40 Amazing Benefits Of Coconut Water For Skin, Hair And Health

The temperature is increasing day by day, and now is the perfect time to sip our favourite summer drink, coconut water! Coconut water is a very popular drink and is consumed by people of all ages across the world. It is touted for its healing and medicinal properties. And on top of that, it is easily available all over the country and is affordable too. It is a gift of nature that benefits us both internally when ingested and externally when applied topically.

It has been used to treat a variety of health problems from the time unknown. It has been used for everything, from a medicinal tonic in tropical lotions to sports recovery drinks, because of its high content of potassium and antioxidants. Coconut water has less sugar than any other sports drink and much less sugar than sodas and some fruit juices. On any given day, Coconut water is always a better option for kids and adults looking for a beverage. It is the most natural way to replenish the supply of electrolytes in our body and prevent dehydration and acidity.

Hawaiians refer to coconut water as “Noelani”, which means ‘Dews from the heavens’. The name is indeed justified. Once you learn about the benefits of coconut water, you will know it yourself. Coconut water is used for various religious reasons in India. Whenever a new Endeavour is about to be started, a coconut is smashed to the ground as a sign of success. Also not just the water, coconut oil, milk and flesh also serve various purposes. You can rejuvenate yourself using this naturally gifted fruit which contains the miracles of nature.

A. Coconut Water Health Benefits:

Drinking coconut water can save us from various health related problems. It contains a whole lot of supplements and nutrients that are needed to sustain life.

Potassium- It helps to lower arterial blood pressure

Glucose- It acts as a sugar needed for energy.

Vitamin C- It shields the body from several ailments.

Vitamin B – It aids in the replacement of worn out tissues.

1. Hydrating Properties:

Coconut water is widely known to replace the minerals and fluids that we lose during physical activities. People who work out on a regular basis should drink a lot of coconut water.

2. Anti Ageing:

Coconut water contains cytokines and lauric acid, the two important elements which are used in the process of cell growth and their regulation. It has significant anti-ageing, anti-carcinogenic and anti-thrombotic properties which helps to minimize skin aging, balances PH levels and keeps the connective tissue hydrated and strong.

3. Cardiovascular Health:

Coconut water is rich in magnesium and potassium and is helpful for people who suffer from low blood pressure. It also reduces the risk of heart attacks. Coconut water regulates the blood circulation and prevents the formation of plaque. Drinking coconut water regularly contributes to health and prevents heart strokes. Coconut water also helps to increase good cholesterol which makes it a wonderful treatment for maintaining good cardiovascular health.

4. Increases Metabolic Rate:

Regular consumption of coconut water increases the metabolism rate which helps to burn sugar a lot faster. As a result, the level of insulin in a person’s body burns faster. Thus a person has more energy and loses fat faster.

5. Kidney Stones:

Coconut water also helps in dissolving kidney stones because of the presence of potassium, which plays a key role in urine alkalizing and preventing formation of kidney stones.

6. Digestion:

Coconut water is composed of bioactive enzymes such as folic acid, phosphatase, catalase, dehydrogenase, diastase, peroxidase, RNA polymerases and so on. These enzymes help in easy digestion and metabolism. The water also has more minerals like calcium, manganese and zinc than some fruits like oranges. It is also a good source of Vitamin B such as riboflavin, thiamine, pyridoxine, and folates. Human body requires them from external sources to replenish and hence It becomes very essential to the human body.

7. Boosts Energy:

Abundant in essential nutrients, coconut water makes a wonderful energy drink. Coconut water has less sugar and sodium content and has high content of potassium, calcium and chloride which helps to hydrate, replenish and rejuvenate the body.

8. Dehydration:

Coconut water has been used to treat dehydration caused by dysentery, cholera, diarrhoea and stomach flu. The electrolyte balance and plasma content in coconut water has been found to be similar to human blood. Thus coconut water after workout helps to replenish the body.

9. Muscle Cramps:

One of the biggest benefits of coconut water is that it prevents muscle cramps. Coconut water is high in potassium, whose deficiency can lead to muscle cramps.

10. Stronger Bones:

Coconut water is rich in calcium and is needed for healthy bones, muscles and also tissues.

