Coconut is commonly known as “Nariyal” and is considered as a good luck charm for new beginnings. It is full of nutrients like calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, vitamin C, etc.
Coconut is widely used for its oil as it has numerous skin and hair benefits. Coconut oil manages skin problems like dryness, itchiness, scars etc. as it is rich in vitamin E and has antimicrobial, antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory properties. It also promotes hair growth and prevents dandruff due to its antifungal property.
According to Ayurveda, applying Coconut oil on to the skin helps in wound healing and manages scars, blemishes, eczema, psoriasis etc. due to its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing) properties. Massaging your scalp with Coconut oil helps to promote hair growth and prevents dandruff due to its Keshya (promotes hair growth) and Snigdha (oily) properties.
Drinking Coconut water helps manage weight by enhancing body's metabolism. It maintains electrolyte balance in the body and prevents dehydration. Using virgin Coconut oil for cooking might also help manage cholesterol levels by maintaining a balance between good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol levels.
In Ayurveda, the use of Coconut is divided according to its maturity:
1. Tender Coconut: It is a Pitta dosha-pacifier due to its Sita (cold) effect on the body. It has almost 90% water.
2. Half-mature Coconut: In this stage, Coconut contains less water than the tender ones. It is lighter on the metabolic system and has a soft pulp.
3. Fully matured Coconut: When a Coconut becomes mature, it becomes heavy to digest, and can also aggravate Pitta or Vata Dosha. This type of Coconut has firm ‘meat’ or pulp.
If fully matured Coconut is consumed in large quantities, a person might experience hyperacidity[2][5].

What are the synonyms of Coconut?

Cocos nucifera, Narikela, Narikela, Khopra, Narkel, Coconut Palm, Naliar, Nariyel, Shriphal, Koprun, Nariyal, Gola, Khobbari, Tengnamara, Temgu, Thengu, Thenginamara, Nalikeram, Ten, Thengu, Keram, Naral, Narela, Garigola, Tenkai, Kopparai, Narikelamu, Tenkay, Kobbari, Narjil, Narial[1]

What is the source of Coconut?

Plant Based

Benefits of Coconut

Modern Science View

Coconut is beneficial in managing high cholesterol as it is rich in phenols. Virgin Coconut oil and Coconut water also has potent antioxidant activity. This reduces oxidative cell damage and lowers the risk of high cholesterol[3][6-8].

Ayurvedic View

High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels. Using Coconut or Coconut oil in your daily diet helps to improve Agni (digestive fire) and reduce Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It also helps to remove blockage from the blood vessels by eliminating toxins.
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Coconut oil or as per your requirement.
2. Use it in your routine cooking.

Modern Science View

Coconut may be useful in the removal of kidney stones due to the presence of a bioactive product[5][7].

Ayurvedic View

Coconut or Coconut oil helps to control the formation of kidney stones. An improper diet and lifestyle impairs the digestive fire. This leads to the formation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the body. Crystallization of these toxins leads to the formation of kidney stones. Coconut or Coconut oil helps to improve Agni (digestive fire) and reduce Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Coconut oil or as per your requirement.
2. Use it in your routine cooking.

Modern Science View

Coconut kernel and Coconut water may be useful in managing diabetes. They tend to reduce pancreatic damage, improve the secretion of insulin as well as the utilization of blood glucose[5][6].

Ayurvedic View

Diabetes also known as Madhumeha is due to an aggravation of Vata and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells and impairs the function of insulin. Taking Coconut water helps to correct impaired digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) nature. This reduces Ama and improves the function of insulin. This thus helps control high blood sugar level.
Tips:
1. Drink 1/2 cup of Coconut water or as per your requirement.
2. Take it preferably in the morning on an empty stomach.

Modern Science View

Coconut may be useful in managing Obesity by increasing the metabolic rate. Coconut oil reduces the amount of tissue cholesterol and phospholipid thus reducing fat build up[9][10].

Ayurvedic View

An increase in weight is due to unhealthy food habits and lifestyle which leads to a weak digestive fire. This increases accumulation of Ama causing an imbalance in meda dhatu. This results in obesity. Taking Coconut or Coconut oil in your daily diet helps to improve Agni (digestive fire) and reduce Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Coconut oil or as per your requirement.
2. Use it in your routine cooking.

How effective is Coconut?

Insufficient evidence

Diabetes, High cholesterol, Kidney stone, Obesity

FAQs about Coconut benefits

Is Coconut good for weight loss?

