Cocos nucifera L., commonly known as the Coconut Palm, is a tall, perennial tree belonging to the Arecaceae family. It is often referred to as the “Tree of Life” due to its multiple utilities — from food and medicine to fuel and shelter. Every part of the plant, including the fruit, water, shell, husk, leaves, and roots, holds nutritional, commercial, and medicinal value. The kernel, coconut oil, and tender coconut water are rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds beneficial for human health.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum (Division): Angiosperms
- Class: Monocots
- Order: Arecales
- Family: Arecaceae
- Genus: Cocos
- Species: Cocos nucifera L.
Common Names
- English: Coconut, Coconut Palm
- Sanskrit: Nārikelā
- Hindi: Nārīyal
- Gujarati: Nāriyēl
- Tamil: Thēṅkai
- Malayalam: Thengu
- Marathi: Nārāl
Traditional and Medicinal Uses
- Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory: Phenolic and flavonoid compounds protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Antimicrobial & Antifungal: Coconut oil and husk extracts exhibit activity against bacteria and fungi.
- Antidiabetic: Certain extracts help in lowering blood glucose and improving lipid metabolism.
- Hepatoprotective & Immunomodulatory: Studies suggest liver-protecting and immune-boosting effects.
- Skin and Wound Healing: Coconut oil aids in moisture retention and tissue repair.
- Nutritional Support: Coconut water replenishes electrolytes and promotes hydration.
References
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Vol. III. Government of India, Ministry of AYUSH.
- Alves, E. S., et al. (2015). Cocos nucifera (L.) (Arecaceae): A phytochemical and pharmacological review. Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, 48(12).
- DebMandal, M., & Mandal, S. (2011). Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.): In health promotion and disease prevention. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 142(1), 1–8.
- Ojha, S., et al. (2019). Review of Cocos nucifera L. testa-derived phytonutrients with applications in functional foods. Journal of Functional Foods, 57, 169–182.
- Rahman, S., et al. (2012). Antimicrobial Properties of Cocos nucifera: A Review. Journal of the Coconut Community (ICC).
- Chopra, R. N., Nayar, S. L., & Chopra, I. C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.
- Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia. (2002). Vol. II. Regional Research Laboratory, Jammu-Tawi & Indian Drug Manufacturers’ Association, Mumbai.
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