11. Manages Stress:

Coconut oil consists of Vitamin B derivatives like riboflavin, thiamine and pantothenic acid which help to reduce stress, anxiety and depression.

12. Diuretic Properties:

Coconut water is effective as a diuretic as it expedites the flow of urine. Coconut water mixed with lemon juice not only aids dehydration, but also helps to cure intestine worms in children.

13. Bloating:

Bloating treatment and prevention is one of the top health benefits of coconut water. It often minimizes flatulence and makes one feel more comfortable.

14. Weight Loss:

Coconut water has time and again proven to be very effective for losing weight. This drink has been viewed as one of the healthiest ways to lose weight as it is a natural drink and contains no chemicals whatsoever. Coconut water has been used for centuries all over the world for weight loss and has shown positive results. Moreover it is extremely palatable, so you can relish the goodness of coconut water as an early morning juice.

15. Controls Diabetes:

Coconut water also helps to control diabetes. Coconut water, when consumed regularly has the ability to improve blood circulation within the body. It helps to widen the blood vessels which get restricted due to the formation of plaque within them and helps the blood to flow smoothly through them. It also helps to fight against atherosclerosis.

16. Neutralise Poison Effect:

Green coconut water is the best medicine for some diseases like constipation, heartburn, neutralizing toxins, dengue fever and dysentery.

17. Antioxidants:

Antioxidants in coconut water help in fighting free radicals; it also helps to reduce the swelling in hands and legs. It helps to overcome the toxic effect of antibiotics and sulpha drugs. Thus it is very useful for patients as it helps to absorb drugs easily.

18. Reduces Blood Pressure:

Incorrect level of electrolytes can result in high blood pressure. Coconut water contains a perfect balance of electrolytes hence, it can be used as a balancing mechanism. Doctors sometimes recommended that coconut water be consumed at the start of each day by BP patients to balance electrolytes.

B. Benefits of Coconut Water For Skin:

It is a wonder ingredient for the skin as it keeps the skin healthy and beautiful.

19. As Moisturizer:

Coconut water can be used as a moisturizer during both summers and winters. It has a light consistency and can be an excellent moisturizer that can be applied all over the body. It is an ideal moisturizer for people with oily skin as it helps to reduce the oiliness of the skin. Coconut water consumption enhances the skin from within.

20. Skin Hydration:

Skin hydration is very important. Dehydration can sap all the charm and leaves the skin lifeless. Coconut water treats dull and dry skin and imparts a glow to the face. It has natural properties which hydrates the skin giving a glow and smoothness to the face that you have always wished for.

21. Oxygen Circulation:

Poor oxygen circulation results in impurities getting deposited on the skin. Each and every cell in the body needs an adequate amount of oxygen which is possible only through proper blood circulation in the body that carries oxygen throughout the body. Coconut water is very effective in boosting proper circulation in the body, thereby allowing the skin to breathe a lot of healthy oxygen which in turn promotes a healthy and flawless complexion.

22. Anti-ageing Properties:

Skin ageing is the most common problem for everyone, and more than the age, it is the pollution and chemical laden cosmetics which steal your natural beauty away. The presence of cytokinins in coconut water has anti-ageing properties. To look younger, drink coconut water regularly to keep your skin fresh, healthy and glowing.

23. Sun Tan:

Sun tan is a common problem for everyone. Each one of us gets tanned due to prolonged exposure to the sun. Coconut water can also solve this problem effortlessly. Mix fullers earth (multani mitti) with coconut water and use this natural scrub daily. This will remove all the tan and will leave the skin radiant and glowing. This is a completely natural scrub which you can use daily without worrying about the chemicals.

24. Skin Infection:

Another skin problem that most of us suffer from is skin infection, especially during the monsoons and summers. Coconut water has many healing, anti-viral, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal properties which keep skin safe from infections. You can apply it directly on the skin or can even mix it in your bathing water. Both ways you can treat the infection to a great extent.

25. Oily Skin:

Coconut water is a blessing for oily skinned people. It helps to wash off excess oil from the skin, cleanses the oil and makes skin tone more even. People with Oily skin tend to have a shiny face. Coconut water helps to control shine and provides a natural glow to the face.

