Lauric Acid

Lauric acid is the chief fatty acid in Coconut Oil. Its monoglyceride, monolaurin, has broad in-vitro activity against bacteria (including Staphylococcus aureus), fungi and viruses. Verallo-Rowell 2008 proposed this as the reason virgin coconut oil cleared S. aureus colonisation in adults with atopic dermatitis better than olive oil. It has not been tested as a decolonising agent in toddlers.

Connections

• Coconut Oil — main fatty acid; proposed antibacterial mechanism, source: Verallo-Rowell 2008
• Staphylococcus aureus — monolaurin active in vitro, source: Verallo-Rowell 2008