The Coconut Tree and its Uses

The coconut tree and its uses are a topic that many people are seeking answers to. In this article, I’m going to give a summary of the coconut tree and its many uses.

Information on the Coconut tree

The coconut tree is a palm-family tree with a 2 feet diameter trunk, popularly cultivated in Southeast Asian countries. The coconut tree thrives well in moist, frost-free climates.

This tree, branded as “The Tree of Life” does not have branches but carries a crown of feathery leaves above the ground. The coconut tree may bear close to 200 fruits annually, but the average fruit production is around 40. Since prehistoric times, it has been used for both home and commercial purposes.

Its Uses

As food

The coconut fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. It is considered a functional food as it is rich in vitamins, fiber, minerals, and powerful antioxidants.

The nutrition contained by the coconut fruit can treat a variety of health problems, including, ulcers, fever, flu, asthma, painful menstruation and many other disorders.

Coconut water is usually confused with coconut milk. Coconut water is the mildly sweet water found inside the fruit. This wonderful natural water has numerous health benefits such as re-hydration and kidney cleansing.

For commercial use

Coconut leaves are traditionally used to make baskets and for roofing purposes. The firm midribs can be used to make skewer and arrows. Bundled coconut leaves can serve as brooms and brushes.

As a medicine

Coconut oil extracted from mature coconut is used to make virgin coconut oil that prevents and treats minor ailments.

Apart from being an excellent hair conditioner, coconut oil is widely used in many Asian cuisines.

Coconut meat is a good source of protein and an effective natural laxative.

Coconut inflorescence is used to produce coconut juice that is a refreshing and nutritious drink recommended for people with kidney problems.

For other purposes

1. Coconut husks and shells are used as fuel and charcoal. Besides, they are good at buffing floors. The people of Indonesia traditionally used shells as traditional water dippers. Nowadays, shells are used to make buttons.

2. The trunk of the coconut tree is used to build small bridges as they are straight, strong, and salt resistance. The people of Hawaii use them to make drums, containers, and even small canoes.

3. The coconut flowers are used for medicinal purposes. They are an ingredient in various traditional remedies, especially medicines for new mothers.

4. The coconut flesh can be turned into coconut flour. The flour is often used as a gluten-free substitute.

5. Coir is the fiber from the husks popularly used to make ropes, mats, brushes, caulking boats.

6. Coconut leaf stems, shells, leaves. Husks and flower stems are used to produce fire in traditional kitchens.

Conclusion

This is just a summary of the coconut tree and its uses. There are many other uses of this wonderful tree.