Cocos nucifera-the oil of this fruit i.e the edible oil from the kernel of the mature coconut fruit is considered to be one of the healthiest foods. Popular for its pleasant aroma, taste, powerful antioxidant properties, healthy fatty acids and essential fatty acids. The most loved and most stocked ingredient of Indian Homes and considered to be a magic superfood in South India. The plant is native to South India especially Kerala, Bengal, Odisha, Sri Lanka &Burma. Nutritionally, it is a source of small amounts of Vitamin A & B, larger amounts of Phosphorus, Iron, Manganese and Zinc. The chemical analysis of oil shows that it has Lauric acid, Myristic acid, Palmitic acid, Stearic acid & Caprylic Acid. These grant the oil its antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties thus guarding the skin against pimples, rashes, and other skin infections. Thus, Coconut oil finds extensive usage in cosmetic and skincare. Also has a place as a favoured ingredient in home remedies for skincare routines.
The properties of Coconut oil as per the Dravayaguna Analysis in Ayurveda are considered to be the same as that of the coconut fruit. Hence, it is heavy/dense lubricant, Sweet in taste and after digestion effect, also cooling in nature. Thus, it is an excellent healer in case of burns-rejuvenation of skin & healing being its wonder-property. These days it is used extensively by athletes, bodybuilders and weight watchers. As per Ayurveda, also, it is an oil which is helpful in KARSHAN(weight loss/management). The fat present in coconut oil is quickly converted into an instant source of energy &does not lead to building up of fat and arteries. Coconut oil is also used for healing the lesions of gastric and peptic ulcers, used internally as it is or as apart of various treatment protocols, procedures and even in combination with herbal medicines. It heals the lining of the organs of the digestive tract. It boosts energy and boosts the overall performance of athletes.
It is used for cooking, baking and chocolate preparations due to its compatibility with various flavours &tastes. Also is versatile and suitable for various cooking methods. Oil pulling or the traditional KAWAL & GANDOOSH treatments in Ayurveda that are prescribed in DIncharya as well as in diseases of the mouth, Gums, Teeth etc in SHALAKYA TANTRA recommend the use of coconut oil or herbal preparations with coconut oil as a base. From head to toe, season to season, external to internal use of coconut oil has a vital place in daily life in mantainance of good health, preventive regimes, beauty and healing.
Dr Ashima Gulati Sardana BAMS(DU),MD(AM),PGPPanchakarma(Pune University),PGDMLS(Symbiosis) General Ayurveda Practice & at Traditional Panchakarma Centres, Consultant at Weight Management Centres & Spas, Health Care centres in small pockets of urban floating population and R&D work for the development of Wellness Products. Dr Ashima Gulati Sardana is ayurvedic doctor with 19+ years of post-qualification experience varying from the management of chronic, recurrent & Lifestyle related health issues with Ayurveda, Panchakarma Treatments and Aromatherapy in the contemporary context of Lifestyle management & Wellness. The approach is holistic for easy adaptations of Ayurveda Fundamentals in daily life thereby preserving good health and targeting the prevention of diseases.
