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Coconut
Herbal Remedies and Medicinal Cures for Diseases, Ailments & Illnesses that afflict Humans and Animals
Aloe Vera •
Astragalus •
Bankoro •
Bilberry •
Bitter Gourd (Ampalaya) •
Bitter Orange •
Black Cohosh •
Cat's Claw •
Chamomile •
Chasteberry •
Coconut •
Cranberry •
Dandelion •
Echinacea •
Ephedra •
European Elder Tree •
Evening Primrose •
Fenugreek •
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Flaxseed •
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Peppermint Oil •
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Ringworm Bush (Akapulko) – Cassia alata •
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St. John's Wort •
Tawa Tawa •
Turmeric •
Valerian •
Yohimbe •
accept the bitter to get better
 Coconut Pandak 4years old | |
 Dwarf Coconut 4 years old | |
 Harvested Coconuts. Some are already husked. Ready to be split and baked. | |
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 Husked Coconut | |
 Split Coconut | |
 Dwarf coconut grove |
Coconut The Giving Tree
by Franklin H. Maletsky
Coconut tree
The common names for the coconut are coconut palm, coco palm, and of course the coconut tree. The scientific name is cocos nucifera. The scientific name cocos nucifera was derived from the Portuguese language. Cocos is Portuguese for monkey, in reference to the face that appears on the stripped nut. Nucifera means nut bearing. The coconut tree is an ever giving tree. Almost every part of the coconut tree is useful. The Coconut Palm or coconut tree (Cocos nucifera) is the only species in the cocos family that grows to 30 meters or almost 100 feet tall. The term coconut refers to the fruit of the coconut palm or coconut tree.
Coconut trunk
The coconut trunk can be used for lumber. In most of the countries where coconut trees are grown, the coconut tree is protected by the government due to rampant harvesting even of young coconut trees for coco lumber. The coconut tree can live to over 60 years. The coconut trunk narrows as it towers to the sky and close to 100 feet tall. The older the coconut tree, the better it is for lumber. The old coconut trunk can be so tough that a 4" nail would bend as it is hammered in. The softest part of the coconut trunk is the middle since it is the newest growth or part of the tree. The coconut trunk gets harder and tougher as it moves away from the center. The hardest part of the coconut trunk is the part immediately under the coconut tree skin because it is the oldest part of the coconut tree.
Coconut sap
The coconut sap is used to produce coconut wine, coconut vinegar and coconut gel. The sap of the coconut is gathered from the unopened coconut bud. The coconut bud is cylindrical in shape that tapers at the top and bottom (like a torpedo). The tip of the bud is cut with a sharp blade before it opens to flower. The coconut bud is then secured with strings around it from the top to bottom so that it may not open and flower. A container is then positioned to receive the dripping coconut sap from the cut bud. The sap is collected daily and the bud is cut again or "bled". The cut is usually about an eighth of an inch per day. A mature coconut tree can yield up to a gallon of sap daily. Some people like to drink the coconut sap fresh from the coconut tree. Others prefer to drink it after it ferments for a few hours thereby raising the alcoholic content of the sap. When this coconut sap is distilled it can produce about 96 proof coconut wine.
Coconut leaves
The coconut leaf is used for several things. firewood, broom, thatch roof, baskets, and other containers.
Coconut fruit
| From the coconut fruit derives the: | |||||
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Coconut Meat
The most common product of the coconut meat is coconut oil. There are three ways of making coconut oil; one is RBD (Refined, Bleached & Deodorized), home cooking, cold pressed. The RBD oil is produced (by large factories) from copra (dried coconut meat). Making copra is accomplished by drying the meat either by sun or by fire. Home cooking is accomplished by grating the coconut meat, squeezing the juice out of it, then cooking the juice in a pan over an open fire. Cold pressed is where VCO (virgin coconut oil) comes from. This method can be home made or commercialized by big factories.
Virgin Coconut Oil
Cold pressed coconut meat from the mature coconut produces VCO. You can use a blender or a food processor to grind the coconut meat. Get a clean empty glass jar. Put a cloth filter at the mouth of the jar. Squeeze the shredded coconut meat and let the coconut juice (milk) flow into the jar through the filter. This coconut milk is approximately 40% oil.
Let it sit for about 24 hours and the VCO will separate from the water. After it sits for 24 hours the coconut cream will divide into three parts.
- The very top (about 25%) will be the cream (Curd). The curd is soft but solid enough that you can simply scoop it out.
- do not throw away. You can use it for cooking.
- The middle part about 40% will be the oil.
- The bottom part is water.
- Do not throw away the water separated from the oil. You can still use it for medicinal value. It will help soften skin.
After clearing or scooping out the curd, the best way to pour out the water would be to refrigerate the content in the jar. (Below 76F* [24*C] VCO will solidify) The VCO at the top of the jar will harden and the water will be at the bottom. Break the hardened VCO in half and pour out the water. Now you have pure VCO. Store the VCO in a cool area and the VCO will turn liquid again. (At 76F* [24*C] and above VCO will liquefy.
Coconut shell
Used for ornamental products and charcoal. Used as a piggybank.
