Coconut oil is extracted from dried coconut kernel, known as copra, from the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera). It contains a high proportion of medium-chain fatty acids, particularly lauric acid, which gives the oil excellent stability and antimicrobial properties. Coconut oil is widely used in cooking, baking, and frying, especially in tropical regions where it is a dietary staple. In addition to food, it plays a significant role in cosmetics, personal care, and pharmaceuticals as a natural moisturizer and ingredient in soaps, creams, and hair oils.

Coconut oil is also utilized in industrial applications such as surfactants and biodiesel production. Its versatility has made it a sought-after product in household and commercial markets. The Philippines, Indonesia, and India are the leading producers, driving global supply. With rising demand for natural, plant-based oils, coconut oil continues to hold a strong position in the global edible and non-edible oil economy.