Is Coconut good for constipation?

Precautions when using Coconut

Patients with heart disease

Modern Science View

Coconut may increase the cholesterol level. So it is generally advised to consult your doctor while taking Coconut[3].

Side Effects

Important

Modern Science View

Skin Rashes
Difficulty breathing[3].

FAQs about Coconut precautions

Can Coconut cause hyperacidity?

Can Coconut water cause gas?

Can Coconut water reduces immunity?

Can Coconut water increases the weight?

Recommended Dosage of Coconut

Coconut Oil - 2-3 teaspoons or as per your requirement.
Coconut Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day.

How to use Coconut

1. Raw Coconut Fruits
a. Take 4-5 pieces of Coconut fruit.
b. Chew them properly in the morning and evening.

2. Coconut water
a. Drink ½ cup of Coconut water.
b. Take it preferably in the morning empty stomach.

3. Coconut Milk Powder
a. Take ½ -1 teaspoon Coconut milk powder.
b. Mix with ½ teaspoon Mishri.
c. Have it before lunch and dinner.

4. Coconut Oil
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Coconut oil.
b. Use it in your routine cooking.

5. Coconut Capsule
a. Take 1-2 capsule of Coconut.
b. Swallow them twice a day preferably after meals.

Benefits of Coconut

FAQs about Coconut benefits

Is Coconut water cooling for the body?

Can Coconut oil get rid of wrinkles?

Can Coconut oil dry out my skin?

Is Coconut good for yeast infection?

Is Coconut good for scars?

Is Coconut good for your teeth?

1. Hair Loss
Coconut oil is widely used for maintaining healthy hair and preventing hair fall. This is because hair fall is mainly due to an aggravated Vata dosha in the body. Coconut oil acts on hair fall by balancing Vata dosha. It also promotes new hair growth because of its Keshya (promotes hair growth) property.
Tips:
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Coconut oil or as per your requirement.
b. Massage gently on the scalp at night.
c. Wash your in the morning with a herbal shampoo.
d. Repeat it once or twice a week to control hair loss.

2. Dandruff
According to Ayurveda, dandruff is a condition marked by flakes of dry skin on the scalp which may be attributed to an aggravated Vata and Pitta dosha. Applying Coconut oil helps to balance Vata-Pitta and remove dead cells or dryness due to its Snigdha (oily) property. This helps control dandruff.
Tips:
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Coconut oil or as per your requirement.
b. Mix 1 pinch of Camphor powder, wait till it dissolves.
c. Massage gently on the scalp at night.
d. Wash your hair in the morning with a herbal shampoo.
e. Repeat it once or twice a week to control dandruff.

3.Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common, chronic, autoimmune disease that causes dry, red, scaly patches and flakes on the skin. Coconut oil is useful in Psoriasis as it removes dryness and helps in quick healing of scaly patches. This is due to its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan(healing) properties.
Tips:
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Coconut oil or as per your requirement.
b. Apply gently on the affected area and leave it overnight.
c. Repeat this every night to get rid of the symptoms of psoriasis.

4. Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition that makes the skin rough, blistered, inflamed and itchy. Applying Coconut oil on the affected area helps to control excessive itching and promotes the healing process. This is due to its Ropan (healing) property.
Tips:
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Coconut oil or as per your requirement.
b. Apply gently on the affected area and leave it overnight.
c. Repeat this every night to get rid of the symptoms of eczema.

5. Ulcers and Boils
Coconut oil helps to heal ulcer and boils due to its Ropan (healing) property.
Tips:
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Coconut oil or as per your requirement.
b. Apply gently on the affected area and leave it overnight.
c. Repeat this every night for quick healing of ulcers and boils.

6. Glowing Skin
Coconut oil helps to keep skin glowing when applied on the skin on a daily basis. This is because Coconut oil has Snigdha (oily) property. It removes excessive dryness and control fine lines and wrinkles. Coconut oil also removes dead skin and helps in skin regeneration due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) nature.
Tips:
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Coconut oil.
b. Massage gently on the affected area of the skin before going to bed.
c. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week for smooth and glowing skin.

Precautions when using Coconut

FAQs about Coconut precautions

Can Coconut or Coconut oil cause skin allergy ?

Can Coconut oil clog your pores?

Recommended Dosage of Coconut

Coconut Oil - 2-3 teaspoons of Coconut oil.

How to use Coconut

1. Coconut Oil
a. Take 2-3 teaspoon of Coconut oil.
b. Massage gently on the affected area of the skin and hair.
c. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of scars and marks and for proper nourishment to hair.

