Originally available as a dietary formulation in the 1960s, Monolaurin is now available worldwide as a dietary supplement. Research suggests that monolaurin may show potential antimicrobial properties that may be essential in fighting certain diseases.
Health Benefits of Monolaurin
Can help fight various strains of bacteria
Recent research shows that monolaurin has demonstrated antibacterial effects against a wide range of bacteria. According to a 2013 study, researchers found that monolaurin can be effective against antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Commonly, this causes skin infections. Other studies indicate that monolaurin can be effective against other strains of bacteria that cause diarrhea and pneumonia.
Can fight viral diseases
Research recommends that monolaurin may play a role against viruses like SARS-CoV-2. In vitro studies show that monolaurin degrades the outer lipid membrane of viruses, resulting in virus breakdown. A 2015 study showed that daily administration of monolaurin gel could reduce the risk of primates contracting Simian Immunodeficiency Virus.
May inhibit fungal growth
Monolaurin reportedly inhibits the action of fungi such as Candida albicans. Candida albicans, a yeast found in the human body, can be life-threatening in certain situations.
Can boost your immune system
Monolaurin can play an active role in stimulating the immune system. Studies have reported that monolaurin can boost the immune system by regulating the production of T lymphocytes and the growth of immune cells. These are white blood cells that are essential for the immune system to function.
May help fight Lyme disease
A 2015 in vitro study tested the effects of monolaurin against Borellia garinii, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease. The study found that monolaurin, along with baicalein, a type of polyphenol, was very effective at fighting the bacteria.
May play a part against skin infections
Researches claim that monolaurin can fight against certain bacteria which cause skin infections like atopic dermatitis. A laboratory study was conducted to see the effect of monolaurin and conventional antibiotics against microbes of skin infections. The study found that monolaurin was highly effective in fighting these bacteria.
May benefit your digestive wellbeing
Monolaurin can be effective at inactivating bacteria that cause stomach infections. A study was conducted to see the effect of monoglyceride on helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that infects the stomach. Monolaurin showed the highest antibacterial activity against helicobacter pylori of all the monoglycerides.
Monolaurin side effects
While monolaurin is largely considered safe for food consumption and diet, it is not yet approved for use in treating any medical condition. Since the known monolaurin side effects is coconut allergy, people with coconut allergy must avoid monolaurin from coconut products.
To be safe, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and those diagnosed with serious medical conditions must consult a doctor before taking monolaurin.