Coconut - Nature Cures®

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Also known as Cocos nucifera.

The Pacific Islanders believe that it is the cure for all illness, which is why the palm tree (from which coconuts are grown) is known as “The Tree of Life”. Coconut oil is thought to possess healing properties above and beyond that of any other dietary oils.

The main benefits of coconut oil are due to its powerful antiviral, anti fungal, antibacterial and anti-parasitic properties.

Anti-microbial components in coconut

Eating coconuts are excellent for one’s immunity. If it is consumed in any of its various forms, raw coconut, pure cold pressed virgin oil, milk, juice, butter, desiccated or dried, it can help treat some of mankind’s worst and most resilient of illnesses.

Common infections coconut can help to treat

Bronchitis
Giardia
Gonorrhoea
Herpes
Lice
Influenza
Tapeworms
Throat infections
Urinary tract infections

Coconut can also treat numerous other ailments caused by microbes. Many bacterial infections have become resistant to antibiotics, so the obvious choice is coconut as a natural cure.

It can also help to lower triglycerides, improve memory and resolve depression.

It has recently been discovered that coconut oil may help to reverse the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Two tablespoons of coconut oil with a yoghurt with live cultures especially kefir from unpasteurised milk and maqui powder or a similar dark berry fruit should be taken daily.

Whether eating the coconut flesh, drinking the juice, or consuming it as oil, coconuts are a delicious and nutritious source of fibre, vitamins, minerals and amino acids. It is a very rich source of calcium, potassium and magnesium, as well as electrolytes.

Eating coconuts supports the development of strong, healthy bones and teeth. It does this by improving the body’s ability to absorb calcium and magnesium. It also prevents osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones become thin and fragile and lose their density.

This makes coconuts a good, healthy alternative for those who are lactose intolerant, but still want to have strong bones and teeth. Those who prefer a vegan diet can benefit from it as a good source of protein and fatty acids.

People were concerned in the past that it increased cholesterol and contributed to heart disease, but this is a myth. It actually lowers cholesterol and reduces the chances of heart disease. This is because its fat content is simply changed into energy, lessening the likelihood of fat build-up in the arteries and heart.

Coconut oil contains healthy medium chain fatty acids which are changed into energy and ketones. Ketones feed the brain, prevent degeneration of brain tissue and help to restore and renew nerves after damage.

Health benefits of coconut

Appetite suppressant.
Helps with fat loss, BMI reduction and waist reduction.
Can reduce the number of seizures in drug resistant epilepsy in children.
A powerful antioxidant.
Improves brain function in Alzheimer’s sufferers.
Helps improve types 1 and 2 diabetes.
Balances cholesterol and triglyceride levels, lowering the risk of heart disease
An instant form of energy.
A mouthwash for improved dental health and fresh breath.

NOTE: Coconut oil has a very high temperature threshold so is ideal to use for frying.

Coconut water

Coconut water is known to have the same electrolyte levels as human plasma and has even been used for plasma transfusions. Its antioxidant properties also slow down the aging process by protecting the body from harmful free radicals.

Who should avoid coconut water?

People with diabetes.
People with kidney disorders
People taking diuretics, that promote the excretion of sodium and water while retaining potassium in the body
People allergic to nuts.
People with low blood pressure (hypotension).
Patients preparing for surgery.

External uses of coconut

Slows hair loss and promotes hair growth when rubbed into the scalp.
Hair conditioner.
Used with apple cider vinegar and/or parsley for a treatment for head lice.
Skin moisturiser.
Can help prevent stretch marks.
A natural deodorant.
A chemical free make up remover.
Lightens age spots

Coconut oil is also known to treat skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis and can heal anal fissures.

Some health practitioners in Indonesia have long used coconut oil to effectively treat bed sores and other skin lesions.

NOTE: It’s best to apply it to the area throughout the day and before going to bed. It makes a good alternative to shop bough skin care products as it is toxin free.

Coconut oil can also relieve headaches when rubbed onto the temples and forehead.

Common ailments and coconut

Toenail fungus: Coconut oil effectively inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria, that can cause cavities and mouth infections, without causing any harmful side-effects. Make a paste with one tablespoon of bicarbonate and soda and one tablespoon of coconut milk. Apply to infected toes then place clean socks on and leave overnight. Repeat if necessary.

Tooth decay and gum disease: Mix equal parts of coconut oil and bicarbonate of soda in a small jar with a lid. Use as toothpaste twice a day for a natural way to avoid tooth decay and gum disease.

Navel (belly button) and other fungal skin infections: Rub a small piece of solid coconut oil around the belly button then cover with a cotton wool pad and stick with medical tape and leave overnight. Repeat as often as is necessary. It should clear up within 2-3 days.

Worms and parasites: To kill intestinal parasites and worms: a tablespoon of the freshly ground coconut should be taken at breakfast followed by a dose of castor oil after three hours. The process may be repeated till the cure is complete.

WARNING: Castor oil should not be given to children below five years of age.

FIRE HAZARD WARNING: Coconut fibre belongs to the class of compounds known as flammable solids. It easily catches fire upon ignition, so keep external sources of potential ignition, such as sparks, matches and lit cigarettes, away from coconut fibre at all times.

Spontaneous combustion may also occur due to self-heating so is best stored in the refrigerator. If coconut fibre ignites, use carbon dioxide or foam to extinguish the flames.

Ailments coconut can help to treat

Related subjects

A to Z of natural foods
A – Z of nutrients

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