The coconut, traditionally known as kalpavriksha in Sanskrit, meaning “the tree that supplies all that is needed to live,” has long been recognized in ancient India as a powerful immunity booster, antibiotic, antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial therapy. Its numerous health benefits have led to a surge in popularity in recent times.
So, what makes coconut so amazing?
One of the reasons coconut is so extraordinary is due to the fact that it is filled with strong antioxidant properties, which serve multiple health-boosting functions:
- It helps lower cholesterol
- It improves digestion
- It prevents wrinkles
- It stabilizes glucose levels
- It defends against viruses
- It regenerates cells
- It balances hormones
- It increases thyroid production
- It reduces weight
- It increases metabolism
- It fights infections
- It staves off memory loss
- It kills bacteria
Different Forms of Coconut
These benefits can be enjoyed in various forms, including coconut flesh, coconut water, coconut oil, and coconut cream.
Coconut water is the liquid found inside green, unripe coconuts and is completely pure and sterile. It serves as an excellent substitute for sports drinks because it is high in electrolytes that are lost in sweat. In fact, coconuts contain a higher concentration of electrolytes than any other natural substance.
Coconut oil, which beats even extra virgin olive oil when it comes to delivering essential nutrients to the body, does not manifest as polymerized oils or dangerous trans fatty acids in our bodies. Other oils can increase cholesterol levels, clog arteries, and even make skin lose elasticity and firmness. On the other hand, coconut oil delivers a healthy dose of antioxidants, rejuvenating cells and enhancing overall health.
Furthermore, when applied topically, coconut oil helps to draw out toxins and impurities from the skin, while naturally softening and hydrating it, giving it a more youthful appearance. A lesser-known benefit of coconut oil is its ability to protect your teeth against cavities and disease. To enjoy these benefits, simply apply a small amount of coconut oil to your teeth and gums daily.
Replacing unsaturated fats and oils with coconut oil can also help you lose excess weight, as it promotes thyroid function and increases metabolism. Oils like canola and corn contain unsaturated fats that can affect your metabolism, making your body incapable of properly metabolizing calories and fats, which then end up stored as extra weight.
Coconut cream is superior to other skin creams because it restores elasticity and radiance in a healthier way. Conventional skin creams can deplete the skin when they hydrate with fats and oils, breaking down the skin’s elasticity over time. Coconut cream, in contrast, nourishes the skin and maintains its natural moisture and elasticity.
How to Choose the Right Coconut
When shopping for coconut, look for young, wild coconuts that offer maximum health benefits to your immune system, metabolism, skin, and overall health and well-being. These are often tinted green and irregularly shaped. More mature and hairy varieties are less potent.
If you are traveling to a tropical paradise, be sure to take advantage of the many benefits of coconuts. Local health food stores or Asian grocers carry exported coconuts from all over the world, making it easy for you to enjoy the myriad health benefits of the coconut, regardless of your location.
In Conclusion
It is no wonder that the coconut has been called “the tree that supplies all that is needed to live.” Its incredible healing powers and numerous uses make it an essential addition to any healthy lifestyle. As an immunity booster, antibiotic, antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial agent, the coconut’s potential is truly impressive.
Whether you are looking to ward off disease, capture a more youthful look, or simply improve your overall health, including coconut flesh, water, oil, or cream in your diet and skincare routine could prove to be a game-changer. Begin incorporating coconut into your life today and discover the impressive benefits for yourself.
