Coconut milk (Cocos nucifera)
Synopsis of coconut milk
Coconut milk is a rich, creamy liquid extracted from the grated pulp of mature coconuts (Cocos nucifera). Unlike coconut water, which is the clear fluid found inside the coconut, coconut milk is produced by blending the white flesh with water and straining it to produce a thick, white emulsion. It contains a unique combination of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), lauric acid, electrolytes, and antioxidants, making it both a nutritious food and a valuable component in traditional medicine and modern wellness.
Coconut milk is best known for its content of healthy fats, particularly lauric acid, which has been studied for its antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. These fats are rapidly absorbed and used for energy, making coconut milk a popular choice in keto and paleo diets, as well as in digestive and neurological support protocols. Its MCT content may aid in weight management, cognitive performance, and metabolic function.
In addition to fats, coconut milk provides small amounts of vitamins C, E, and B-complex, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, contributing to its role in supporting hydration, heart health, and red blood cell formation. It is also soothing to the digestive tract and often included in elimination diets or anti-inflammatory protocols for individuals with sensitivities to dairy or soy.
Coconut milk is commonly used in culinary and medicinal applications for hydration, nourishment, immune support, and energy balance. It is especially useful for those seeking a dairy-free alternative with functional benefits.
Historical Use
Cocos nucifera, the coconut palm, has been referred to as the “tree of life” in many tropical cultures, with its various parts used for food, medicine, building material, and fuel. Coconut milk has been a staple ingredient in Southeast Asian, Pacific Island, Indian, and African cuisines and traditional medicine systems for centuries.
In Ayurveda, coconut and its milk are classified as cooling, nourishing, and sweet, making them ideal for pacifying excess pitta (heat) and vata (dryness). Coconut milk was traditionally used to soothe inflammation, support skin health, calm the nervous system, and aid in recovery from illness or fever. It was also blended with herbs to create tonics for urinary tract health, reproductive balance, and general nourishment, especially during pregnancy and lactation.
In Polynesian and Pacific Island medicine, coconut milk was consumed to build strength, maintain hydration, and support digestive and immune health. It was also applied topically to moisturize skin, treat burns and rashes, and support wound healing. Combined with other native plants, it featured prominently in both culinary and healing rituals.
In traditional Southeast Asian healing, coconut milk was used in soups and herbal infusions to reduce inflammation, clear toxins, and restore energy, especially in the wake of infections or digestive upset.
Today, coconut milk remains a valued ingredient in both nutritional therapy and culinary medicine, known not only for its taste and texture but also for its wide-ranging support for metabolism, immunity, digestion, and overall vitality.
Coconut milk is used for these health conditions
Parasites (tapeworm) (Traditional)
Acid Indigestion (Traditional)
Anemia (Traditional)
Bladder Infection (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Canker Sores (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (prevention) (Traditional)
Colds (with fever) (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Traditional)
Constipation (children) (Traditional)
Dehydration (Traditional)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Dizziness (Traditional)
Eczema (Traditional)
Energy (lack of) (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Free Radical Damage (Scientific)
Gas and Bloating (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Gingivitis (Traditional)
coconut milk is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)