USES & BENEFITS OF COCONUT MILK

     Coconut Tree is considered as 'KALPA VRIKSHA', which means, 'DIVINE TREE' which can fulfill all wishes. But in real terms, it could be termed as ' a tree which provides all that is necessary for a living'.  From the root to its leaves, each and every part of a coconut tree proves useful and is loaded with therapeutic benefits.
     Coconut Milk is often called as 'Miracle Liquid' - because of its high nutritional content and it's great ability to fight and prevent diseases and build up the body’s immunity. Coconut milk is a liquid naturally found in mature coconuts. When a coconut is cracked open, the thin liquid which is inside the coconut is the COCONUT WATER.  But the COCONUT MILK is what you get when you blend the white coconut flesh and then strain it.
     Coconuts are highly nutritious and rich in fibre, vitamins C, E, B1, B3, B5 and B6 and minerals including iron, selenium, sodium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorous. coconut Milk can be used as a milk substitute for people with lactose tolerance.
    Coconut Milk is one best Vegan choice and can be used in various recipes from curries, desserts, ice creams, smoothies, milk shakes etc., Coconut milk is higher in healthy saturated fatty acids and especially the lower fat variety and is advised to use in moderation. 
     Coconut Milk has loads of health benefits and innumerable culinary usage.  It enhances the taste and flavour of the dish it is added into.  Giving fresh note and slightly sweeter tinge to the dish.For homemade Coconut Milk recipe, click here...

1 Cup of Coconut Milk contains...

• Calories: 552.
• Fat: 57 grams.
• Protein: 5 grams.
• Carbs: 13 grams.
• Fiber: 5 grams.
• Vitamin C: 11% of the RDI.
• Folate: 10% of the RDI.
• Iron: 22% of the RDI.
• Magnesium: 22% of the RDI.
• Potassium: 18% of the RDI.
• Copper: 32% of the RDI.
• Manganese: 110% of the RDI.
• Selenium: 21% of the RDI.

*RDI - Recommended Daily Intake

BENEFITS OF COCONUT MILK :

FOR HEALTH :

Strong Bones : 

     Coconut milk contains Calcium and Phosphorus, the two major minerals which help to strengthen the bones.

Treatment of Arthritis:

     Selenium an antioxidant, found in coconut milk controls free radicals and thus relieves arthritis symptoms and decreases the risk of inflammation in joints.

Lowers Cholesterol:

     Though Coconut milk contains saturated fat it can reduce cholesterol levels, as it has Lauric Acid which boosts HDL (good) cholesterol. Coconut milk is easily broken down during digestion and metabolizes healthy fats such as omega 6, which is an essential fatty acid.

Source of Magnesium:

     Coconut milk is a rich source of Magnesium. This mineral helps to calm the nerves and maintain normal blood pressure as well as prevent nerve cells from becoming overactive. Magnesium also reduces muscle contraction and makes you feel more relaxed.

Aids Weight Loss:

If taken in moderation, can help to control weight. Though coconut milk is rich in saturated fats (fattening agent), it is also rich in Fiber, which makes you feel full for a longer time.

Stronger Immune System:

     Coconut milk contains Lauric Acid, Antimicrobial Lipids and Capric Acid which possesses Antibacterial, Antifungal and Antiviral properties. This lauric acid is converted into a compound called Monolaurin when it enters the body, which is believed to fight the viruses and bacteria that cause Herpes, Influenza and even HIV.

FOR SKIN & HAIR

     Coconut milk can be beneficial for your hair like Coconut Oil. It is used in hair masks as it nourishes our hair with Proteins.

Nourishes the Hair :

     Coconut milk cools the scalp and nourishes the hair by naturally moisturizing the root ends, hair follicles and stimulate hair growth.  Massage fresh coconut milk into your scalp for 3-5 minutes and leave it for at least 15 minutes before washing it off, which can prove beneficial in restoring dry & damaged hair.

Prevents Balding :

   Massaging the scalp with Coconut Milk diluted in water along with Camphor solution is a very good home remedy for balding. Massage your scalp including the bald spots with this mixture and leave it for a couple of hours. Rinse it off with warm water.

Helps in detangling the Hair :

    Apply some Coconut milk through your hair before combing. It acts as a natural detangler for your hair.

As Hair Conditioner:

    Coconut milk is a great hair conditioner, use it as a leave-on conditioner. Coconut Milk provides you with longer and thicker hair and also gives an added volume to your hair without making them greasy. Rub the coconut milk on your hair from roots to ends and leave them or wash it off with warm water after few hours.

Coconut Milk For Skin

     Coconut Milk is rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, iron and natural proteins which contribute to a smooth and radiant skin.

Moisturizer:

    Coconut milk replaces moisture in the dehydrated skin and is a great moisturizer. Rub some coconut milk on your skin and leave it for 30 minutes to get absorbed. This will combat dryness and promote healthy and glowing skin. Fresh homemade coconut milk serves best for this purpose.

Treatment of Sunburns:

     Coconut Milk can be very effective in treating skin damaged by harsh sunlight.Apply a thin layer of cool coconut milk to the area, leave it overnight or for few hours before washing it off. It helps in easing the pain of burns and rashes and gradually lightens the darkened scars formed due to sun burns.

Anti-ageing Benefits:

     Applying topically and using them in your diet improves skin conditions.  Nutrients in it help to slow down the ageing process of your skin and body by maintaining flexibility and elasticity of the skin and blood vessels. Thus, it prevents wrinkles, sagging skin and age spots.

Treatment of Skin Ailments:

     The moisturizing properties of coconut milk can soothe the symptoms of psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema. The natural fatty acids in this milk can help treat dry and irritated skin and also help remove harmful bacterias from your skin.

     From a part of the world where coconut, coconut and more coconuts with a name so synonymous to go along KERALA - GODS OWN COUNTRY / LAND OF COCONUTS. We use it as grated coconut, coconut milk, coconut oil - it is been in our daily diet and lifestyle for ages. Coconut in grated form and as Milk is used in a variety of dishes.  Coconut Oil, on the other hand, is used for cooking and also as hair & body oil and in the preparation of medicated oils in Ayurveda. Oil prepared from the roots of Coconut Tree proves beneficial to get rid of joint pains. Nothing new as far as we know.  With new dimensions of Virgin Coconut Oils in stores with an unimaginable price for a small bottle - make me wince a bit. But the very name 'KALPA VRIKSHA' or Divine Tree which can fulfil any wish - would have been named by wise men of the ages who lived along with 'Nature' and who has understood the basic nature and benefits of Coconuts and its products from time immemorial.

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*DISCLAIMER:

Please remember these options are only meant as guidelines and in no way replaces the advice or treatment provided by your medical practitioner. It is always good to seek the advice of your physician for professional advice in any matter related to your health. This is for information purposes only.