Coconut oil has been all the rage on the “health nut” scene for a while and its popularity doesn’t seem to be waning any time soon.

The question is, is it worth all the hype?

The answers is absolutely. There are over 1,500 studies proving coconut oil to be a bonafide superfood.

First of all, there is no reason to fear fat. However, just like everything else in life, there are better and worse ways to go about it.

Coconut oil is one of the good guys. It is made of medium-chain-fatty acids and, therefore, is a quality, quickly processed source of fuel when taken internally.

According to Dr. Axe, certified doctor of natural medicine, around 62 percent of the oils in coconut are made up of caprylic acid, lauric acid and capric acid.

These fatty acids are why coconut oil has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

Medical research is showing that coconut oil can help with acne, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, liver function, urinary tract infection, kidney infection, type II diabetes, arthritis and candida just to name a few.

Other benefits are said to include supporting balanced hormones, improved digestion, moisturized skin, cellulite reduction, decreased wrinkles and age spots, balanced blood sugar and improved energy, increased HDL and lowered LDL cholesterol and an increased metabolism.

Here are just 8 popular ways folks like to incorporate coconut oil into their daily routine:

1. Sautéing veggies and meat:

The saturated fat in coconut oil enable it to remain stable in high-heat cooking. The unrefined oil maintains a light coconut taste while refined does not.

You can use coconut oil in place of any other cooking oil. If you’re one of the folks who don’t like coconut, give it a shot anyway. That flavor we’ve come to know as “coconut” in candies and such doesn’t taste like real coconut.

2. “Bulletproof coffee,” anyone?

Instead of using commercial creamers, try blending one teaspoon to one tablespoon of real butter and extravirgin unrefined coconut oil into your coffee. It’s delicious, filling and full of energy. I used to love this although I haven’t had it in quite a while.

3. Mix it into smoothies.

Take into consideration your regular diet, the amount of fat you eat otherwise, and your health goals when deciding if this is a good option for you.

4. Use it in baking, especially desserts.

The subtle flavor is amazing in brownies or other baked goodies and the nature of the oil helps to slow down the release of all that sugar into your bloodstream.

5.Make a delicious homemade chocolate syrup.

Melt the chocolate chips with a little coconut oil and stir until it reaches your desired consistency. Bonus: add cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Yum! Put it on anything. Maybe take a bath in it.

You can also use coconut oil for greasing pans, cooking popcorn, homemade mayo and granola.

6. Moisturizer.

Coconut oil can be used as a face and body lotion. It is solid at room temperature so when you scoop a tiny bit out, rub it into your hands until it melts, then apply.

Coconut oil has a natural SPF of four and it can be used under makeup.

7. Makeup remover or face wash.

Scoop a bit onto a cotton pad and gently rub onto eyelids and lash lines to remove makeup. Use soft circular motions when working it across cheeks or forehead. After you have the bulk of it off, run a washcloth under hot water. Wring out the fabric so it’s not dripping. Lean your head back and drape it over your face.

Breath deep and relax until the warmth is gone. Gently caress your face with the washcloth to remove excess oil and to exfoliate.

Pat dry with another towel. Great for younger looking skin! Fellas, you can do this too.

8. Massage oil.

Great for massages. Mix in a few drops of lavender for a relaxing effect.

9. Oil pulling.

You can swish with a teaspoon of coconut oil for 10 to 20 minutes to clean, detox and condition your mouth. This Ayurvedic technique fights bad breath and helps prevent tooth decay. Do not swallow the oil and do not spit into the sink. Spit it into a trash can.

Coconut oil can be used as a base for toothpaste, mouthwash and deodorant too.

Coconut oil is a functional and healthy oil to have on hand. Purchase the best quality you can for your budget. The best quality is one that is organic, extra-virgin, cold-pressed and unrefined. It’s fairly easy to find organic, unrefined or refined at most stores these days. Keep a jar in the kitchen and a jar in the bathroom.