2. Coconut Water
a. Take 2-3 teaspoon of Coconut water.
b. Dip the cotton into the Coconut water.
c. Dap the cotton on the face and wipe your face properly with
Coconut water.
d. Use this remedy to 2-3 times a week to get rid of skin aging and infections.

Frequently asked questions

Modern Science View

The white part in the Coconut is called as the “Coconut meat” and in hindi it is called as “Gari”. Also the water present inside this layer is called as Coconut water contains various benefits.

Modern Science View

There are two varieties of Coconut: Brown and Green. The brown ones are mature and are found lying on the forest floor. Green Coconuts are used for eating as it has a gelatinous inner part and edible Coconut water.

Modern Science View

Yes, the brown skin is actually connected to the meat and whenever a person tries to extract out the Coconut meat layer the brown layer comes with it automatically. The brown layer is equally edible as the above white meat of Coconut.

Modern Science View

Since not enough evidence is available, Coconut oil cannot be used as a perfect vaginal lubricant. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It might disrupt the pH of the vagina and may cause irritation.

Modern Science View

The fresh Coconut meat can be stored in refrigerator upto 4 days when tightly packed. Also for prolonged storage, grate fresh Coconut meat and dip it into the Coconut water, pack tightly and keep in the refrigerator. Doing this can increase its shelf life upto 4-6 months.

Modern Science View

Coconut milk can be consumed within 10 days of opening to ensure its maximum freshness. Coconut milk starts deteriorating when left open. You can sense the spoilage by smell or its taste.

Modern Science View

There are two types of Coconut oil. Refined and Virgin. Refined Coconut oil is devoid of flavor and aroma of Coconut. While virgin has all the properties that Coconut oil should possess.

Modern Science View

Coconut oil can be used in cooking due to its unique lauric acid content, a saturated fat that is beneficial for health.

Modern Science View

Coconut water is a thin liquid that is high in potassium and is often used as a source of fluid to quench hydration. While the milk is a delicious, sweet cream often used in beverages, smoothies and cooking but it should be taken in limited quantity if you have high cholesterol or any heart problems.

Modern Science View

Yes, Coconut oil is edible and is used for cooking in various parts of the world. Coconut oil does not form free radicals even after heating to intense temperature, thus making it a safe oil for cooking[23].

Modern Science View

Virgin Coconut oil is the purest(unrefined) form of Coconut oil. This oil is obtained from the fresh and mature kernel (meat) of the coconut by mechanical or natural means, with or without the use of heat, without undergoing chemical refining, bleaching or deodorizing processes, which does not lead to the alteration of the nature of the oil[24].

Modern Science View

Coconut oil is majorly made up of saturated fats which are medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and most important being lauric acid. This lauric acid gives coconut oil its white cream colour and stable (solid) state. It also contains small amount Vitamin E and Vitamin K that help provides various benefits to the skin[26].

Modern Science View

Dry coconut also known as fully mature coconut can be eaten mainly as a dry fruit. It is added to various food items like chutneys, sweets etc. It is also used for the extraction of oils. After extraction, the leftovers are used as fodder for animals due to their high protein content.

Ayurvedic View

Matured Coconut (dry Coconut) is heavy to digest and if large quantity is consumed daily, a person can suffer from hyperacidity because of aggravated Pitta dosha.

Modern Science View

No, Drinking Coconut water in fact helps you get rid of gastric problems and aids better digestion and helps in absorption of major nutrients such as minerals, vitamins and amino acids[5].

Modern Science View

No, in fact it is also considered as a potent source which can boost energy and immunity to fight various diseases and epidemic infections. It also helps to increase athletic and physical capacity[5].

Modern Science View

Although Coconut water contains medium saturated chain fatty acids but these fatty acids have the capacity to burn themselves into the form of energy and prevents the formation of fats that increase the weight. It also works to enhance the body’s metabolism and treats pancreatitis[5].

Modern Science View

Coconut water contains certain fatty acids that metabolizes to produce energy. It also increases body metabolism and reduces the build up of fats and cholesterol[5][9].

Modern Science View

Yes, Coconut may be useful in managing constipation due to its high fibre content. Fibre aids in easy removal of waste from the body by adding bulk to the stool[10][11].

Ayurvedic View

Allergies to Coconut oil is considered rare when applied on the body. It can be avoided if you have hypersensitive or highly oil skin.

