World Coconut Day 2023: You can’t make a pia colada or a respectable Thai curry without it, its water makes an excellent recovery drink, and when burned, its fibrous husk repels mosquitos; these are just three of the many reasons to celebrate World Coconut Day on September 2. The coconut plant (and its numerous parts) is one of nature’s most versatile products, as it can be used for food and drink, cosmetics, and decoration. Some proponents of the coconut (cocoproponents?) claim that the fruit’s oil can rectify tooth decay if swished in the mouth for 20 minutes per day. Most of us are uncomfortable with a mouthful of oil, regardless of where it originates from or what it’s intended to do. However, we are still susceptible to the coconut obsession. Whether you’re on a deserted island or in the convenience of your own home, here are some (relatively normal) ways to use this tropical marvel.
World Coconut Day 2023: HISTORY
On World Coconut Day, we are coconuts for coconuts. The purpose of this holiday is to highlight the significance and benefits of coconuts, not only from a health perspective but also economically. The majority of coconut production centres are facilitated by the APCC, the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community, which promotes the cultivation of coconuts in Asia and the Pacific.
The origin of the adorable moniker of the coconut is intriguing. As depicted in numerous cartoons and children’s illustrations, a coconut’s surface features three indentations that resemble a human visage. According to ancient Iberian folklore, when the Portuguese and Spanish explorers saw these depressions, they thought of the bogeyman or a similar creature. The mythical character from their native nations was named Coco, and thus the word “coconut” was created.
Thanks to Arab mariners, the coconut made its way from India to the coast of East Africa, and from Southeast Asia to the west of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean and to the east of the Pacific.
Since then, coconuts have provided us with a diverse array of products and benefits. The coconut’s tender white flesh is used in a variety of cuisines, while the oil, milk, and water can be used for cooking and non-cooking purposes. Coconut butter, coconut cream, and coconut oil are common ingredients in cosmetic products, while coconut husks and leaves are used to construct doormats, roofs, and huts.
In 2009, the first celebration of World Coconut Day commemorated the founding of the APCC. The International Coconut Community chooses an annual theme for World Coconut Day. The theme for 2020 was ‘Invest In Coconut To Save The World.’
World Coconut Day: Coconut a magic staple ingredient in most households
WORLD COCONUT DAY EVENTS
Split one wide
It’s a lot of joy to crack open a real coconut, and no, a machete is not required. There are a variety of techniques, so view some YouTube videos. Be sure to save the coconut water before removing the sweet flesh for a snack, whichever method you choose.
Cook something unusual
If you have only ever consumed coconuts in tropical drinks and macaroons, familiarise yourself with its savoury aspect. Try your hand at coconut curry, coconut shrimp, coconut-lime rice and even onion rings coated with coconut!
Host a Polynesian bash.
Why not host a Polynesian-themed party now that you have all of these coconutty treats? They are best conducted in the backyard, where tiki torches can be used to illuminate the area. Provide leis and/or grass skirts, decorate with orchids and tropical fruit, and play festive ukulele music to set the atmosphere for your guests. Remember to include umbrellas in the beverages!
World Coconut Day 2023: FCATS
- As a source of antioxidants, consuming coconut and imbibing its water can strengthen the immune system and combat disease.
- Due to their low calorie and high fibre content, diabetics can consume more coconuts to help control their blood sugar.
- Indians swear by coconut oil to nurture their hair, as it not only conditions hair, leaving it soft and luxurious, but also treats a variety of hair issues.
- From mosquito bites to anti-aging, coconut oil is beneficial for treating scars, scabs, and wounds on the skin and averting dull skin.
- Coconut is frequently grated and added to various dishes to add flavour and texture.