Used as a bowl: When the coconut is split in half, with the "eyes" facing up or down, the other half without the "eyes" can be used a bowl. The bottom of this half shell is not flat so it leans to the side. In order to use the half coconut shell as a serving bowl a base must be made. The base is usually made out of any piece of wood (4"x4"x2"). The center of this base is carved out, so there is a hole in a form of a circle in this base. The coconut bowl is then placed in this hole of the base. It is a perfect fit. The hot soup in the bowl won't spill as it passed around the table.
buttons from Coconut shells
Halved Coconut Shells
Old coconut shell on Beach
Kalamay Packed in coconut shell
Coconut dipper and tea set
Coconut flowers
 coconuts |
Most coconuts are self-pollinating. The coconut tree continuously bears flowers.
The coconut flower starts off as a pod or bud shaped like a torpedo. When the coconut bud opens there are several pistils. The pistils are connected to the stem of the flower and they are staggered. The stem where the pistils come out can be 10 to 12 inches long. Each pistil that extends out from the stem is about 10 to 16 inches long. The coconut flower looks like an oak tree without leaves. There are several "seeds" in each of these pistils. Not all the "seeds" mature. Each of these seeds that mature turn into the coconut fruit. There can be 5 to 12 coconuts attached to the coconut flower. After the harvest, these coconut flowers are sometimes used as brooms or rakes. |
Coconut Husks
The husk is the outer layer of the coconut. The coconut husk surrounds the coconut shell. The skin of the coconut husk is very smooth.
Coconut Coir
The fiber between the outer shell and the skin of the husk is called the coir. Coir is twisted and prepared to be made into rope. The coconut coir is used for flower pots, filters, seat cushions, and other creative things.
Rewinding of coconut coir pith rope
rolled Rope made from Coconut Coir
Ropes from Coconut Coir
Coconut root
The coconut tree does not have a tap (prime) root. The root system of the coconut tree is fibrous. The coconut root is about 1/3 of an inch thick. Used as medicinal concoction for stomach aches Some of the uses of the coconut root:
- Medicine for diarrhea (dysentery)
- Dye
- I remember using the root also as toothbrush. Get a root and fray it. Usually available only from coconuts with partially exposed root system.
Coconut "Blanket"
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As the coconut grows, the very tip or the shoot of the coconut is surrounded by this "blanket". It looks like a woven thread, it is interlaced. As the leaves form and grow out, this blanket surrounds the trunk of the coconut tree. As the leaves grow old and fall out of the tree so does the "blanket". The common folks use this "ginete" as a natural filter. In fact the "tuba" or coconut sap gatherers use this "blanket" as a filter to filter the "tuba" before they pour it into the final container. |
Virgin Coconut oil the best antidote against obesity and diabetes
By MEDIATRIX P. CRISTOBAL
For several decades, man's search for sensible weight loss program remained futile. People buy to the hype of fast, exercise-free diet pills, and often times end up either frustrated because of unfulfilled results, or worse with yo-yo effects.
Dr. Nestor Fuertes, a respected Australia-based Filipino doctor and Virgin Coconut oil advocate, said the most effective weight loss supplement had been right under our noses – the VCO. "The difference with VCO (compared to other diet pills) is that you take it, it basically feeds your cell immediately. The fats are instantly converted into energy, so no fats deposited in your body." He added.
Foods taken everyday, such as pork or hamburger, usually contain bad fats, which are deposited and accumulated in the body - usually in the mid-torso section, or locally known as "bilbil."
VCO's medium chain triglyceride is the good kind of fat, set highly apart from all the other fats found in our everyday food. "Once we actually swallow the VCO, it immediately goes to the liver and it will be redistributed immediately into the cell. It repels attraction with fats…after it is absorbed by the cell, it is immediately converted to energy." He explained.
He added that VCO has a thermogenic effects on the body, that slowly, but effectively increases the body's metabolic rate making it easier for the body to burn fats and perform better. VCO is famous for the plethora of health benefits it offers. Over the years, it gained popularity and has been ubiquitous in the local grocery aisles. It is only recently that health practitioners advocate on its potential slimming effects. Typically, an individual taking VCO regularly may lose 4 to 6 pounds in just a month.
He cited a study in a prestigious university in Australia which notes overweight men who took high doses of VCO have lost a significant 3-4 kilograms in just four months. But Fuertes said such pace is not usually recommended, because high doses of VCO causes loose motion syndrome and 4-6 pounds weight loss is too drastic for the body system.
Fuertes recommends taking 1 to 2 tablespoons of VCO at least half an hour before meals. Anyone who've just been introduced to VCO may start with a lower dosage of ½ teaspoon. A person needs to take the required dose twice a day to achieve the desired results, he said. Though it has no claims of any therapeutic effects, VCO's potential to cleanse clogged arteries out of the bad fats had been proven effective not only here. His patients abroad have testimonies about the effects of VCO in their health and wellness.
"VCO may actually push you right back into being normal and healthy," he added. He cited too much fat deposit in the body retards its functions and is oftenly manifested in the fastest growing lifestyle diseases nowadays known as obesity.
