Coconut oil for wounds: does it promote healing?

The coconut oil contains several compounds that, in theory, can support the different phases of the wound healing. Lauric acid, one of its major fatty acids, has demonstrated antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria, notably Staphylococcus aureus, which is frequently involved 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 that it may promote faster wound closure by stimulating fibroblast proliferation, the synthesis and reorganization of collagen, as well as neovascularization—essential processes 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. This control of the oxidative environment is important, as an excess of free radicals can impair the cells involved in repair.

Finally, the lipid composition of coconut oil, rich in medium-chain triglycerides, contributes to maintaining a moist environment conducive to healing. By forming a mild occlusive film, it reduces transepidermal water loss and supports the restoration of the skin barrier. This action may also help soften crusts and reduce superficial cracks that can interfere with the repair process.

Taken together, these mechanisms—antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and structural—suggest that coconut oil could be beneficial for supporting wound healing.

Available scientific data on coconut oil and wound healing are still limited, but some preliminary experimental and clinical studies suggest a potentially interesting effect. However, most research involves animal models or small human samples, which necessitates a cautious interpretation of the results.

An experimental study published in 2018 by DAS and his team evaluated the effect of topically applied virgin coconut oil on wound healing in diabetic rats, a model used to mimic the chronic ulcers associated with diabetes. Seventy-two animals were divided into four groups: untreated non-diabetic controls, untreated diabetic controls, diabetic rats treated with coconut oil, and diabetic rats treated with silver sulfadiazine cream. After standardized wounds were induced, the researchers tracked the closure rate over 14 days and conducted histological analyses.

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

Histological analysis revealed a faster re-epithelialization and increased 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, effects on superoxide dismutase activity, an enzymatic antioxidant 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, though more limited. A 2017 study examined the use of coconut oil on surgical wounds following palatoplasty, a surgical procedure to correct palate abnormalities. Six patients received a topical application of coconut oil after wound closure. The authors report accelerated healing, an increase in the number of fibroblasts observed at the wound site, and reduced pain reported by patients. However, the very small sample size and the absence of a control group severely limit the scope 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.

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

Moreover, applying pure coconut oil directly to an open wound without prior disinfection or medical oversight is not recommended. By creating an occlusive barrier, it can trap existing bacteria and delay healing if contamination is present. Any wound showing signs of infection—widespread redness, increasing pain, purulent discharge, or fever—requires medical evaluation. In these situations, coconut oil may be used as an adjunct to appropriate care, but should in no way replace 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).