Coconut Uses – How the Coconut Proved Its Worth

The physical properties and nutrients of coconuts can vary depending on their maturity. Young coconuts have either a white husk or a green shell, and possess larger amounts of coconut water and softer meat. On the other hand, mature coconuts, the brown and hairy variety, have less water and firmer meat.

Whether they’re young or mature, coconuts are considered the “plant of life” due to their astounding commercial and domestic uses:

Parts of the coconut palm, as well as the exterior layers of its fruit, are turned into several products, from simple kitchen tools and utensils to strong structures – for both humans and animals. Some of these coconut parts include:

• Coconut husks
• Coconut shells
• Coconut leaves
• Coconut trunk
• Coconut roots

The meat and water within its fruit are rich resources of nutrients. Native cultures in Asia, Pacific Islands, South America, and limited parts of North America use coconut fruit as a staple in their diets. Some popular coconut products are:

• Coconut meat
• Coconut oil
• Coconut milk
• Coconut water
• Coconut wine
• Coconut vinegar