Coconut, scientifically known as Cocus nucifera, was referred to as the 'Miracle Tree' by ancient Sri Lankans for a very good reason: every part of the tree is of immense benefit to man. Starting from the sprout, leaves and flowers to the trunk and the roots, ancient Sri Lankans knew how to reap gold from the Coconut tree. It is widely used in culinary, medicine and carpentry as well as in decorations. It is even used in traditional Hindu rituals as a symbol of prosperity.
Coconut trees thrive on sandy beaches across South East Asia and the Mediterranean; all the way across the beaches of Central Africa. It shows optimum growth in warm and humid countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, Brazil, India and Sri Lanka. Coconut trees require a lot of sunlight and therefore do not tolerate much overhead canopy. There resistance to salty conditions and strong roots make them excellent survivors on the shore, where the sandy soil and high salinity give little chance to most other plants.
Coconut
A botanist would refer to a Coconut fruit as a 'brute', as it is not a real 'nut'. It consists of a single seed covered in a hard shell composed of fibre. This is enveloped by two layers of husk. This fibrous outer shell of a coconut is known as the coir. When a coconut naturally falls, its coir will be dry and soft and can be processed to make Coco peat. Coco peat is available in various densities and granulations and is used for agricultural and horticultural purposes as it is a rich source of soil additive.
The white and meaty flesh inside the seed is the edible part of the fruit. The Coconut meat is fatty and rich in protein and minerals like iron, phosphorus and zinc. The meat in younger coconuts is very soft and is sometimes referred to as Coconut jelly. It is a great delicacy. The hollow inside the fruit is filled with Coconut water: a highly nutritious food source. Did you know that, during the World War II, Coconut water was used as an emergency transfusion liquid for patients who had lost a lot of blood? When Coconut meat is processed with warm water you produce a white liquid known as Coconut milk. It is used to make virgin Coconut oil and also in cooking.
Coconut trunks make excellent wood for carpentry because of its strength, straightness and resistance to wet and salty conditions. Other by products of Coconuts includes coconut flowers which are used as decorations throughout South Asia. Their nectar is used to make palm wine, 'toddy', as well as syrups and candy. Coconut leaves are used to roof houses, as fuel and to make various household items like brooms and baskets. The hard coconut shells are used to make numerous items ranging from spoons and cups to buttons and musical instruments. Coconut roots are known for its medicinal properties.
I am sure you will agree with the ancient Sri Lankans that Coconut is indeed a Miracle Tree. So next time you see one make sure to take a second look at it and appreciate it for all its worth.
Coconut - A Miracle Tree
Coconuts have numerous useful byproducts like leaves, Coco Peat and other coconut related products.