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Learn About The Bounty Of Health You'll Find In A Coconut

By: Caroline Ashton

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Coconuts are a bountiful gift to this planet. In Sanskrit (the mother language of India), the coconut palm is known as 'kalpa vriksha', meaning ' the tree that supplies all that is needed to live.' An ancient plant that is distantly related to grasses, the coconut has been used as a food and medicine since the dawn of history. Ayurveda (the art of science and medicine that has its roots in India) has long advocated the therapeutic, medicinal and cosmetic properties of coconuts.
The coconut's liquid filtration system is one of the reasons why this beloved plant is so nourishing. Every liter of water in its shell takes almost nine months to be drawn up and through the plant, where it is deposited in the nut. More electrolytes are found in coconut water than in most other plants, making it an ideal hydrating liquid. Drinking a mixture of 55% coconut and 45% green juice gives the body an immediate burst of natural energy.
In the long discussion on healthy versus unhealthy fats, coconut oil tips the scales in terms of its health-giving qualities. While it is a saturated fat, not all saturated fats are bad for us. Coconut oil is cholesterol-free and does not transform into a trans-fat, which means it can be used at high heat. It has also been shown that coconut oil is more effective than olive oil at controlling cholesterol. Also, because it is a medium-chain fatty acid, it is easier for the body to digest, meaning the fat can be used more quickly as fuel.
Coconut oil is one of nature's most versatile and health-enhancing fats. Studies show that coconut oil supports the health of the thyroid gland, which regulates thenecessary anti-aging steroids progesterone, DHEA and pregnenolone. These steroids are required to help prevent heart disease, senility, obesity, cancer and other degenerative diseases associated with aging. Coconut oil also contains capryllic acid as well as lauric acid, both of which are anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-microbial. It has long been known that caprilyc acid is the most potent yeast-fighting substance, making it an excellent choice for those working with releasing candida and other inner ecology imbalances. Transitioning to coconut oil as one's fat source also helps to normalize blood sugar levels while increasing energy, building a healthy immune and nervous system and reducing the overall stress on one's body. It is necessary to note that a 'therapeutic dose' of coconut oil consists of daily doses of two to three (or more) tablespoons for an adult.
Not only is coconut a healthy fat choice, but it is also a delicious addition to one's diet. It can be used as a natural replacement for butter, margarine or other oils. The raw coconuts in their young stage are the most health-enhancing. The soft meat, also known as 'spoon meat,' consists of mostly pure, raw, saturated fat. The meat can be pureed and topped with bananas or other fruit. Coconut oil, or coconut butter, can be blended into salad dressing or smoothies. Coconut butter can also be used on top of brown rice or oats or spread on your favorite bread with cinnamon or jam.
Coconut's reputation as a skin nutrient is well-documented, and people with many skin types can benefit from its moisture-giving qualities. In aromatherapy, both virgin and fractionated coconut oils are used. A way to see the difference is to remember that virgin coconut oil looks more like coconut flesh. It is a solid fat that is used in both cooking and body care, and it can be mixed with aromatic oils. While it is certainly a dense oil, virgin coconut oil doesn't leave the skin feeling too oily, as it is absorbed rapidly. Fractionated coconut has similar qualities, but it is made by physically reducing the size of the fat molecule, removing the section of the molecule that makes it a solid. This creates a liquid oil that has no odor, lasts a long time (its molecular structure makes it "fully saturated," meaning it has no atomic space for oxygen to attach, thereby deteriorating the oil) and is quickly consumed by the skin. Sometimes coconut is mixed with other oils, like jojoba, resulting in a nutrient-rich cream. With so many coconut oils to choose from, mixing coconut with aromatic oils is a simple way to add to your health and beauty regimen.
One more thing about the fabulous coconut: this oil is great for use in as a moisturizer for couples. Both the taste and smell of coconut add to the delights of loving partners. A great way to experience coconut is by mixing it with vanilla and cacao oils. Smooth this concoction over your lover's skin and enjoy.
Coconut is truly an ideal oil to experiment with. Its applications extend from the dinner table to the massage table, and when used with essential oils, its natural splendor is completely enhanced. Try it in its virgin or fractionated state and bring more of coconut's life-enhancing gifts into your world.

Article Source: http://depositarticles.com/

For more on the wonderful therapeutic potential of aromatherapy and essential oils, visit www.anandaapothecary.com and www.synergyessentialoils.com.

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