Antimicrobial Activity
Studied against bacteria grown in culture, including bacteria that form biofilms.
Science Meets Nature
Monolaurin: The Complete Guide to Coconut’s Signature Compound
Discover what monolaurin is, how it is made, what laboratory research examines, and the forms you can buy. A simple guide to get you started — not medical advice.
Naturally DerivedFrom coconut oil
Backed by ResearchA growing body of science
Versatile UseInternal & topical
A Cleaner ChoiceThoughtfully made
The Essentials
What Is Monolaurin?
Monolaurin is a compound formed when lauric acid binds with glycerol, which is why it is also called glycerol monolaurate (GML). Lauric acid comes from coconut oil and other fats. When a single lauric acid molecule attaches to one glycerol molecule, it forms a monoester known as monolaurin. It has also been identified in human milk, where one study measured glycerol monolaurate at roughly 3,000 micrograms per milliliter.
- Derived from lauric acid found in coconut oil
- Also occurs naturally in human milk
- “Monolaurin” and “glycerol monolaurate” are the same molecule
From Lauric Acid to Monolaurin
How Is Monolaurin Made From Lauric Acid?
Monolaurin is created through a well-understood process called esterification.
1
Start With Lauric Acid
Lauric acid is separated and purified from a fat like coconut oil.
2
Combine With Glycerol
The purified lauric acid is mixed with glycerol in a reaction called esterification.
3
Create Monolaurin
The result is monolaurin — a specific ester, not the same as coconut oil.
Science, Nature, a Brighter You
A Remarkable Compound From a Remarkable Source
Monolaurin brings together the purity of a coconut-derived ingredient and the curiosity of ongoing laboratory science. Because it is made through esterification, applying or eating coconut oil does not give you a set amount of monolaurin — purity and methods differ from one supplier to the next.
What Research Shows
What Has Laboratory Research Studied About Monolaurin?
Most of this work is done in vitro — outside the body, in a dish or culture. Some is done in animals, and human research is more limited. The findings point to possible mechanisms under specific test conditions, nothing beyond that.
Biofilms
Examined for how it interacts with biofilms under laboratory conditions.
Cell Membranes
Observed interacting with lipid-enveloped microorganisms and cell membranes.
Inflammatory Processes
Looked at for effects on inflammatory responses in test settings.
Read this research fairly
- Most cited evidence is laboratory or preclinical.
- Testing an ingredient on its own does not prove a finished cosmetic behaves the same way.
- No disease-treatment conclusion should be drawn from these studies.
Safety First
What Is Known About Monolaurin’s Safety?
How safe monolaurin is depends on the situation — the format, concentration, full formula, and how the product is used. Oral supplements and topical cosmetics are not the same, so directions for one should not be used for the other. Skin tolerance comes down to the complete formula, not monolaurin by itself.
- Depends on format, concentration, and full formula
- Oral and topical products are not interchangeable
- Follow the label on the product you actually buy
- Patch test first if your skin is sensitive
Compare Your Options
How Do Monolaurin Supplements and Topical Products Differ?
Feature
Monolaurin supplement
Topical monolaurin
Form
Capsules, powders, or pellets
Serums, creams, or gels
Use
Taken orally
Applied externally
Exposure
Systemic
Localized
Directions
Based on the supplement label
Based on the topical product label
Evidence
Oral research where available
Topical or formulation-specific research
Main caution
No universal dosage advice
No treatment or healing claims
Research on one format does not automatically transfer to the other.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Monolaurin is a different compound, formed when lauric acid combines with glycerol.
Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid but is not the same as purified, standardized monolaurin.
It is used as an ingredient in research, oral supplements, and topical products, and is not a treatment for any disease.
That depends on the product and its label, so follow the directions for the specific item you own.
There is no universal amount, so use the quantity on your product label and ask a healthcare professional for personal supplement guidance.
Still have questions? Contact our team.
Our Sources
References
A selection of peer-reviewed research referenced on this page.
-
1
(2015). Non-aqueous glycerol monolaurate gel exhibits antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. PLOS ONE, 10(3), e0120280
doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0120280 -
2
(2019). Glycerol monolaurate contributes to the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity of human milk. Scientific Reports, 9, 14550
doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-51130-y -
3
(2012). Glycerol monolaurate antibacterial activity in broth and biofilm cultures. PLOS ONE, 7(7), e40350
doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0040350 -
4
(2016). Glycerol monolaurate (GML) inhibits human T cell signaling and function by disrupting lipid dynamics. Scientific Reports, 6, 30225
doi.org/10.1038/srep30225
Go Deeper