The 2006 world health organization figures said that 3.3 million Filipino female's aged between 20 to 25 are over-weight. Half of them are obese. About 1.2 million Filipino males on the other hand are overweight and half of them are obese. What makes the figures alarming is it occurs to population who are at their productive stage, peaking at the age 35 and half of these obese population are likely to be diabetic, hypertensive and are at risk of heart attack.
"Why do we need to get into this stage before we do something?" he said. "Taking 2 tablespoon of VCO twice a day coupled with a sensible diet and exercise may stop you from progressing from being obese to hypertensive, diabetic, etc,." he advised.
- Dr. Conrado Dayrit, eminent Cardiologist, Professor Emeritus at the University of the Philippines, and then President of the Philippine Heart Association, published a book entitled “The Truth About Coconut Oil, The Drugstore in a Bottle”. Dr. Dayrit published..
- “Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) prevents HEART DISEASE. Coconut oil, like other vegetable oils, has no cholesterol. In fact, VCO intake in substantial amounts keeps cholesterol low, between 170 and 200 milligrams per deciliter, by promoting the conversion of cholesterol into pregnenolone to be utilized in the production of adrenal and sex hormones. VCO’s cholesterol-lowering effect is a regulatory action since it can also beneficially raise cholesterol when it is too low for the body’s needs, thus maintaining the healthy ratio between low density lipoprotein-cholesterol and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C).
- On the other hand, the lowering of total cholesterol by the omega-6 oils (corn and soybean oils) is not beneficial since it also lowers the good HDL-C, subsequently depositing the lost oxidized cholesterol in the arterial plaque, which could clog the arteries. While statins block cholesterol synthesis, this does not address the inflammatory nature of atherosclerosis. VCO does, having the ability to kill major types of atherogenic bacteria and viruses in the blood while exhibiting anti-inflammatory action in synergy with omega-3 fatty acids."
News About Coconut
Medical wonders of Coconut oil
- By Saidat Buraimoh
The scientific name for the fruit is cocos nucifera. Early Spanish explorers called it coco, which means “monkey face” because the three indentations (eyes) on the hairy nut, which resemble the head and face of a monkey. Nucifera means “nut-bearing.” Many people consume coconut without the knowledge of its various nutritional benefits. These are not limited to the coconut meat but also the coconut water, the coconut milk and the coconut oil. Coconut is one of the wonder foods on earth that amply provide most human needs with the attendant health benefits. Stressing the importance of coconut fruit, Dr. Mary G.Enig, a Biochemist and Nutritionist, in a paper titled ‘Coconut: In support of good health in the 21st century’, said,“Coconut products when used for inedible and especially edible uses are of the great importance for the health of the entire world. ‘Coconut plays a unique role in the diets of mankind because it is a source of important physiologically functional components. These physiological functional components are found in the fat part of the whole coconut, in the fat part of desiccated coconut, and in the extracted coconut oil.” The Coconut Research Center also asserts that coconut is highly nutritious and rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals and classified as a functional food because it provides many health benefits beyond its nutritional contents. Coconut water, according to research, is completely pure, sterile and an excellent source of hydration. While every part of coconut fruit remains nutritious and highly medicinal, coconut oil has been recorded to be highly remarkable medicated oil. According to scientists, coconut oil is considered the best and safest oil to use for cooking — even superior to extra virgin olive oil; when it comes to giving the body what it needs for optimum health. Unlike other fats and oils that are typically use for cooking and baking, coconut oil does not form polymerised oils or dangerous trans fatty acids in the body, which can raise our cholesterol levels; clog arteries and even make skin sag and wrinkle. Rather this ultra-safe oil gives the body important antioxidants that can help build stronger cells and improve overall health and wellbeing. The Coconut Research Center avers that “Coconut oil is of special interest because it possesses healing properties far beyond that of any other dietary oil and is extensively used in medicine. Similarly, Dr. Enig contends that coconut oil is important because of its Lauric oil which contains unique characteristics such as antiviral, antibacterial and antiprotozoal for both food industry uses and cosmetic industries. “Research has also shown that natural coconut (oil) diet leads to a normalisation of body lipids, protects against alcohol damage to the liver and improves immune system’s anti inflammatory responses. There are also new benefits of coconut with major functional properties for antimicrobial and anti-cancer effects, ” Enig explained in the paper. According to the Coconut Research Center, the following are among the Modern Medical Science proven health benefits of coconut oil. Coconut oil kills viruses that cause influenza, herpes, measles, hepatitis C, SARS, AIDS and other illnesses. Coconut oil kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, gum disease and cavities, pneumonia, and gonorrhea. Coconut oil kills fungi and yeasts that cause ringworm, athlete’s foot, thrush, diaper rash and other infections. It also helps to expel or kill tapeworms, lice, giardia and other parasites. It provides a nutritional source of quick energy, boosting energy and endurance and enhancing physical and athletic performance. Coconut oil also improves digestion and absorption of other nutrients including vitamins, minerals and amino acids. It helps to improve insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose. Coconut oil relieves stress on pancreas and enzyme systems of the body, reduces symptoms associated with pancreatitis as well as reducing symptoms and health risks associated with diabetes. It was also discovered to improve calcium and magnesium absorption and supports the development of strong bones and teeth. It Improves digestion and bowel function as well as relieves pain and irritation caused by hemorrhoids. It helps to protect the body from breast, colon, and other cancers. It is also healthy for the heart; for it improves cholesterol ratio which reduces the risk of heart diseases and helps to protect the body from harmful free radicals that promote premature aging and degenerative disease. Coconut oil has been noted to dissolve kidney stones; help prevent liver disease; promotes loss of excess weight by increasing metabolic rate, therefore preventing obesity and overweight problems. Coconut oil supports the natural chemical balance of the skin, reduces symptoms associated with the psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis; softens skin and helps relieve dryness and flaking. It also prevents wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots; it promotes healthy looking hair and complexion and provides protection from damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Coconut oil has no harmful or discomforting side effects; does not form harmful by-products when heated to normal cooking temperature like other vegetable oils do and it is completely non-toxic to humans.
