Few plants offer the world as many benefits as the coconut. Its name, ‘kalpa vriksha’ in Sanskrit, translates to ‘the tree which provides all that is necessary for life.’ This tree is biologically related to grasses and has provided food and medicine for countless peoples across the earth. In India, Ayurvedic doctors have long utilized the coconut for health and healing, and much of the information we’ve gathered regarding this plant’s medicinal qualities have been used with great effect for centuries.

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 healthy 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 important 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 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 system. It is helpful to note that a ‘therapeutic dose’ of coconut oil consists of daily doses of two to three (or more) tablespoons for an adult.

Cooking with coconut oil is a fun way to introduce this supplement into your life. Try using it instead of margarine, butter or other vegetable oils. Also, consider using fresh coconuts that are not too old (i.e., forgo the shaved coconut and opt for a whole coconut instead).The meat is primarily fat, and it can be chopped and eaten with fruit for a delectable treat. Coconut oil is also great as an oil for veggies, tossed into your morning smoothie or buttered on bread with spices or preserves. If you’re looking for a way to enliven oats or rice, coconut oil adds a special note to a normally humble dish.

Repairing and nourishing to the skin, coconut oil has been used for thousands of years as a skin moisturizer because it is ideal for all skins types, including dry, rough and wrinkled skin. Aromatherapy uses two types of coconut oil: fractionated and virgin. Virgin coconut oil is solid at room temperature and blends well with essential oils for a thick, nourishing body oil, which does not leave a greasy feel. The same oil that is used in cooking can be used in body care products. Fractionated coconut is a liquid oil that is made when the coconut molecule is cut to a smaller size. This process does not deplete the oil’s healthy qualities, but instead allows us to use coconut oil in a liquid state – an excellent quality in massage applications. Also, fractionated coconut absorbs quickly, does not have a coconut odor and has an extremely long shelf life, all pluses in many situations. Coconut is also blended with other carrier oils, such as jojoba, to create a luscious cream base. Creating your own body care items with coconut oil and essential oils is a lovely, and easy, way to enhance your personal health.

One more thing about the fabulous coconut: this oil is great for use in sexual play. Both the taste and smell of coconut add to the delights of intercourse. 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.