What's the big deal about coconut oil?

I've been hearing a lot of coconut oil hype lately.  For feeding my sensitive baby, I eliminated butter (or anything with soy and dairy) and corn--so canola oil is also out.  I am pretty much left with olive oil.  A very health-conscious friend of mine says olive oil turns rancid at high temperatures where coconut oil does not.  She raves about what a healthy fat it was and how it has improved her hair and skin.

So I decided to try it.  You can't believe everything you hear... or everything you read on the internet for that matter.  But here's a little bit of research.  To see why coconut oil is the healthiest on earth, click here.  Another website really breaks down the health benefits of coconut oil.  Some examples are hair and skin care, stress relief, immunity, dental care... to only name a few!

I read a bunch of reviews on Amazon before purchasing, and so far I'm happy with the Nutiva brand of coconut oil we selected.  We've tried it in scrambled eggs, sauteed asparagus (yum!), corn bread, muffins and pancakes.  It has a bit of a coconut flavor, which was a delicate addition to the asparagus.

This week I put a little on my four-year-old angel's dry hands and a bit on the baby's scratched cheek.  I was surprised that the baby's cheek looked almost brand new after his nap.  It worked quickly!  I also put coconut oil on a skinned knee with good results.  I'm pleased with the way my face feels after using it as a night moisturizer. (Editor's note: I'm a little skeptical on this part, but I did see the redness around the baby's scratches reduced by the oil.  Maybe there are other natural oils that would work similarly, but with the baby's many skin problems and food sensitivities, coconut oil is a likely option for us and could work for others, sensitivities or not.)

I read about how eating a teaspoon a day is so great for you, so I tried it.  I do NOT recommend this!  I guess I shouldn't believe everything I read. :)

Would love to hear your tips on coconut oil as we experiment with adding it into our diet.
~ Katrina