4 Reasons Why We Love Coconuts
- By Alexandra Chang
From its butter to its water—the mighty coconut may be the perfect food.
Considered a fruit, a nut, and a seed (though technically in the drupe family), the coconut is one of those addicting foods that you can never get enough of. The palm is also called the “Tree of Life” because every single part of the plant can be used to make everything from milk to musical instruments. It’s a good thing the coconut lives up to its weighty name, providing the world with delicious retreats into coconut-food heaven. Here’s the low-down on the health benefits, how to bake up delicious coconut cake, and whip up beauty applications, and why everyone is obsessing over this fuzzy, brown food.
- Quenching Thirst
Coconut water is getting more grocery attention, and not only at the health-food stores. The refreshing drink comes from young, green coconuts and has been touted as electrolyte-packed and a great sub-in for maintstream sports drinks such as Gatorade. For instance, Zico Coconut water has 61 milligrams of potassium compared to the 3.75 in Gatorade, although the coconut water does have about 8 milligrams less sodium per ounce. VN Food Editor Jennifer Chen tries to drink coconut water as much as possible, especially when she’s running. “It’s more hydrating than water and tastes better than mainstream sports drinks to me,” she says. For the avid athletes out there, or just those who hate being dehydrated (hopefully everyone), coconut water is an excellent staple to carry along wherever you go.
- Buttery Goodness
Not exactly the angel of the fat world, coconut oil and butter have gone through a rollercoaster ride of reputations. Now it’s back on top, mainly because scientists are backtracking on previous accusations against it. In terms of the controversial health benefits, it’s now clear that most studies on coconut oil were done on partially hydrogenated versions. Those are definitely cholesterol raisers, but virgin coconut oil is a different story. First of all, the partially hydrogenated coconut oils have trans fat, a well-known evil in the food world. Virgin coconut butter and oil have plenty of saturated fat, but it’s actually a fairly healthy type of it—something called lauric acid. Lauric acid has been shown to increase levels of good cholesterols, and lower the bad. While it may not be as beneficial as olive oil (and you probably shouldn’t be eating it in large quantities), coconut butter offers a delicious alternative. Plus, vegans are in love. And why wouldn’t we be when coconut butter makes cakes go from crumbly and dry to soft and luscious? Coconut oil also has a natural sweetness that adds an unmistakable flavor to baked goods, along with stir-fries (try subbing it in Thai stir-fry) and sautés.
- Subbing for Mr. Milk
If you haven’t yet tried coconut milk already, head to the store stat for this dairy substitute. Just remember there are two types: one made to drink straight up (try So Delicious’ or Silk’s versions) and one to cook with, which usually comes in a can. The former is thinner and far more diluted with water, and often supplemented with vitamins and folic acid. Compared to dairy milk, coconut milk has fewer calories and sugar, comparable calcium and fat, but no cholesterol. Overall verdict? It’s healthier and tastier. Companies are also creating coconut-milk based products such as Coconut Bliss ice cream. If you want to make an amazing Thai curry, grab the can and check out our curry compilation for some tasty recipes.
- Beautiful Skin
Even though this is not directly food-related, coconut is also a beneficial ingredient in natural beauty products. For example, Alba Botanica has an entire line based on the soothing plant. Apply coconut oil directly on your skin and massage it in as a moisturizer, or mix equal parts castor oil with equal parts coconut oil to use as a facial cleanser. Want to make your own deodorant for the upcoming summer months? Vegan blog Bonzai Aphrodite has a recipe that will keep you smelling fresh.
Whether it’s for drinking, cooking, or making your skin glow, coconuts are tasty and easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Here at VegNews, we’ll take coconut in any form we can get!
From coconut water, coconut oil to coconut milk, here are health benefits of every part of the fruit
- By Poorva Chavan
Health and beauty benefits of coconut water, coconut oil, coconut flesh and coconut milk.
