Scientific name of Coconut palm: Cocos nucifera
Name of Coconut palm in different languages:
Hindi: Nariyal ka ped
Malayalam: Tengu തെങ്ങ്, Kalpavruksham
Sanskrit: Sandhya Raga, Narial
Plant Description:
The coconut tree (Cocos nucifera) is a tall palm, found throughout the tropic and sub-tropic area, it grows up to 30 m tall, its leaves are pinnate and up to 4 to 6 m long, and pinnae, 60cm to 90 cm long; old leaves falling down in maturity. Almost all part of the tree is useful for various needs in Kerala The name Kerala means ‘ The place of coconut’ (Kera means coconut and Ala – land or place).
Useful plant parts: Whole parts of the plant are useful, coconut, flowers, oil,
Main uses of this coconut palm:
- Coconuts are used as a part of the daily diets (coconut milk, scrambled coconut to prepare curries)
- Tender coconut water is a health drink (Potassium rich)
- Oil from dried fruits (Coconut oil)
- Charcoal is made from a hard shell.
- Coir from fibrous husk to make ropes, coir mattress, coir mats etc
- The husks and leaves are used to make furnishing and decorating.
- Coconut oil used in cosmetics
- Base of Ayurvedic Kerams
- Stems are used to make furniture, bridges, etc.
Medicinal uses:
Urinal disorders, intestinal worms, dehydration, bladder stones, dysentery, heart problems, and skin disorders.
In Ayurveda, coconut is valued for its various health benefits:
- Digestive Aid: Supports digestion and alleviates digestive disorders.
- Skin Nourishment: Moisturizes and promotes healthy skin.
- Hair Care: Strengthens hair, preventing hair loss and dandruff.
- Oral Health: Oil pulling with coconut oil promotes oral hygiene.
- Boosts Immunity: Rich in nutrients that enhance immunity.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, benefiting arthritis and joint pain.
- Heart Health: Supports cardiovascular health, regulating cholesterol levels.
- Brain Health: Nourishes the brain and supports cognitive function.
- Weight Management: Helps in weight loss and metabolism regulation.
- Stress Relief: Contains properties that promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized recommendations and dosages.
Chemical content: Kaprilic Acid, glycerides, meristic acid, stearic acids
How to prepare medicines with Coconut:
Used as an ingredient in the Ayurveda medicines like:
