Coconut Water Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Coconut water is the clear liquid that’s contained inside coconuts. Coconuts are the seed, fruit or nut of the coconut palm tree, a plant native to Malaysia but that grows in all tropical areas around the world.¹ Coconut water naturally occurs inside green coconut seeds that are typically the size of a volleyball. Younger coconuts that are harvested between the 5 and 7 month mark usually produce the most coconut water. Mature coconuts lose their natural coconut water as the white lining inside the shell of the nut thickens. As it thickens, coconut water turns into coconut milk, which isn’t as clear or as nutritional as the water.² Though it’s been consumed around the world for centuries, coconut water has become increasingly popular among the natural health community over the past several years. This is because of the many coconut water health benefits, including coconut water for skin.

Coconut Water Health Uses and Health Benefits

The most well-known of the many coconut water health benefits is its ability to provide intense hydration. Coconut water naturally contains electrolytes, which are important to restoring hydration. Because coconut water is sterile, when taken directly from the shell it can be used as an IV for rehydrating people who have suffered severe dehydration. Many athletes also use coconut water in place of a sports drink.² Additionally, coconut water for skin hydration is also important for treating sunburns, skin rash or other conditions that dry out the epidermis.² Other coconut water health benefits include:²

• Maintaining blood pressure
• Lowering cholesterol levels
• Aiding in weight loss
• Increasing energy levels
• Improving muscle stiffness

Additionally, coconut water contains potassium, magnesium and calcium which are important for muscle function and helping the body to relax.² Because of these coconut water health benefits, there are a number of coconut water uses for treating conditions naturally. These coconut water uses include:

• Dehydration - Coconut water is an excellent remedy for dehydration. It can add back necessary electrolytes to help restore nutrition and energy levels.
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) - Coconut water is high in potassium which helps lower and regulate blood pressure in people with hypertension.
• Heat Stroke - Heat stroke can cause severe dehydration. Coconut water can help restore hydration and increase electrolyte levels to help treat and prevent heat stroke.
• Measles - Coconut water is high in antioxidants which can help fight a measles infection. Coconut water can help to boost recovery times when suffering from measles.
• Sunburn - Coconut water for skin hydration can help to treat sunburns. Coconut water can cool body temperatures and soothe sunburnt skin.
• Acidosis - Acidosis is caused by an increase in acidity levels in the body often due to an increase in lactic acid. Coconut water can help neutralize acidity levels when lactic acid increases.

Coconut Water Side Effects and Precautions

There are very limited coconut water side effects and it is generally safe for most people to consume. If you have a coconut allergy then avoid consuming coconut water as it may produce allergic reactions.² Coconut water side effects may occur when consuming too much of it. Be sure to use natural coconut water to treat any health condition

References

1. http://www.botanical-online.com/english/coconut_tree.htm
2. https://draxe.com/is-coconut-water-good-for-you/