Coconut is a popularly used ingredient in many cuisines. The fruit and its oil are used in cooking. The husk is used to make coco peat used to grow plants, coir that is used in floor mats, brushes, mattresses, etc. All the parts of the fruits are equally useful and nothing is wasted, that’s why it is called kalpavriksha. Here are some uses and health benefits of all parts of the coconut.
- Coconut water
Health benefits of coconut water
Coconut water is the nature’s gift to mankind. The sweet nectar is a blessing, especially in summer, because it is rich in electrolytes. It also has other benefits like treating acidity and reducing the risk of kidney stones.
• Beauty benefits of coconut water
Worried about recurring acne breakouts and the scars they leave behind? Coconut water helps in soothing the skin and also fades the scars. It is a natural toner and gives the skin an even tone. Coconut water also acts like a natural moisturiser and applying it daily can make your skin soft and supple.
Coconut water can also be used to tame unmanageable, frizzy hair. Massage your hair with coconut water thrice a week for silky, smooth hair.
Coconut oil
• Health benefits of coconut oil
Even though it is known be rich in cholesterol and deemed unhealthy by many, coconut oil is widely used in cooking and is not as unhealthy as it is believed to be. According to Neha Chandna, nutritionist, coconut oil is excellent for people suffering from hypertension as it is low in sodium and high in potassium. She says since it is rich in fibre, it is good for diabetics too. However, another nutritionist Sweta Uchil-Purohit, says that saturated fats in coconut oil can clog the arteries and can lead to heart disease. Oil pulling with coconut oil can also prevent gum diseases. It is also believed that coconut oil can be used in different ways to lose weight and look young.
• Beauty benefits of coconut oil
Many people swear by oiling their hair with coconut oil. It nourishes hair, making it thick and strong and also give them lustre. Coconut oil also helps in fighting dandruff. It has anti microbial and antifungal properties, which helps in reducing the inflammation on scalp and reduce scalp irritation. Coconut oil can be used to make different hair packs that can help you control hair fall and fight dandruff. A few easy and quick hair packs include the amla-coconut oil hair mask and the coconut oil and hibiscus hair pack.
Coconut oil is also an excellent moisturiser and is best to fight itchy and dry skin during winter. It has antioxidants, which help in reducing appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and delay the process of ageing. A mixture of coconut oil and turmeric is also known to be effective in treating acne and reducing scarring. Coconut oil can also repair damaged skin and heal stretch marks by improving the elasticity of the skin.
• Coconut milk/cream
Coconut milk is extracted from the coconut flesh and is easily available. You can extract it at home too. Grind grated coconut with water to make a paste. Pass it through a sieve and collect the coconut milk. As with oil and coconut water, it has many health and beauty benefits.
• Health benefits of coconut milk
Coconut milk is known to boost your metabolism and can help you lose weight. It also has cardioprotective properties, which means it prevents heart diseases. It can regulate blood glucose level, since it is rich in fibre. The antiseptic properties of coconut milk help in treating sunburns and skin rashes.
• Beauty benefits of coconut milk
Since it is a natural moisturiser, it is great to keep your skin soft and nourished. It also promotes hair growth as it is rich in proteins and can also prevent hair fall. Coconut oil is also an excellent hair conditioner. It gives the hair a natural shine and improves texture.
• Coconut flesh
The soft and succulent coconut flesh is mostly eaten raw or used in cooking. It is used to make a base for different curries. It is also used to make different smoothies and drinks. Coconut flesh is rich and creamy in texture and has a sweet taste.
Citizens cool off with tender Coconut water
- By VADREVU SRINIVAS (DECCAN CHRONICLE)
Price ranges from Rs 15 to Rs 20 in Godavari districts and Rs 25 to Rs 40 in other parts.
Kakinada: As the mercury shoots up day by day, citizens are making a beeline for tender coconut water.
Cashing in on the huge demand, the sellers have hiked the price tender coconuts and charge Rs15 to Rs 20 according the size of the coconut in East and West Godavari districts, and Rs .25 to Rs 40 per coconut in other parts of the state.
The East and West Godavari districts are the main exporters of coconuts.
According to sources, nearly 300 lorries of coconut are transported to other districts in the two Telugu states Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and other parts of the country.
However, the farmers of Konaseema do not believe in selling tender coconut trees for sentimental reasons. They felt that it is not auspicious to harvesting tender coconuts and also the trees can be damaged if tender coconuts are harvested.
In recent years, the upland area farmers are growing coconut trees near borewells and are selling the tender coconuts along West Godavari district which is the highest exporter of these coconuts.
The traders say that the coconut cost has drastically fallen from Rs 11 to Rs 3.30 for past one month. “The tender coconuts are fetching Rs 6 to Rs 7 each. It is profitable than ripen coconuts,” said S. Venkateswar Rao, a coconut trader and also a farmer.
According to him, some of the coconut farmers in Razole and other mandals in Konaseema area also started to sell tender coconuts. Meanwhile, doctors also advised the people to drink coconut water in summer instead of cool drinks and other liquids.
“Tender coconut water can also be directly applied on the skin and hair problems. It also helps in steady blood circulation keeping the heart healthy. Drinking tender coconut water daily in summer helps maintain the energy levels.
