Cocos nucifera (Coconut palm)
Dr. John J. Lal
Coconut palm is one of the most useful trees in the world. Each and every part of the palm is useful in one-way or the other. Hence in Sanskrit it is called the �Kalpa Vriksha�, which means that it is a tree that provides all the necessities of life. It constitutes the part and parcel of all religious and cultural activities and forms a major source of income of the people in coconut growing countries. Its importance in ayurvedic preparations highlights its medicinal properties. The nutritional aspects of coconut palm is centered around its nuts. The kernel and oil extracted from the nuts are used for culinary purposes. The edible oil is a very rich source of medium chain saturated fatty acid, especially lauric acid. Minor products like toddy and its by-products also have its own significance. Roots, trunk, leaves, inflorescence, flowers, anther, bud, coconut bread etc. are also nutritionally important. A large number of value added products from coconut palm is reaching the market, which shows the society�s concern over this tree and its products.