Few plants offer the world as many benefits as the coconut. Its name, 'kalpa vriksha' in Sanskrit, translates to 'the tree which provides all that is necessary for life.' This tree is biologically related to grasses and has provided food and medicine for countless peoples across the earth. In India, Ayurvedic doctors have long utilized the coconut for health and healing, and much of the information we've gathered regarding this plant's medicinal qualities have been used with great effect for centuries.

Taking almost nine months to filter each liter of water in its shell, the coconut is an amazing natural water filter. The water is pulled up through micro-fibers which purify it before it ends in the actual nut of the coconut. This clear life-giving fluid isone of the highest sources of electrolytes found in all of nature. Coconut water is a great re-hydrator and makes an ideal sports drink. When we consume a drink consisting of 55% fresh coconut water and 45% fresh green-leaf juice, or blue-green algaes, we create for ourselves an instantaneous infusion of life energy.

In the long discussion on healthy versus unhealthy fats, coconut oil tips the scales in terms of its health-giving qualities. While it is a saturated fat, not all saturated fats are bad for us. Coconut oil is cholesterol-free and does not transform into a trans-fat, which means it can be used at high heat. It has also been shown that coconut oil is more effective than olive oil at controlling cholesterol. Also, because it is a medium-chain fatty acid, it is easier for the body to digest, meaning the fat can be used more quickly as fuel.

Coconut oil is one of nature's most versatile and healthy fats. Studies show that coconut oil supports the health of the thyroid gland, which regulates thenecessary anti-aging steroids progesterone, DHEA and pregnenolone. These steroids are important to help prevent heart disease, senility, obesity, cancer and other degenerative diseases associated with aging. Coconut oil also contains capryllic acid as well as lauric acid, both of which are anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-microbial. It has long been known that caprilyc acid is the most potent yeast-fighting substance, making it an excellent choice for those working with candida and other inner ecology imbalances. Transitioning to coconut oil as one's fat source also helps to normalize blood sugar levels while increasing energy, building a healthy immune and nervous system and reducing the overall stress on one's system. It is helpful to note that a 'therapeutic dose' of coconut oil consists of daily doses of two to three (or more) tablespoons for an adult.

Not only is coconut a healthy fat choice, but it is also a delicious addition to one's diet. It can be used as a natural replacement for butter, margarine or other oils. The raw coconuts in their young stage are the most health-enhancing. The soft meat, also known as 'spoon meat,' consists of mostly pure, raw, saturated fat. The meat can be pureed and topped with bananas or other fruit. Coconut oil, or coconut butter, can be blended into salad dressing or smoothies. Coconut butter can also be used on top of brown rice or oats or spread on your favorite bread with cinnamon or jam.

Repairing and nourishing to the skin, coconut oil has been used for thousands of years as a health-enhancing skin moisturizer because it is ideal for all skins types, including dry, rough and wrinkled skin. Aromatherapy employs two types of coconut oil: fractionated and virgin. Virgin coconut oil is solid at room temperature and blends well with essential oils for a thick, nourishing body oil, which does not leave a greasy feel. The same oil that is used in cooking can be used in body care products. Fractionated coconut is a liquid oil that is made when the coconut molecule is cut to a smaller size. This process does not deplete the oil's healthy qualities, but instead allows us to use coconut oil in a liquid state - an excellent quality for massage applications. Also, fractionated coconut absorbs quickly, does not have the trademark coconut odor and has an extremely long shelf life, all pluses in many situations. Coconut is also blended with other carrier oils, such as jojoba, to create a luscious cream base. Creating your own body care items with coconut oil and essential oils is a lovely, and easy, way to enhance your personal health.

One more thing about the fabulous coconut: this oil is great for use in sexual play. Both the taste and smell of coconut add to the delights of intercourse. A great way to experience coconut is by mixing it with vanilla and cacao oils. Smooth this concoction over your lover's skin and enjoy.

If you're searching for a multi-use, healthy oil, search no further than the coconut. Whether you use it in skin blends, salads or massage creams, the coconut is an all-around excellent choice as both a carrier and edible oil. It takes essential oils beautifully and will not leave your skin feeling heavy or greasy. Use it in its many forms and see how this unique plant continues to benefit us in our day to day lives.

Learn more about using aromatic botanicals to ease menopause symptoms. To read more by this author enjoy her blog. 'Organic Medicinal Herbs.