It is better to drink it on an empty stomach and it prevents and cures kidney stone problems,” said eminent physician and former director of medical education in combined Andhra Pradesh Dr. M.B.R. Sarma. He said that tender coconut contains calcium which helps in strengthening bones and control dehydration problems and keeps the body cool.
The health benefits of coconut oil and when to use it
- (Take Care Staff)
Cooking trends come and go as new information is constantly developing on the healthiest types of foods to cook with. But the most current one was not expected, having once been called “the devil himself in liquid form” by The New York Times.
This week on “Take Care,” Megan Ware, registered dietician, nutritionist and writer for Medical News Today and Livestrong.com, explains the health benefits of the new cooking trend: coconut oil.
Although coconut oil is high in calories and saturated fat, it has recently been found that the fats it contains are good fats for your body, similar to those in many superfoods, such as avocados.
So what makes the fat in coconut oil better for you than the fat in processed food?
“It contains what’s called medium chain triglycerides. So the fatty acids that’s in that saturated fat are shorter, there are less carbons in them then say a meat product, so our body metabolizes those and uses them differently,” Ware said.
Ware also said that almost any fat that comes from a plant is going to have more health benefits than fat from fried or processed food.
Since coconut oil can act as a replacement for butter, margarine, or other oils when cooking and baking, some may wonder if using the oil will affect the taste of food by giving it a nutty flavor they may not want. Ware said in most cases the substitute’s taste won’t be very noticeable, but gave some tips on when not to use it.
“If you were trying to make a, let’s say salad dressing, I wouldn’t really want to take the olive oil out of the salad dressing and use the coconut oil instead because it really would change the flavor, and especially with salad dressing it would change the consistency because coconut oil tends to be thicker at room temperature,” Ware said.
Unlike most oils that are liquid at room temperature, Ware says coconut oil often does not reach its liquid form until heated to about 75 degrees.
But like other oils, there is a variety of coconut oils sold at supermarkets, and there are better choices to pick than others.
“The buzz words you really want to look for are, virgin and unrefined,” Ware said. “What that means is it was taken from the meat of the coconut, it was not heated to a high temperature, it wasn’t bleached, and it wasn’t refined.”
Unfortunately, the bleached and refined versions do tend to be a bit cheaper. But if you do buy the cheaper, more hydrogenated option, it can be just as bad as the unhealthy oils you were trying to avoid in the first place.
Although coconut oil is now proven to be beneficial to our health, Ware says we still shouldn’t go out of our way to add it to foods that wouldn’t normally have oil or butter in them, and to keep our diets balanced.
“I don’t think there’s any reason you need to start eating a tablespoon of coconut oil a day,” Ware said. “You don’t want to focus on any one superfood or one trend to get all your health benefits.”
After all, coconut oil does still contain a high amount of fat, even if it is good fat.
But now that you know what to look for, it may be time to start substituting the shortening in those homemade cookies this winter for some healthier coconut oil.
Here's Why You Should Eat Coconut Oil Every Day
- By Sean Kelly
Eating two tablespoons of coconut oil a day could have serious health benefits, a report notes.
One of the benefits of eating a spoonful a day is that it burns calories, effectively promoting weight loss.
"Coconut oil is more thermogenic, compared to other foods and fats," Q Political reports. "This means eating it tends to increase energy expenditure. In other words, eat more coconut oil to burn more calories."
Coconut oil contains a healthy fat that is essential in regulating blood sugar, slowing down the digestive process and breaking down carbs into glucose more slowly. This process is essentially a natural remedy for preventing diabetes.
When looking for coconut oil at the store, it's important to know exactly the kind to buy.
"The buzz words you really want to look for are virgin and unrefined," dietician Megan Ware said. "What that means is it was taken from the meat of the coconut, it was not heated to a high temperature, it wasn’t bleached and it wasn’t refined.”
Bleached and refined versions of the oil are typically cheaper than the virgin, unrefined options, but it's important to avoid refined coconut oil as it can be just as bad as other oils that are considered unhealthy.
The 4 Best Uses for Coconut Oil
- By Dr. Josh Axe (DNM, DC, CNS)
There are no shortage of superfoods on the market, as well as natural solutions for improved health. But I have made no secret of one of my all-time favorite natural remedies (along with apple cider vinegar) that I use every day: coconut oil.
So why do I love coconut oil so much? Well, primarily for it’s versatility — the many uses of coconut oil make it super easy to reap its health benefits in all areas of my life. Here are four of my favorite uses.
- For cooking
Coconut oil is great for cooking, and using it in this way is probably the simplest way to start seeing the health rewards of coconut oil. (And it’s a good replacement for vegetable oils, many of which may turn unhealthy when you cook with them.) Coconut oil is slow to oxidize — even when heated at high temperatures — which means it is less likely to go rancid and become unhealthy. Also, the fatty acids in coconut oil (lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid) contain antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antifungal properties that contribute to overall wellness.
