Coconut

The coconut palm is a member of the family Arecaceae (palm family). It is large, growing up to 30m in height, with pinnate leaves. The term coconut refers to the fruit of the palm. The palm is grown throughout the tropical world, for its decorative as well as for its culinary and non-culinary uses.

The coconut is a dry nut known as a fibrous drupe. The husk is composed of fibers called coir and there is an inner stone. The endocarp is the hardest part. It has three germination pores, visible on the outside surface once the husk is removed. Although coconut meat contains less fat than other dry nuts such as peanuts and almonds, it is noted for its high amount of saturated fat. The endosperm surrounds a hollow interior space, filled with air and often a liquid referred to a s coconut water, not to be confused with coconut milk. Coconut water from the unripe coconut, however, can be drunk fresh.

The white, fleshy part of the seed is edible and used fresh or dried in cooking. The cavity is filled with coconut water which contains sugar, fiber, proteins antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Coconut water provides as isotonic electrolyte balance, and is a highly nutritious food source. It is used as a refreshing drink throughout the humid tropics and in isotonic sports drinks. The roots are used as a mouth wash, and a medicine for dysentery. A frayed out piece of root can also be used as a tooth brush.