Coconut Oil and Bathing Myths in Kerala: Debunked
Many people believe that people in the southern Indian state of Kerala, especially in the coastal region of Kovalam, bathe in coconut oil. This belief has persisted due to misconceptions and filler information on the internet. However, the truth is quite different. Let us debunk these myths and explore the real bathing practices in Kerala.
Myth Busting: Do People in Kerala Bathe in Coconut Oil?
It is a common myth that people in Kerala, particularly those in beaches like Kovalam, take baths in coconut oil. This misconception likely stems from the fact that coconut oil is widely used in Kerala for various personal care routines. The real truth is that people in Kerala DO NOT bathe in coconut or any other oil. They bathe in water, just like anyone else around the world.
Coconut Oil Usage in Kerala
Though there is no truth to the idea of bathing in coconut oil, it is indeed a part of a range of personal care practices in Kerala. People often use coconut oil as a moisturizer. This oil is used to nourish and protect the skin, giving a smooth and healthy look to the hair. It is indeed very cheap, making it a preferred choice for many households in Kerala.
For instance, instead of using shampoo, people in Kerala may rub coconut oil onto their hair prior to washing with water. This practice not only promotes healthy hair but also helps prevent the hair from becoming tangled. Coconut oil can serve as a natural conditioner, promoting a shiny and healthy appearance.
The Cost of Coconut Oil in Kerala
One of the common misconceptions surrounding coconut oil in Kerala is the belief that a litre of coconut oil is extremely expensive. Far from the truth! In reality, coconut oil is quite affordable. As compared to the myth, people in Kerala actually use coconut oil as a natural moisturizer and in various kitchen recipes due to its versatility and affordability.
Practically, a litre of coconut oil in Kerala typically costs around ?200 to ?300, which is very reasonable considering its wide usage in cooking, hair care, and skin care. This cost makes it a popular and easily accessible product for households throughout the state.
Conclusion
Bathing in coconut oil is not a practice in Kerala. Instead, people use this oil for its moisturizing properties, often rubbing it on their skin or hair rather than bathing in it. Coconuts are abundant in Kerala, making coconut oil a cost-effective and widely used product for personal care. Thus, the myth of bathing in coconut oil is just that – a myth, stemming from a misunderstanding of personal care practices in the region.