- For skin care
Using coconut oil for skin care is one of the best and most cost-effective ways to reap its full benefits (plus, it’s a great alternative to those artificial chemically laden lotions and potions lining drugstore shelves). As an added bonus, the low molecular weight of coconut oil helps it to penetrate the skin easily, thus improving the health of your skin at the cellular level. The caprylic and lauric fatty acids in coconut oil reduce inflammation, while providing superior hydration. Some of my favorite ways to use coconut oil on the skin include as a face wash (it’ll kill pimple-causing bacteria while also moisturizing), to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis (it’s much more effective than mineral oil-based salves), and in an irritant-free deodorant.
- For weight loss
It’s the beginning of the year, which means that all across the country, millions of people are forgoing the happy hour cocktails and snacking on carrots and celery in an attempt to win the battle of the bulge. And while deprivation never works for sustained weight loss, there is an easier way. The medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut oil support weight loss by stimulating the burning of fat for energy. Additionally, some animal research suggests coconut oil may help control cravings and overeating. So now that you know that healthy fats (keyword: healthy) can actually help you lose fat, incorporate at least a tablespoon per day into your diet to maximize benefit. Try adding it to smoothies, your morning coffee or even eating it by the spoonful.
- For an overall wellness boost
To date, there are well over 1,500 studies that show the incredible healing properties of coconut oil. So even if you’re currently at your ideal weight and have great skin and oral health, there are still significant reasons you should consider consuming coconut oil on a daily basis.
Coconut oil may help prevent heart disease and high blood pressure due to its effects on cholesterol, and also seems to have digestive benefits (through its effects on gut bacteria) and inflammation-lowering effects (through its high levels of antioxidants). And these are just some of the amazing benefits.
The important thing to remember is that, in order to get maximum benefit from coconut oil, it’s important to choose an unrefined, virgin coconut oil. Refined coconut oil has been heated and processed, thereby destroying many of the oil’s powerful healing properties.
Is coconut oil really a miracle food? Surprising facts about this saturated fat
- By Madelyn Fernstrom
Wondering about all the hoopla surrounding coconut oil? Is it really a miracle "super fat," as many natural health bloggers claim? Coconut oil's champions say it works as a treatment against everything from Alzheimer's disease to thyroid issues. So, what's the truth? No miracle fats
Despite what some may believe, there is no one super-healthy source of fat. A healthy diet can incorporate a variety of all fats —in moderation. It's the amount and the type of fat that matters when you're looking for a smart choice.
While coconut oil is a plant fat, it's more than 90% saturated fat. (Consider that butter is only 64% saturated fat.)
The scientific literature consistently supports the idea that high consumption of saturated fats is highly correlated with an increased risk of heart disease, while fat intake from unsaturated sources — like olives, nuts, and sunflowers— boosts heart health. A lack of scientific evidence
Despite the fact that it's a saturated fat, coconut oil's advocates believe it can aid in treating a number of conditions including heart disease, arthritis, weight gain, and the aforementioned thyroid issues and Alzheimer's disease. They even claim it boosts immunity.
Yet much of this information is based on testimonials and self-report. The scientific data on the potential health benefits of coconut oil are only slowly developing with most nutrition experts and regulatory nutrition groups generally agreeing there isn't yet convincing evidence on what this tropical oil does in terms of heart health and overall disease management.
While some population studies have suggested that areas consuming high amounts of coconut oil — such as Sri Lanka —have lower incidence of heart disease, the studies don't take into account that other factors, like genetics, exercise, and overall diet quality that also play important roles.
- One reason for the hype
All fats have different fatty acid patterns and two fatty acids in coconut oil are myristic acid - which is heart-friendly —and lauric acid — which is not heart-friendly. Selected preliminary studies suggest that in a controlled laboratory setting coconut oil consumption increases both LDL (think "L" for lousy) as well as HDL (think "H" for healthy) cholesterol.
Some suggest the fact that it keeps cholesterol stable makes coconut oil a "better-for-you" saturated fat. However, studies have not yet determined how this ultimately might impact health over the long term.
Comparisons of refined coconut oil (processed) to the newer virgin (unprocessed) coconut oil add further confusion. There are simply no evidence-based answers yet to clarify the impact of one or the other on heart health.
- The bottom line
When it comes to choosing oils or any other fats, keep in mind:
- •Coconut oil has the same calories as all other fats, about 120 calories/tablespoon.
- •You don't want to swap heart-healthy unsaturated fats —like nuts, seeds, and other plant oils — for a saturated fat like coconut oil.
- •If you enjoy coconut oil, it's okay to use it sparingly. It's also okay to replace other sources of saturated fat with coconut oil, if you like its taste better.
- •You can eat all kinds of heart-healthy fats every day.
- •You should limit saturated fat to about 22 grams per day, or 10% of your daily calories.
If you love coconut oil's flavor, by all means, cook with it, but keep your intake modest until scientific studies document more of its health risks and benefits.
Don't want to consume coconut oil? Use it as a "topical fat" on your skin and hair. Coconut oil has been recommended as a body lotion, moisturizer, eye cream, massage oil, hair conditioner, lip balm, and more.
