Coconut (Cocos nucifera) is one the world’s most nourishing, versatile and accessible food. The World Coconut Day was introduced by APCC (Asian and Pacific Coconut Community) in 2009. Every year, the World Coconut Day is celebrated on September 2nd.
The World Coconut Day is celebrated to bring awareness in the people about the significance of coconut and its potential in encouraging investments, alleviating poverty and promoting the development of the coconut industry.
Conditions required for the coconut to grow includes; i) equatorial climate with high humidity, ii) ideal mean annual temperature is 27° C with 5-7 degrees diurnal variation, iii) doesn’t withstand prolonged spells of extreme variations, and iv) A well-distributed rainfall of 1300-2300 mm per annum is preferred.
In terms of coconut production Indonesia is the world’s largest coconut producer, followed by the Philippines. India is the third-largest coconut producer in the world. In India, Kerala is the largest coconut producing state, followed by Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Coconuts have always proved to be a powerhouse as it helps in providing several ranges of products and the associated benefits. Coconuts are referred to as the wonder fruit because of the multiple benefits provided by them. Coconuts contain various health benefits due to the presence of antioxidants, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral elements. Nutritionally, coconuts contain protein, several important minerals, and small amounts of B vitamins, and are high in carbs providing mostly fat.
The coconut has many benefits for health.
Here are some of these benefits of coconut in daily life;
- Eating coconut boosts the immune system.
- Protect from heart diseases.
- Prevents obesity.
- Improves digestion.
- Protects from kidney disease and bladder infection.
- Prevents Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
- Boosts metabolism and increases energy.
- Coconut oil is useful in keeping hair and skin healthy and youthful-looking, prevents wrinkles, sagging skin, age spots, and provides sun- protection.
As one of the healthiest foods, the inside white, tender and fleshy portion of coconut is used in multiple cooking recipes and the oil, and milk that is obtained from the coconut is normally helpful for both the cooking as well as non-cooking purposes.
Coconut has many non-edibles uses as well. Leaves of the coconut tree are used to make household items such as brooms, baskets, door mats, and also decorative items. Its coir is a natural elastic fibre used to make ropes, strings, and stuffing for mattresses. In addition, coconut is a prime ingredient in various cosmetic products like coconut butter, coconut creme, and its shell and husk are used as fuel as they are a good source of charcoal.
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