucus membranes so bleeding happens. To prevent this just put coconut oil in you nostrils. Coat your finger with coconut oil and then lie down and coat your finger inside your nose. Doing this will strengthen and protect the capillaries in the nasal passages. A Vitamin C supplement will also help prevent nose bleeding.

46. Oil pulling with coconut oil offers a two for one health benefit!

47. Stress Relief – relieve mental fatigue by applying coconut oil to the head in a circular, massaging motion. The natural aroma of coconuts is extremely soothing thus helping to lower your stress level.

48. Vitamin and nutrient absorption

49. Weight loss - the saturated fats contribute to weight loss and controlling cravings. Also increases metabolic rate.

Coconut Oil for Health Problems (when taken internally it is known for aiding, preventing, relieving or even curing these health issues)

50. Acid reflux/indigestion aid if taken after a meal

51. Adrenal fatigue

52. Allergies (seasonal hay fever)

53. Alzheimer’s/Dementia

54. Asthma, even in children

55. Autism

56. Bowel function

57. Bronchial Infections

58. Cancer (has been shown to prevent colon and breast cancer in laboratory tests)

59. Candida Albicans

60. Cholesterol – improves HDL (‘good’ cholesterol) to LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol) ratio in people with high cholesterol

61. Chronic Fatigue

62. Crohns Disease and resulting inflammation

63. Circulation/feeling cold all the time

64. Colds and Flus

65. Constipation

66. Cystic Fibrosis

67. Depression

68. Diabetes – helps keep blood sugar levels stable and/or helps with cravings

69. Dysentery

70. Eczema – in addition to taking it internally, many have success applying it externally, but some don’t

71. Edema

72. Energy boost

73. Epilepsy (known to reduce epileptic seizures)

74. Fever Support

75. Flaky, Dry Skin

76. Gallbladder disease and pain

77. Gas

78. H. pylori

79. Head Lice

80. Heart Disease (protects arteries from injury that causes atherosclerosis)

81. Hemorrhoids (can applied externally or internally twice a day)

82. HIV

83. Hot Flashes

84. Hyperthyroidism

85. Immune System Builder

86. Irritable Bowel Syndrome

87. Jaundice

88. Kidney Disease

89. Kidney Stones (aids in dissolving them)

90. Liver Disease

91. Lung Disease

92. Malnutrition

93. Mental Clarity

94. Menstruation Relief regarding pain/cramps and heavy blood flow

95. Migraines (with regular use)

96. Mononucleosis

97. Osteoporosis

98. Pancreatitis

99. Parasites

100. Periodontal Disease and tooth decay

101. Prostate Enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia)

102. Rickets

103. Skin problems

104. Scurvy

105. Stomach Ulcers

106. Toenail fungus

107. Thrush

108. Thyroid Function (regulates an overactive or underactive thyroid)

109. Ulcerative Colitis

110. Underactive thyroid gland – results have shown subsequent thyroid blood tests becoming normal after ingesting coconut oil daily

111. Urinary Tract Infections (Bladder Infections)

Coconut Oil and Health Problems (when applied topically it is known for aiding, relieving, or even curing these health issues)

112. Acne

113. Allergies/Hay Fever – rub a little inside the nostrils for quick relief. The pollen will cling to the oil.

114. Athletes foot

115. Back pain/sore muscles

116. Boils and cysts

117. Canker sores

118. Cellulite

119. Circumcision healing – although I am personally against circumcision, I have read that coconut oil is a really great healer for this.

120. Decongestant – rub coconut oil on the chest and under the nose when congested from a cold or allergies

121. Ear infection – place a few drops inside the ear twice daily for relief from pain. Also fights the infection itself.

122. Genital Warts (through topical application over 6 weeks, and coconut oil enemas twice a day depending on the location of the warts)

123. Gum Disease and Gingivitis (use as a toothpaste or rub directly on gums)

124.Herpes (applied topically and taken internally)

125.Hives (reduces the itch and swelling

126. Pink eye (applied around and in the eye)

127. Ringworm

128. Toothache

129. Warts

Coconut Oil and Cooking

130. Butter Substitute – use 1 cup to 1 cup ratio when replacing butter in recipes with coconut oil.

131. Nutritional Supplement – melt and add to smoothies.

132. Replacement for butter/lard/Crisco/PAM in its solid form for greasing pans, pie crusts, etc.

133. Replacement for various oils in liquid form – baking, cooking, sautéing, etc.

Coconut Oil and Pets/Animals

Check with your veterinarian but the recommended dosage for animals is 1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of body weight twice daily.

134. Aids healing of digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel syndrome and colitis

135. Aids in arthritis or ligament problems

136. Aids in elimination of hairballs and coughing

137. Applied topically, promotes the healing of cuts, wounds, hot spots, dry skin and hair, bites and stings

138. Clears up skin conditions such as eczema, flea allergies, contact dermatitis, and itchy skin

139. Disinfects cuts and promotes wound healing

140. Great for dogs and cats for general wellness. Just add a teaspoon to their water bowl daily.

141. Helps prevent or control diabetes

142. Helps sedentary dogs feel energetic

143. Helps reduce weight, increases energy

144. Improves digestion and nutrient absorption

145. Makes coats become sleek and glossy, and deodorizes doggy odor

146. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) have been shown to improve brain energy metabolism and decrease the amyloid protein buildup that results in brain lesions in older dogs.

147. Prevents and treats yeast and fungal infections, including candida

148. Reduces allergic reactions and improves skin health

149. Reduces or eliminates bad breath in dogs

150. Regulates and balance insulin and promotes normal thyroid function

Other Uses for Coconut Oil

151. Chewing Gum in Hair Remover – just rub some coconut oil over the stuck chewing gum, leave in for about 30 minutes, then roll the gum between your fingertip. Voila! It’s out!

152. Goo Gone – just mix equal parts coconut oil and baking soda into a paste. Apply to the “sticky” area and let it set for a minute. Then scrub off with an old toothbrush or the scrubby side of a sponge.

153. Insect repellent – mix coconut oil with peppermint oil extract and rub it all over exposed skin. Keeps insects off better than anything with DEET! Tons safer too.

154. Moisturizing and cleaning leather products

155. Oiling wood cutting boards and wood bowls

156. Polishing Bronze – all you have to do is rub a little oil into a cotton towel and then wipe down the statue. It cleans and helps deepen the color of your bronze.

157. Polish Furniture – coconut oil with a little bit of lemon juice to polish wood furniture. However, I recommend you test it first on a very small, unobtrusive part of your furniture to make sure it works the way you’d like.

158. Seasoning animal hide drums

159. Seasoning cookware

160. Soap making – coconut oil can be used as one of the fats in soap.

Credit to: http://wakeup-world.com/2012/03/02/160-uses-for-coconut-oil/