26. For Acne and Blemishes:

Washing face with coconut water regularly can also eliminate acne, black spots, wrinkles and blemishes on the skin. Stubborn acne can also be treated by making a mixture with 25 grams of turmeric paste with a glass of coconut water. Leave this overnight, then add 3 teaspoons of red sandalwood powder and stir all the ingredients well. Save this mixture undisturbed for 3 days. Strain the mixture and apply on the face till acne disappears.

27. Antioxidants:

Coconut water is rich in antioxidants that help to remove free radicals that which damage the skin. Free radical comes from stressors within our own body. Emotional stress reduces the flow of blood to our skin and contributes to the ageing process. Consuming coconut water in high quantities improves the skin health and vitality, and removes damaging free radicals from the body.

C. Benefits Of Coconut Water For Hair:

28. Fights Hair Loss: 

Coconut water addresses hair loss issues by improving blood circulation in the scalp, strengthening the hair follicles and increasing the density of the hair.

29. Fights Dryness: 

Dull, dry and frizzy hair is hard to manage and looks unsightly too. Massaging your hair with coconut water prior to bathing will help you to get rid of rough and unruly hair and will make your hair soft, smooth and manageable.

30. Prevents Breakage: 

Lauric acid, present in coconut water gives water conditioning abilities. Lauric acid shields the hair proteins and protects the root of the hair strands preventing hair breakage.

31. Conditions Hair: 

Coconut water also moisturizes the hair and possesses the ability of penetrating into the hair shaft by conditioning the hair from within. The water can be consumed and can also be used to wash hair.

32. Helps Hair Growth: 

Coconut water’s antibacterial, anti-fungal properties protect the scalp against dandruff, lice and itchy scalp, all of which can hinder hair growth.

33. Gives Shine: 

Coconuts are a rich source of hair loving nutrients like Vitamin, Vitamin K and iron. These nutrients are essential for maintaining your hair’s shine and softness.

D. Benefits Of Coconut Water During Pregnancy: 

With such wide ranging benefits, it is no wonder that having coconut water during pregnancy is extremely beneficial.

34. Fights Bacteria: 

Coconut water is naturally sterile and is especially good for pregnant women as it helps to improve the immunity and the health of both mother and the baby. The anti-bacterial, anti-fungal properties prevent infection and illness during pregnancy.

35. Gives Good Complexion: 

Doctors recommend drinking coconut water mixed with saffron and turmeric. This gives the baby a healthy and fair complexion.

36. Fights Acidity:

Pregnant women mostly suffer from acidity problems. Drugs and medicines should be avoided at this stage. So coconut water is the best natural remedy for acidity and heart burns.

37. Treats Infection: 

Its natural diuretic properties treat urinary tract infection in pregnant women. Drinking coconut water increases the flow of urine and gets rid of this infection naturally.

38. Foetus Health:

Coconut water boosts the levels of amniotic fluid and improves the overall health of the foetus.

39. Completely Natural:

Coconut water is free from artificial flavouring and colouring, unnatural sugars, high fructose syrup or other chemical ingredients that pregnant women and their growing foetus should avoid.

40. Contains Nutrients:

Fetal development receives a unique boost from an array of vitamins, nutrients and anti-oxidants present in fresh coconut water. Coconut water is one of the best sources for preventing health issues in pregnant women because it refreshes the body with vitamins and fibers. It also helps in boosting the immune system which is essential for both, mother and the baby. Having a glass of coconut water on daily basis will be beneficial for healthy living.

Now that you know how beneficial coconut water is, just drink it and feel the difference in yourself.

