Fractionated Coconut Oil: Uses, Benefits, and Safety

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Fractionated coconut oil is a product that comes from regular coconut oil. But, it has had the lauric acid removed. The process is called fractionation that separates different types of fats that are found in some oils.

This oil is derived by processing and refining virgin coconut oil. Initially, pure coconut oil has to undergo hydrolysis. Then, it needs to go through steam distillation to become fractionated. [1]

Both the pure oil and fractionated coconut oil are rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). But, fractionated coconut oil contains only caprylic acid and capric acid.

Fractionated coconut oil has no odor, taste, and it’s generally pricier than regular coconut oil. This oil remains liquid in room temperature.

This article looks into some benefits, uses, and side effects of fractionated coconut oil.

Benefits of Fractionated Coconut Oil

The medium chain fatty acids and antioxidants make this oil quite beneficial for health and beauty. As the long-chain triglycerides are discarded, fractionated coconut oil has gain stability and longer shelf life.

Here are the potential uses and benefits of fractionated coconut oil:

1. Fractionated Coconut Oil is Good for Skin.

Fractionated coconut oil is a popular ingredient in the skincare industry. [2]

Manufacturers use this oil to make lotions, creams, lip balm, and soap.

Topical application of this oil can make your skin soft and supple. It’s antioxidant properties help reduce aging sign.

2. It May Help You Lose Weight.

A diet contains fractionated coconut oil may help you in losing weight, thanks to MCTs.

Several studies replaced other fats with MCTs in the diet.

Some studies showed the effects of MCTs in reducing appetite and controlling food intake. [3,4]

Research published in 2003 shows that MCTs can help you burn more calories and fat. [5]

Several other studies were done to support this fact. [6,7,8]

Note that, about half of these studies were backed by MCT oil product. So, there is a possibility that the results are biased.

3. Fractionated Coconut Oil May Improve Exercise Performance.

Fractionated coconut oil is claimed to provide an alternative energy source during exercise.

A study published in 2009 shows a small amount of MCTs can increase the duration of high-intensity exercise. [9]

There were two more studies to evaluate MCTs efficacy in improving exercise performance. [10, 11] But the evidence was too weak to prove this fact.

4. It May Help Diabetic Patients.

Fractionated coconut oil may be helpful to those who have overweight diabetes.

A study published in 2007 reported that MCTs might decrease insulin resistance in patients with type-2 diabetes. [12]

More studies are required to confirm this fact.

5. Fractionated Coconut Oil is Good for Hair.

Fractionated coconut oil is gaining popularity as a hair care product. [13]

It’s because this oil is light and doesn’t make your hair sticky. If you have a problem with the strong aroma of virgin coconut oil, you can use fractionated coconut oil.

Mixing this oil with jojoba oil or olive oil will restore the hydration to your scalp. You will be able to manage your frizzy and dry hair.

6. It Can Heal Wounds.

Due to its mild antibacterial properties, fractionated coconut oil can help in healing skin wounds. [14]

Mixing it with some essential oils such as tea tree oil can help it work as a potent antibacterial solution. Topical application of this oil on wounds mix may prevent infection.

7. Fractionated Coconut Oil May Help in Epilepsy Treatment.

Children with epilepsy can be benefitted by consuming fractionated coconut oil.

Ketogenic diet is one of the most effective therapies for epilepsy. Research showed adding MCTs in ketogenic diet may let the patient eat more carbs and protein. It makes it easier for them to stick to the diet. [15,16]

8. It May Help with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Fractionated coconut oil may help people with Alzheimer’s disease.

A study published in 2014 shows MCTs may improve the brain function of those with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. [17]

Scientists need to do more studies to make this statement strong.

How to Use Fractionated Coconut Oil

Here are some common uses of fractionated coconut oil:

You can use fractionated coconut oil as a carrier oil for essential oils.
This oil usually doesn’t become rancid. So you can use it as cooking oil.
You can take it as a dietary supplement. The recommended dosage is 1-3 tablespoons every day.
You can use fractionated coconut oil as a skin moisturizer, massage oil, and hair conditioner.
Massage some fractionated coconut oil on your skin to make it prepared for shaving.

Fractionated Coconut Oil Vs. Virgin Coconut Oil: Which One to Use for Cooking?

There are some controversies regarding the safety of fractionated coconut oil for consumption. This oil is safe as cooking oil. But, it lacks lauric acid.

Lauric acid possesses numerous health benefits. It can fight against bacteria, virus, as well as infections. [18]

On the other hand, virgin coconut oil has lauric acid. So, it’s wiser to choose virgin coconut oil for cooking purpose.

Side Effects of Fractionated Coconut Oil

Most people consider this oil safe for consumption. But, some people reported digestive problems such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting.

This problem is quite common in children, especially those who get MCTs in their ketogenic diet. [16]

There have been a few cases of allergy to coconut oil. But, these cases are quite rare. [19, 20]

If you’re allergic to coconut or its oil, consuming fractionated coconut oil may have negative effects on you.

Bottom Line

Fractionated coconut oil is quite popular as its odorless and always stays liquid.

The two medium chain fatty acids in it can help in losing weight while providing other health benefits. But, you may have missed some other benefits of regular coconut oil as the lauric acid is removed.

While it comes with numerous health benefits, it may also work against you due to excessive consumption.

But, considering the uses and benefits it offers, you may want to give it a try.