Loco for Coco: Philippine coconut for health and beauty

Article written by: Michelle Camille Correa

ASEAN-Korea blog correspondent, the Philippines

The coconut tree is commonly called by Filipinos as the “Tree of Life” because all its parts are useful, from its leaves to its roots. Parts of the coconut tree can be used in building and beautifying homes, as well as for food, cleaning our bodies, and more.

(photo from: en.wikipedia.org)

For example, coconut meat can be cooked into tasty treats like coconut chips, candies and other foods. And of course there’s protein-rich coconut milk and detoxifying coconut water. Coconut water can also be made into vinegar or wine.

Coconut oil, meanwhile, can be used in detergents. According to a study done in 1951, coconut oil is an effective sanitzer.  The oil from the coconut is also used for soap and shampoo.

Photo from: http://tipakan.com/truly-pinoy-lambanog

A variety of home décor can be made out of coconut leaves, such as waste baskets, trays, fans, lamp shades, floor mats, and placemats. For fashion, coconut leaves can be made into bags and hats.

Same goes for coconut shells, which can be made into beautiful and functional things like shell bags, ladles, lamp shades, guitars, coffee pots, and cups.

The strong coconut trunk can be made into benches and tables. It can even be used to make a house!

From coconut roots, we get medicine and dyestuff.

photo from: http://www.ccapfairtrade.com/index.crafts.html

According to the Philippine Coconut Authority, our country’s coconut industry rakes in dollars that in turn give livelihood to around one-third of the Filipino population. This makes our coconut industry an important part of our national development.

Moreover, the Bureau of Agricultural Research cites coconuts as one of our top ten export products. Around 3.26 million hectares of the Philippines’ arable agricultural land is used to grow coconuts.

The coconut is indeed a vital part of Filipinos’ lives.

But did you know that coconut can also keep you pretty and healthy? For health and beauty buffs in the Philippines, coconut oil and coconut water are two amazing liquids that may be as good as gold.

Coconut Oil: Moisturizer, Metabolism-booster and Immune System Protector

Photo from: http://romblongreenteam.com/medicinal-plants/virgin-coconut-oil

Coconut oil is a multitasking liquid, functioning as moisturizer, metabolism-booster, and immune system strengthener.

Coconut oil can be used as a natural moisturizer to keep our skin soft, smooth, and young-looking, thanks to two anti-microbial agents called capric acid and lauric acid. It is also rich in vitamin E. It can even be used as a sunscreen and hair conditioner for those with oily skin and scalp. It’s also versatile enough to be used as makeup remover, lip balm, cuticle cream and shaving oil!

Coconut oil helps keep our body in top shape by strengthening our immune system and helping boost our metabolism. It protects us from heart, colon, pancreatic and liver tumor. So feel free to use coconut oil for cooking or as a delectable salad dressing.

Coconut Water for Diet and Detox

photo from:http://www.ehow.com/facts_5232305_uses-coconut-water.html

Coconut water keeps you hydrated and your body cool. It helps your body flush out toxins so your body remains clean and healthy. How do you know coconut water helps your body detoxify? It shows on your skin, which becomes clean, clear and pimple-free.

Like coconut oil, coconut water also boosts your metabolism by supplying more oxygen to your body. The result? A leaner and healthier you!

Sources:

http://www.pca.da.gov.ph/tol.html

http://www.bar.gov.ph/agfishtech/crops/coconut.asp

http://www.truthinaging.com/beauty-360/drinking-oil-for-beauty

http://www.3fatchicks.com/3-beauty-benefits-of-coconut-water/

http://www.carefair.com/skincare/Coconut_Beauty_Secrets_1796.html

http://www.sheknows.com/beauty-and-style/articles/814761/kitchen-beautician-one-ingredient-12-beauty-products-1