Principle	Nutrient Value	Percentage of RDA
Energy	19 Kcal	1%
Carbohydrates	3.71 g	3%
Protein	0.72 g	1.5%
Total Fat	0.20 g	1%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Dietary Fiber	1.1 g	3%
Vitamins
Folates	3 µg	0.75%
Niacin	0.080 mg	0.5%
Pantothenic acid	0.043 mg	<1%
Pyridoxine	0.032 mg	2.5%
Riboflavin	0.057 mg	4%
Thiamin	0.030 mg	2.5%
Vitamin C	2.4 mg	4%
Vitamin A	0 IU	0%
Vitamin E	0 mg	0%
Vitamin K	0 mcg	0%
Electrolytes
Sodium	105 mg	7%
Potassium	250 mg	5%
Minerals
Calcium	24 mg	2.4%
Copper	40 mcg	4.5%
Iron	0.29 mg	3.5%
Magnesium	25 mg	6%
Manganese	0.142 mg	%
Zinc	0.10 mg	1%
Phyto-nutrients
Auxin (Gibberlin)	Present	–
Carotene,ß	0 µg	–
Cytokines	Present	–
Lutein-zeaxanthin	0 µg	–
Leucoanthocyanin	Present	–

Green Gram and Mix Vegetables Curry - South Indian Style

 

Ingredients:
1/4 cup Green gram 
1 Cup mix vegetables chopped(Carrots, String Beans,Potatoes) You can add green peas or anyother less watery vegetables.
1/4 tsp Turmeric powder
Salt to taste 
Oil 

 

1 tsp Cumin seeds
1/4 tsp Black peppercorns 
1/2 tsp Poppy seeds 
2 red chilies 
4 tbsp grated coconut 
Tempering:
1/2 tsp Mustard seeds
1/2 tsp Bengal gram 
1 Red chili
Few curry Leaves 

Pressure cook the green gram and drain the excess water and keep aside
In a medium sauce pan, heat 1 tsp oil add cumin seeds, black peppercorns, red chilies and poppy seeds. fry for 2-3 mins or until it turns light golden and grind with coconut and little to fine paste. 
In a heavy saucepan, add 2 cups of water(depending on the quantity of vegetables) bring to boil, add vegetables, tumeric powder and cook until the vegetables are tender and soft. 
Add cooked green gram and cook for 3-4 mins. Now, add the ground paste and salt and cook until combine thoroughly. Lastly, Heat oil in a small sacuce pan, add mustard seeds, bengal gram , red chilies and asafoetida powder and curry leaves when mustard seeds splutters mix it with the curry. 
Serve with hot rice or even goes well with chapathis, rotis.

5 powerful health benefits of asparagus you probably didn’t know

One of the first foods that signals the start of spring is the appearance of fresh asparagus at local farmers’ markets and grocery stores. Just as spring is a time of new beginnings, asparagus is one of those veggies that I love to experiment with during this time of year. 

Recipes to Try:
Lemony Asparagus Pasta and 19 More Dinners with Fresh Asparagus 
Asparagus with Curry Butter & More Simple Asparagus Side Dishes

And just as a spear is used as a weapon, asparagus’s javelin-shaped form could be viewed as symbolic for its age- and disease-fighting abilities. Asparagus is just packed with health benefits:

1. It’s loaded with nutrients: Asparagus is a very good source of fiber, folate, vitamins A, C, E and K, as well as chromium, a trace mineral that enhances the ability of insulin to transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells.
2. This herbaceous plant—along with avocado, kale and Brussels sprouts—is a particularly rich source of glutathione, a detoxifying compound that helps break down carcinogens and other harmful compounds like free radicals. This is why eating asparagus may help protect against and fight certain forms of cancer, such as bone, breast, colon, larynx and lung cancers.
3. Asparagus is packed with antioxidants, ranking among the top fruits and vegetables for its ability to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals. This, according to preliminary research, may help slow the aging process. 
   
   Related: The 3 Colors You Really Need to Eat More Of
4. Another anti-aging property of this delicious spring veggie is that it may help our brains fight cognitive decline. Like leafy greens, asparagus delivers folate, which works with vitamin B12—found in fish, poultry, meat and dairy—to help prevent cognitive impairment. In a study from Tufts University, older adults with healthy levels of folate and B12 performed better on a test of response speed and mental flexibility. (If you’re 50-plus, be sure you’re getting enough B12: your ability to absorb it decreases with age.)
5. One more benefit of asparagus: It contains high levels of the amino acid asparagine, which serves as a natural diuretic, and increased urination not only releases fluid but helps rid the body of excess salts. This is especially beneficial for people who suffer from edema (an accumulation of fluids in the body's tissues) and those who have high blood pressure or other heart-related diseases.

