Coconut oil for wounds: does it facilitate healing?

The coconut oil contains several compounds that, in theory, may support the different stages of wound healing. Lauric acid, one of its major fatty acids, has demonstrated antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria, notably Staphylococcus aureus, which is frequently implicated in skin infections. This property is particularly relevant in the context of wounds, where bacterial contamination can delay tissue repair and prolong local inflammation.

Beyond its antimicrobial effect, the coconut oil appears to act on several key biological mechanisms of wound healing. Experimental studies suggest it may promote faster wound closure by stimulating fibroblast proliferation, the synthesis and reorganisation of collagen, as well as neovascularisation — processes essential for dermal reconstruction. Its anti-inflammatory activity would also help modulate the initial inflammatory phase, while its antioxidant properties, combined with increased antioxidant enzyme activity and reduced lipid peroxidation, could limit the oxidative stress within the injured tissue. Controlling the oxidative environment is important, as excess free radicals can impair the cells involved in repair.

Finally, the lipid composition of coconut oil, rich in medium-chain triglycerides, contributes to the maintenance of a moist environment favourable to wound healing. By forming a mild occlusive film, it minimises transepidermal water loss and supports the restoration of the skin barrier. This action may also help soften scabs and reduce superficial fissures that could disrupt the repair process.

The combination of these antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and structural mechanisms suggests that coconut oil may hold promise for supporting wound healing.

The scientific data available on coconut oil and wound healing remain limited, but some preliminary experimental and clinical studies suggest a potentially interesting effect. However, the majority of investigations have been conducted on animal models or involve small human cohorts, which necessitates a cautious interpretation of the results.

An experimental study published in 2018 by Das and colleagues assessed the effect of the topical application of virgin coconut oil on wound healing in rats rendered diabetic, a model used to mimic chronic ulcers associated with diabetes. Seventy-two animals were allocated to four groups: untreated non-diabetic controls, untreated diabetic controls, diabetic rats treated with coconut oil and diabetic rats treated with a silver sulfadiazine cream. After the induction of standardised wounds, the researchers monitored the rate of wound closure over 14 days and performed histological analyses.

The results showed that coconut oil significantly increased the rate of wound closure at all measured time points compared with untreated diabetic animals.

Histological analysis revealed a more rapid re-epithelialisation and an increase in collagen content. The total protein content of the scar tissue was also higher in the "coconut oil" group, suggesting enhanced support for tissue reconstruction. In contrast, the effects on superoxide dismutase activity, an antioxidant enzyme marker, were deemed non-significant. The authors conclude that coconut oil may promote diabetic wound healing primarily by stimulating structural repair mechanisms.

Human data also exist, albeit more limited. A study published in 2017 investigated the use of coconut oil on surgical wounds following palatoplasty, a surgical procedure that corrects anomalies of the palate. Six patients received a local application of coconut oil after wound closure. The authors report an accelerated healing, an increased number of fibroblasts observed at the wound site and a reduction in patient-reported pain. However, the very small sample size and the absence of a control group greatly limit the strength of the conclusions.

Overall, these studies suggest a plausible biological effect of coconut oil on certain wound-healing parameters, although further clinical studies are still needed.

If coconut oil can help maintain a moist environment favourable to minor wounds and offer some antimicrobial protection, it is not a suitable solution for all types of injuries. Its emollient and antibacterial properties may be relevant for scrapes or superficial cuts, but deeper, extensive or surgical wounds require a more rigorous approach, including strict disinfection, sterile dressings and, if necessary, treatments prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Moreover, the direct application of pure coconut oil to an open wound—without prior disinfection or medical supervision—is not recommended. By forming an occlusive film, it may trap existing bacteria and delay healing if contamination occurs. Any wound exhibiting signs of infection—extensive redness, increasing pain, purulent discharge or fever—should undergo medical evaluation. In such cases, coconut oil may possibly be used as an adjunct to appropriate care, but must in no way substitute for validated medical treatments.

• RAJAMOHAN T. & al. Effect of topical application of virgin coconut oil on skin components and antioxidant status during dermal wound healing in young rats. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology (2010).

• SYAFRIZAYANTI S. & al. Beneficial effect of application of virgin coconut oil (VCO) product from Padang West Sumatra, Indonesia on palatoplasty wound healing. American Scientific Research Journal for Engineering, Technology, and Sciences (2017).

• SANTIAGO J. L. & al. Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils. International Journal of Cosmetic Sciences (2017).

• DAS S. & al. Virgin coconut oil and diabetic wound healing: Histopathological and biochemical analysis. European Journal of Anatomy (2018).

• GEW L. T. & al. A comprehensive review of plant-based cosmetic oils (virgin coconut oil, olive oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil): Chemical and biological properties and their cosmeceutical applications. ACS Omega (2024).