Modern Science View

Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Coconut oil can act as a comedogenic agent and might clog the pores. So if you have a acne prone skin, it is advisable to consult your doctor before using Coconut oil directly on the skin.

Ayurvedic View

Yes, Coconut water helps to keep the body cool. This is because it has Sita (cold) potency which gives a cooling effect on the body.

Modern Science View

Coconut water contains cytokinin that has anti-ageing property which may be useful in preventing wrinkles[5][14].

Modern Science View

Coconut oil is rich in vitamin E and has antimicrobial activity due to which it can be used on oily skin without actually drying it[16].

Modern Science View

Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Coconut oil may be useful in managing yeast infection[5].

Modern Science View

Coconut oil has strong anti-inflammatory property. It contains fatty acids that protects the skin from acne and other infections. It may also protect the skin against acne scars and blemishes[16].

Modern Science View

Coconut possesses antibacterial activity. Coconut husk is usually used to brush teeth in rural India. It may protect against common oral pathogens[6][15].

Modern Science View

Coconut oil may be useful in managing baldness. When applied on the scalp, it prevents hair loss as well as promotes the growth of new hair[3][6][12].

Modern Science View

Coconut oil has antifungal property and also acts as a moisturizer. Due to these properties, it may be useful in managing and preventing dry scalp and dandruff[3][5][12].

Modern Science View

Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Coconut may reduce the symptoms of Psoriasis[3][5].

Modern Science View

Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Coconut kernel oil may be useful in managing eczema and itching associated with it[3][5][13].

Modern Science View

Although enough scientific evidence is not available, topical application of Coconut oil or Coconut shell cream may be useful in managing dermatitis[3][5][6].

Modern Science View

Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Coconut may be useful in managing ulcers and boils[3][13].

Modern Science View

Coconut water contains cytokinin that has anti-ageing property. Washing your face with Coconut water and/or applying Coconut milk or oil helps in making the skin soft and glowing. Coconut also protects the skin against UV-B radiation damage[3][5][13][14].

Modern Science View

The oil obtained from burning fresh Coconut shell may be useful in managing ringworm infection. This is due to its antifungal property[3][5][13].

References

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
Venugopal A, Rinu KA, Joseph D.Cocos Nucifera: It’s Pharmacological Activities.World J Pharm Pharm Sci.2017;5(8): 195-200.
WebMD.Coconut: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
Balkrishnan A.Nariyal.Ayurved Jadi Buti Rehsya. Danik Bhaskar.2017.
Aggarwal B, Lamba HS, SHarma P et al.Various pharmacological aspects of Cocos nucifera-a review.American Journal of Pharmacological Sciences.2017;5(2):25-30.
Lima EBC, Sousa CNS, Meneses LN et al.Cocos nucifera (L.) (Arecaceae):a phytochemical and pharmacological review.Braz J Med Biol Res.2015;8(11):953-964.
DebMandal M, Mandal S.Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.: Arecaceae):in health promotion and disease prevention.Asian Pac J Trop Med.2011:241-247.
Nevin KG, Rajamohan T.Beneficial effects of virgin Coconut oil on lipid parameters and in vitro LDL oxidation.Clin Biochem.2004;37(9):830-835.
Awad AB.Effect of dietary lipids on composition and glucose utilization by rat adipose tissue.J Nutr.1981;111(1):34-39.
Onyechi O, Elijah PJ, Nkechi EJ.Phytochemical analysis of Cocos nucifera L.Arch Pharm Sci & Res.2009;1(1):87-96.
Okafor GI, Ugwu FC.Production and evaluation of cold extruded and baked ready-to-eat snacks from blends of breadfruit (Treculia africana), cashewnut (Anacardium occidentale) and Coconut (Cocos nucifera).Food Science and Quality Management.2014;23:65-77.
Raquibul Hasan SM, Mokarram Hossain M, Akter R et al.DPPH free radical scavenging activity of some Bangladeshi medicinal plants.J Med Plants Res.2009;3(11):875-879.
Krishnamurthy KH.Coconut or Naarikela (Cocos nucifera, Linn.).Journal of New Approaches to Medicine and Health.2010;17(4).
Yong JWH, Ge L, Ng YF et al.The chemical composition and biological properties of Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) water.Molecules.2009;14:5144-5164.
Alviano WS, Alviano DS, Diniz CG et al.In vitro antioxidant potential of medicinal plant extracts and their activities against oral bacteria based on Brazilian folk medicine.Arch Oral Biol.2008;53(6):545-552.
Bhagya D, Soumya G. Effects Of Coconut Neera (Cocos nucifera L.) On Blood Pressure Among Hypertensive Adult Women. International Journal of Applied and Pure Science and Agriculture. 2016;2(9):1-7.
Victor E.Cocos nucifera (COCONUT) fruit: A review of its medical properties.Advances in Agriculture, Sciences and Engineering Research:2013;3 (3) :718 - 723.
Kumar KA, Viswanathan K.Study of UV Transmission through a Few Edible Oils and Chicken Oil.Journal of Spectroscopy. 2013.http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2013/540417
Sethi S, Tyagi SK, Anurag RK. Plant-based milk alternatives an emerging segment of functional beverages: a review. J Food Sci Technol. 2016;53(9):3408-3423.
Patil U, Benjakul S. Coconut Milk and Coconut Oil: Their Manufacture Associated with Protein Functionality. Journal of Food Science.2018; 83(1):1-8.
Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. Int J Mol Sci.2017;19(1):70.
Ahmad Z, Sarmidi M.R, Hasham R. Evaluation of wound closure activity of cocos nucifera oil on scratched monolayer of human dermal fibroblasts, Chemical Engineering Transactions.2017;56(1):1657-1662.
Shanker P, Ahuja S, Tracchio A.Coconut oil: A review.Agro Food Industry Hi Tech.2014;24(5):62-64.
Dumancas GG, Kasi Viswanath LC, de Leon AR, et al.Health benefits of virgin coconut oil.Vegetable Oil: Properties, Uses, and Benefits. Nova Science Publishers.2016.
Chew YL. The beneficial properties of virgin coconut oil in management of atopic dermatitis.Phcog Rev 2019;13:24-27.
Lockyer S, Stanner S. Coconut oil – a nutty idea? British Nutrition Foundation Nutrition Bulletin.2016;41:42–54.
Mirzaei F, Khazaei M., Komaki A et al. Multitarget Effects of Coconut Oil (virgin type) on aβ-induced Alzheimer’s Disease animal model. Neuroscience.2018; 6(2).
Doty L. Coconut Oil for Alzheimer’s disease? Clinical Practice 2012, 1(2): 12-17.
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Coconut