Don’t Miss: Why Asparagus Is One of 15 Foods You Don’t Need to Buy Organic

And finally, to answer a question I often get regarding why eating asparagus causes a strong urinary odor: asparagus contains a unique compound that, when metabolized, gives off a distinctive smell in the urine. Young asparagus contains higher concentrations of the compound so the odor is stronger after eating these vernal shoots. There are, however, no harmful effects, either from the sulfuric compounds or the odor! While it is believed that most people produce these odorous compounds after eating asparagus, few people have the ability to detect the smell.

The most common type of asparagus is green, but you might see two others in supermarkets and restaurants: white, which is more delicate and difficult to harvest, and purple, which is smaller and fruitier in flavor. No matter the type you choose, asparagus is a tasty, versatile vegetable that can be cooked in myriad ways or enjoyed raw in salads.

Keep in mind these cooking tips to preserve antioxidants and keep your preparation healthy:

• Roast, grill or stir-fry your asparagus. These quick-cooking, waterless methods will preserve the fabulous nutritional content and antioxidant power of asparagus. (Click here for how-to details on the best asparagus prep and cooking directions.)

• Enjoy your asparagus without salt, butter or sauces to get the most out of its diuretic properties, as salt can cause water retention in some people.

Here’s an easy recipe to try:

Asparagus Spears with Smoked Salmon and Tangy Mustard Dressing            

This is a great last-minute appetizer idea. Thicker asparagus spears are easier to handle for wrapping. [Recipes reprinted with permission from “Positively Ageless: A 28-Day Plan for a Younger, Slimmer, Sexier You” by Cheryl Forberg, R.D. (Rodale).]

Makes 4 servings (4 spears each)

Ingredients:
1 pound asparagus, tough ends snapped (about 16 spears)
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
4 thin slices smoked salmon (about 4 ounces), each cut in 4 lengthwise strips
2 tablespoons Tangy Mustard Dressing (see recipe below)
Cilantro sprigs or toasted sesame seed, for garnish

Instructions:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Lightly coat the asparagus with the oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Grill for 2 to 3 minutes, or until al dente but not soft. Remove from the grill. The asparagus will continue to cook as they cool. Do not overcook or the spears will be too soft and difficult to handle. When cool enough to handle, wrap each spear with a slice of the salmon. Arrange on a serving platter and drizzle with the dressing. Garnish with the cilantro or sesame seed and serve immediately, or chill to serve later. This recipe also works well with grilled asparagus spears.

Nutrient analysis for one serving: 92 calories, 8 g protein, 7 g carbohydrates, 4 g total fat, 1 g saturated fat, 2 g monounsaturated fat, 150 mg omega-3s, 3 g fiber, 3 g sugar, 661 mg sodium

Tangy Mustard Dressing     

This addictive dressing goes together in a flash. The best surprise is that there is no added oil. It’s great on salad or as a condiment for grilled salmon or chicken.

Makes 1 1/2 cups

Ingredients:
3/4 cup silken tofu
1/4 cup white miso
1/4 cup unseasoned rice wine vinegar
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon agave nectar or brown rice syrup
2 cloves garlic
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce  
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:
Combine all of the ingredients in the jar of a blender or bowl of a food processor. Blend or process until smooth.
Nutrient analysis for2 tablespoons: 39 calories, 2 g protein, 6 g carbohydrates, 1 g total fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 mg monounsaturated fat, 0 mg omega-3s, 1 g fiber, 3 g sugar, 373 mg sodium

Simple Health Tips

• Sip Oolong Tea

  Research suggests that people with mild eczema who drink oolong tea three times a day may show improvement in itching and other symptoms. Compounds in the tea called polyphenols appear to be responsible.

Go Herbal

For varicose veins, try horse chestnut, an herbal extract that's been shown in studies to strengthen veins and reduce swelling. The herb is also available in topical creams, though there's not as much evidence for these.

