- Region
- Asia
- Origin
- Asia (Southeast Asia), Oceania (Pacific), now pantropical
- Sanskrit
- Narikela
- Traditions
- Ayurveda, Jamu in Indonesia
Asia · Food · № 357
Cocos nucifera
Food · Asia
Coconut
Cocos nucifera
Traditionally attributed effects: cooling, diuretic, antiseptic, laxative; root for uterine diseases, bronchitis, liver complaints, dysentery, sore throat (gargle); coconut water for thirst, fever, urinary complaints and vomiting; ash for scabies and toothache.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Fruit 25–35 g; oil 1–1.5 ml; root decoction; coconut water; ash of the bark as tooth powder.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica, Ayurveda in the kitchen and daily care and natural skin and hair care. Sanskrit name: Narikela. In India the coconut palm is called kalpavriksha, 'tree that grants all wishes', because every part is useful. Coconut water has been studied as a rehydration drink; coconut oil is used in Kerala and Indonesia for hair, skin and oil pulling. In Indonesia (kelapa) it is a regular jamu ingredient.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Cooling, diuretic, antiseptic, laxative; root for uterine diseases, bronchitis, liver complaints, dysentery, sore throat (gargle); coconut water for thirst, fever, urinary complaints and vomiting; ash for scabies and toothache.
Preparation and amount
Fruit 25–35 g; oil 1–1.5 ml; root decoction; coconut water; ash of the bark as tooth powder.
Everyday Ayurveda
Attributed effects
Cooling; natural protection against the sun; nourishes hair and skin; prevents premature grey hair.
Preparation and amount
Coconut oil for massage and as hair oil in summer and autumn; on the face before sun exposure; coconut milk in the hair against greying; coconut water in summer.
Natural skin and hair care
Attributed effects
Very moisturising, softens the skin.
Preparation and amount
External: coconut oil in lip gloss, coconut balm, foot scrub, massage compress, hair oil; coconut milk in milk bath.