What are the synonyms of Coconut?

What is the source of Coconut?

Benefits of Coconut

What are the benefits of Coconut for High cholesterol?

What are the benefits of Coconut for Kidney stone?

What are the benefits of Coconut for Diabetes?

What are the benefits of Coconut for Obesity?

How effective is Coconut?

FAQs about Coconut benefits

Precautions when using Coconut

FAQs about Coconut precautions

Recommended Dosage of Coconut

How to use Coconut

Benefits of Coconut

FAQs about Coconut benefits

Precautions when using Coconut

FAQs about Coconut precautions

Recommended Dosage of Coconut

How to use Coconut

Frequently asked questions

Q. What do you call the white matter in Coconut?

Q. How many types of Coconuts are there in the world?

Q. Is the brown skin on Coconut meat edible?

Q. Can you use Coconut oil as a Vaginal lubricant?

Q. How do you store fresh Coconut meat?

Q. How do you know when Coconut milk has gone bad?

Q. How many types of Coconut oils are there?

Q. Can Coconut oil be used for cooking?

Q. What is the difference between Coconut milk and Coconut water?

Q. Is Coconut oil edible?

Q. What is Virgin Coconut oil?

Q. What nutrients are present in Coconut oil?

Q. Can we eat dry Coconut?

Q. Can Coconut cause hyperacidity?

Q. Can Coconut water cause gas?

Q. Can Coconut water reduces immunity?

Q. Can Coconut water increases the weight?

Q. Is Coconut good for weight loss?

Q. Is Coconut good for constipation?

Q. Can Coconut or Coconut oil cause skin allergy ?

Q. Can Coconut oil clog your pores?

Q. Is Coconut water cooling for the body?

Q. Can Coconut oil get rid of wrinkles?

Q. Can Coconut oil dry out my skin?

Q. Is Coconut good for yeast infection?

Q. Is Coconut good for scars?

Q. Is Coconut good for your teeth?

Q. Is Coconut good for hair loss?

Q. Is Coconut good for dandruff?

Q. Is Coconut good for Psoriasis?

Q. Is Coconut good for eczema?

Q. Is Coconut good for dermatitis?

Q. Is Coconut good for Ulcers and Boils?

Q. Is Coconut good for glowing skin?

Q. Is Coconut good for ringworm?

References