Rub Your Temples

Tame tension headaches by rubbing peppermint oil, Tiger Balm, or white flower oil into your temples. All three remedies contain menthol, which has analgesic properties.

Enjoy Ginger

The volatile oils in ginger have long made it a useful herbal remedy for nasal and chest congestion. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over a 1-inch piece of peeled, grated ginger; steep for 10 minutes; and strain. Add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper to the water and drink as needed.

Get a Good Pair of Sneakers

Is your energy lagging? Though it may be the last thing you feel like doing when you're tired, exercise -- even a brisk walk -- can be more effective than a nap or cup of coffee at fighting fatigue.

Sniff Rosemary

According to some research, catching a whiff of this aromatic herb may increase alertness and improve memory. To stay sharp, try smelling fresh rosemary or inhaling the scent of rosemary essential oil before a test or meeting.

Embrace Bitters

Combat a yen for sugar by following a Chinese medicine approach: Eat foods such as endive, radicchio, cooked greens, and olives.

Go Fish

If you suffer from dry eyes, up your seafood intake. Salmon, sardines, and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids, which the body uses to produce tears, among other things. Research suggests that people who consume higher amounts of these fats are less likely to have dry eyes.

Pop a Probiotic

To keep yeast infections at bay, head for the vitamin aisle. Supplementing with "good" bacteria (for example, Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium) may help restore the balance the of bacteria living in the female genital tract and inhibit the growth of yeast in women with recurrent infections. Foods such as naturally fermented sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir, as well as yogurt with active cultures, also contain these bacteria.

Benefit From Bilberry

Studies are mixed, but some have found that bilberry, a relative of the blueberry, may improve night vision. During World War II, fighter pilots reported better night vision after eating bilberry jam. Take 25 to 50 milligrams of bilberry extract; expect best results within the first few hours.

Eat Bananas

People whose diets are rich in potassium may be less prone to high blood pressure. Besides reducing sodium and taking other heart-healthy steps, eat potassium-packed picks such as bananas, cantaloupe, and oranges.

Love Lavender

To ease stress and prepare for bed, soak in a hot bath spiked with a few drops of lavender essential oil. Play soothing music while you bathe to unwind further.

Keep Capsaicin Cream on Hand

For sore muscles and joints, apply a cream or ointment that contains capsaicin, the active ingredient in chile peppers, two or three times a day. The heat from the peppers has been shown to help relieve pain.

Get a Massage

Certain trigger points -- spots of tension in musculoskeletal tissue -- can cause back pain. Ask a massage therapist or other bodyworker who specializes in myofascial release or neuromuscular therapy to focus on these points during a massage.

Go for Garlic

Adding raw or lightly cooked garlic and onions to your meals may help keep you healthy this winter. Both foods appear to possess antiviral and antibacterial properties and are believed to boost immunity.

Try Tea Tree Oil

For athlete's foot, reach for tea tree oil, an extract of the leaves of an Australian tree. It appears to have antiseptic properties and may work as well as or better than over-the-counter antifungal products. Apply a light coating of the oil to affected areas two to three times a day; continue for a week or two after symptoms disappear.

Take Tulsi

Research suggests that this Ayurvedic herb, also called holy basil, may help manage levels of the stress hormone cortisol, helping to boost your mood. Look for teas and supplements in health-food stores and follow package directions.

Eat Avocados

For dry skin, incorporate more avocados into your diet. They're rich in monounsaturated fat and vitamin E, both of which promote healthy skin. Try them on salads and sandwiches, and even in smoothies.

Keep Echinacea Close

If you feel a cold coming on, consider reaching for this age-old remedy. A 2007 meta-analysis showed that the herb can reduce cold symptoms. Aim for three grams daily in tincture or capsule form, starting at the first sign of symptoms.

Invest in a Neti Pot

Plagued with sinus problems? Rinse your nasal passages twice a day to flush out pollen and other irritants. Put saline solution (a 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1 cup warm water) in a plastic squirt bottle or a nasal irrigator, a spouted container that allows you to pour water directly into your nose. The solution should fill your nasal cavity and spill out the other nostril. Gently blow your nose afterward.