When you think of coconuts, images of lush tropical islands spring to mind. You might eat coconut from time to time (probably in a curry!) or maybe even drink it in a cocktail, but how many of you consume it regularly and even know the extent of its uses? We’re going to take a look at the different useful parts of a coconut and explore its numerous benefits to find out why it truly is the miracle food.

The coconut is comprised of the husk, or the outer shell, the meat (that yummy white part) and the water, which is obviously the liquid inside. Most people assume that the liquid in the centre is coconut milk, but it is in fact water. Coconut milk does exist, but to get it the meat and water must be boiled together (you learn something new every day!) Also extracted from the meat of the coconut is coconut oil. It really is a versatile fruit if ever I saw one!

Coconut is, of course, primarily a food source. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but its also really nutritious and a great source of protein. The benefits don’t end there, not only can it feed our bodies but it also comes in rather handy for fixing a number of minor health concerns, as well as protecting the body and preventing health problems in the future. Got a sore throat? Coconut milk has been known to help sooth painful sore throats and can also help with stomach ulcers. Its not the most pleasant topic to talk about, but coconut has also been found to help with constipation or any kind of gas buildup in the stomach! Its wonders don’t end there however, coconut water is also great for kidney problems and coconut oil has been used for centuries to heal cuts, grazes, bites and burns.

As well as health benefits, coconut can also be used to beautify. The oil can be used in facials with reported wrinkle-smoothing benefits, and if you’re having a bad hair day a home made mask of coconut oil can banish the frizzies and smooth split ends! Just make sure the oil is 100% natural virgin coconut oil and you aren’t putting any unnecessary chemicals on your face, after all, natural is best!

Once you’ve made yourself beautiful with coconut you can concentrate on using the husk and the outer shell. The shell is often used to make bowls or drinking utensils and is perfect for all those cocktails you’ll be making! Surprisingly enough buttons are also made using coconut shells, so next time you button up that jacket you might have the humble coconut to thank!

Finally, it has been said that coconuts would be the best tool for survival if you were unfortunate enough to find yourself stranded on a desert island. The husk could be used to build shelter or create tools, the meat is full of protein and would be an excellent food source, and if you couldn’t find fresh water to drink, the coconuts water would be an ideal replacement. Not only is coconut water 99% fat free, low in sugar and carbs, but it can also boost the metabolism and help strengthen the immune system. Of course, with coconuts around, you shouldn’t run into any health problems, but if you are unlucky enough to need medical assistance on a desert island, rest assured that coconut water can also be used as an emergency IV drip! Its completely sterile and isotonic, meaning the salts and minerals it contains have the same concentration as the human body!

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This entry was posted on Wednesday, March 17th, 2010 at 11:37 pm and is filed under Blog. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.