You might think that coconuts are just something that you see on holiday when you go to a tropical beach. The story behind coconuts is far more complex. For example, the chances are that the beach you are thinking about was probably considered worthless land until tourism arrived. Many island communities have survived economically and in terms of calories by cultivating coconut palms, and it was interior land that was most prized because of this fact.
Nobody is sure where the coconut originated. Coconuts have fallen in the sea and have been carried by tides to everywhere in the tropics and the South Pacific. The coconut takes only 7 years to reach full height. It can survive saline conditions and is resistant to bugs and pests.
The coconut gives off an abundance of fruit. The timber from the palm is also useful for construction and carving out everyday items such as bowls and spoons. The leaves from the palm can be used for roofing and preparing food.
The coconut itself is a misnomer since it is a drupe not a nut. Putting aside nomenclature, the coconut is remarkable as a food source and a source of medicine.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains essential fatty acids that are in medium chain bundles that the body can convert to energy. It is no accident that Thai people who eat lots of coconut oil are slim and Americans who eat polyunsaturated fats are frequently overweight. Coconut oil is also a great source of lauric acid that is antimicrobial. I eat coconut oil twice a week and haven’t caught a cold since I started taking coconut oil regularly.
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk contains coconut oil. It makes delicious curries and soups. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals and makes a good substitute for cow’s milk for people suffering from lactose intolerance. It also helps to prevent lipid disorders in the body.
Coconut Water
Madonna and other celebrities rave about coconut water, and rightly so. It is the best natural isotonic beverage on the planet. It also helps to detox the digestive tract, counteract excess acidity in the diet and can be used to treat urethral stones.
Coconut Flour
Coconut flour is completely free of gluten. It can be used to bake breads and cakes. Since it is high in protein, coconut flour can be added to smoothies to make energy drinks. Coconut flour is also high in fiber and good to keep you regular.
It is remarkable how useful the humble coconut is. It is not just people who benefit from coconuts – dogs can take coconut oil to detox and give shine to their fur. Moreover, coconuts are a renewable resource and so using them is good for the environment. In a small but significant way, coconuts really can help the world.