World Coconut Day: How South India Became Largest Contributor Of The Nut And Its Significance In Households

The World Coconut Day is celebrated around the world to raise awareness about the plantation and the ways coconut can be grown and preserved worldwide.

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Chennai: A hot steaming Avial or the piping Thai curry, both the recipes have something in common making the taste unbeatable. Thanks to coconuts, they not just play the role of a taste enhancer in any dish but also have several health benefits with rich sources of copper and iron. The sudden mention of coconut on August 2, Thursday, is because it's the day of the tropical nut. 

The World Coconut Day is celebrated around the world to raise awareness about the plantation and the ways coconut can be grown and preserved. In the world, Asia is the biggest consumer of coconuts and the day was first celebrated by the Asia Pacific Coconut Community in 2009. In India, the Coconut Development Board promotes coconut usage and the nut is used in various parts of the country especially in the coastal belts.

Coconuts are widely grown in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. The southern parts of the country have become the largest contributor to the nut. 

According to reports, Indonesia is the top producer of coconut followed by Philippines and India. Coconut have several health benefits and can even be used for cosmetic purposes. All the parts of the coconut including the outer shell is used for multiple purposes. 

The white layer or the kernel can be grated or shaved. The oil from coconut can be used for cooking and cosmetic purposes. 

Coconuts contain high nutritious value including minerals and Vitamin B. Coconuts are rich in copper and iron along with protein. Coconut can benefit health of the heart and promote in reducing blood sugar. They also contain antioxidants.