OCTOBER 1-2, 2011 COCUS NUCIFERA

"The successful person places more attention on dong the right thing rather than doing things right." Peter Drucker

I never would have thought that, but in a way it does make sense. I always want to do the right thing for an individual. A good example is seeing an older individual whom I know cannot afford a supplement, herb or even a doctor's visit. I tell the staff not to charge him or her, which I feel is the right thing to do. The individual cannot afford it. However I must generate an encounter bill in order to reconcile the bookkeeper's books and make her life easier.

There are many instances where you could apply the above quotation. Doing the right thing is never WRONG. I must be careful of always doing the right thing and never seeing the consequences.

Cocus nucifera is the scientific name for one of the most widespread trees in the world. I guarantee when you see this tree your mind conjures up visions of tranquility and serenity on a paradise island. It is the Coconut Palm Tree. Unlike other fruit producing trees, coconuts are produced year round. It takes about 14 months for a coconut to mature. The unique property of the coconut is the edible parts it produces. Sure we all know about the coconut water, but there is also the meat, milk, cream and oil of the coconut.

Today in the market you see coconut water and the milk products in abundance. I know some who drink 3-5 boxes of coconut water per day. Is this a good idea? I know that Whole Foods has been selling coconut ice cream in a variety of flavors for some time which makes those with dairy intolerance very happy. Is this good for you?

The use of the coconut is revered in some cultures. The milk is used as baby formula and the oil to soften and protect skin. It is used to strengthen the hair follicles. Its fruit is an important source of both food and medicine. Healers from the Philippines always include it in an herbal formula. Charcoal from burned coconut shell has been used as an absorptive agent for toxins and poisons. It is as effective as syrup of ipecac or activated charcoal.

Before we had medical physicians, the healers took care of people. Some of the conditions traditional healers treated with coconut include earache, menstrual problems, nausea, parasites, toothache, tuberculosis, and even syphilis.

One day I will meet a Manghihlot, a healer from the Philippines. Coconut oil is used as a main ingredient in their healing sessions. Because of the negative publicity of saturated fats causing blocked arteries, coconut oil has a bad reputation.

Because coconut oil is highly saturated, it has been criticized.

Should you avoid coconut oil?

Until tomorrow...