9 Ways To Use Coconut Oil For Incredible Hair & Skin All Winter Long
- By Amanda Richards
The other the other day, my roommate and I became suddenly and keenly aware of something we already knew deep down: There are an incredible amount of uses for coconut oil in this world. How did we arrive at this simultaneous realization? Well, I was in the kitchen smoothing coconut oil all over my face in an attempt to remove my makeup. At the same time, she was rubbing solid coconut oil all over several pieces of Kabocha squash in preparation for roasting. "You're buttering up the squash with coconut oil for the oven," I joked, "And I'm buttering up my face before a hot shower."
It might sound ridiculous — the moment the squash and I became one — but in truth, it tells a larger story of just how versatile and amazing coconut oil can be. It's great to cook with, sure, but it also takes my beauty game to the next level on a regular basis. There are a myriad of ways to take this standby kitchen product into the bathroom with you, and I've compiled a list of some of my absolute favorites. Whether you need help with your hair and skin or just want to smell like a tropical beach in the middle of winter, coconut oil has got you covered. Let the luxurious seasonal moisturizing begin.
1. Leave-In Conditioner
Bustle's own Kristin Collins Jackson created an incredible coconut oil leave-in conditioner recipe. All you need is:
- •1 cup of coconut oil
- •2 tablespoons of aloe vera leaf extract (or pure aloe juice)
- •2 tablespoons of sunflower seed oil
- •1 teaspoon of vegetable glycerin
- •12 drops of lavender essential oil
- •8 drops of pure vanilla extract
It works wonders on textured and curly hair. If your hair is thin, straight, or wavy, you can use this leave-in conditioner as an overnight mask. If your hair is particularly dry, you might be surprised by how much it has absorbed by morning.
2. Body Lotion
Sure, you can use coconut oil as body lotion by itself, but you can also take it up a notch by combining it with a few other skin-soothing products. This particular tutorial produces a recipe that's light and incredibly moisturizing. Plus, it smells delicious.
3. Makeup Remover
We all know that oil cleansing is incredibly effective at removing that first layer of heavy makeup, and coconut oil makes for a particularly useful oil cleanser. It melts as soon as you begin rubbing it into your skin, and can remove even the toughest matte liquid lipsticks and eyeliners without drying out your face.
4. Body Scrub
Some recipes for coconut oil-based body scrubs include coffee grounds as the main exfoliant, but I find that those have a tendency to get all over the shower (and the last thing I want to do after taking a shower is clean the shower). This recipe harnesses the power of epsom salts instead, and after using this, your skin will feel smooth AF.
5. Shaving Cream
I'm not often a fan of over-the-counter shaving creams, because I think they're completely unnecessary when you've probably got loads of other stuff that can do the job in your arsenal. Instead, I concoct this coconut oil shaving cream with ingredients I already have in my bathroom and kitchen. The resulting cream leaves my legs feeling super soft.
- •1/4 cup aloe vera
- •1/4 cup coconut oil
- •4-6 drops essential oil (I like lavender or peppermint for this)
Stir them all together and keep them in an airtight jar or container in the shower, easily accessible any time you want to get your gams looking and feeling smooth.
6. Night Cream
For those particularly harsh winter days, I like to sleep with a DIY mask made from coconut oil all over my face. It's incredibly hydrating. And like the shave cream above, all it requires are a few simple ingredients:
- •1 cup solid coconut oil
- •1/2 teaspoon tea tree oil
- •1/2 teaspoon Vitamin E oil (optional for an added boost of moisture)
For this cream, whip the coconut oil with a mixer first, until it's light, fluffy, and luxurious. Then stir in your tea tree and optional Vitamin E oils, leaving the final product in a sealed container by your bed. Warning: This will likely stain your pillow, so you might want to have an extra one on hand for the nights you indulge in this skin-quenching cream.
7. Lip Balm
This recipe from BuzzFeed might be slightly labor intensive, but the finished product is so, so worth it. I've found that the effects of this balm versus other store-bought ones are much more long-lasting. Plus, making it feels like a mini version of being a badass beauty scientist.
8. Overnight Pedicure
This particular use of coconut oil is as simple as can be: Simply slather it all over your feet, put on some cotton socks, and go to sleep. When you wake up, your feet will be softer than you ever thought possible. And for once, they'll smell good, too.
9. Eczema Treatment
During the winter, I get eczema in the strangest places: On the backs of my forearms, my cheekbones, and the bridge of my nose. Needless to say, the last thing I want in these highly visible areas is a stinky, medicinal eczema cream. That's why this article from Bustle's Faz Abdul Gaffa-Marsh was a lifesaver for me. Her recommendation of using coconut oil to relieve eczema has been both effective and keeps me smelling like a tropical island, all winter long.
And at the end of the day, smelling like a tropical island all winter long is just one of the many benefits of this wonder product.
Pictures of the Coconut Fruit and Tree
Cutting coconuts in Seychelles 1970's
Tall Coconuts in Jamaica
Split Coconut for Sun Drying
Coconuts left on the Bunch
Coconut Tree with Ladder
Coconut Meat, Direct Source of Virgin Coconut Oil
