(Seychelles News Agency) - The coconut tree is not known as the "tree of life" for nothing. It provides those living in this island nation with food, shelter and raw materials. Coconut trees can be found all over Seychelles, but how much do we know about its medicinal uses? After all, every part of the tree can be used as natural remedies for various ailments. SNA takes a look at some medicinal uses of this palm tree in the island nation.

1.  Coconut oil

Extracted from the dried kernel, coconut oil can be used to treat fever and headaches. Rubbing a blend of the coconut oil and cinnamon oil or mentholatum over your temples and back will help you sweat out the illness.

It can also be used for de-worming. The oil, which has to come from ripe coconut flesh, destroys hook worm and ring worm. Adults and children can consume one teaspoon in the morning and evening.

It is also popular among people growing their natural hair as it is good for dandruff. Your hair will also thank you for the treatment. The oil is traditionally used to protect the body against various forms of cancer and is a good laxative for improving digestion and bowel function.

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2.   Coconut milk

This is not only good in your food, it can also be used to treat certain eye infections by using it to rinse the infected area.

Got a sore throat? It is recommended to drink two tablespoons of coconut milk three times a day. Be careful! Don’t overdo it as it might upset your tummy.

If you are suffering from constipation, drinking half a glass of coconut milk will do the trick.

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3.   Coconut leaves

They are good for relieving muscular pain. Collect some leaves from the heart of the tree, boil them and down the brew. Another way to cure the ache is to bathe in the mixture.

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4.    Coconut flower

According to the elderly, drinking a cooled concoction made from boiling a bunch of coconut flower is good for some kidney related diseases. 

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5.    Coconut water

The liquid obtained from breaking the coconut in half is said to do wonders for people suffering from urinary problems. It is an energizing drink,--said to be good for kidney and bladder related diseases as well. With a high electrolyte content, coconut water contains potassium and natural Vitamin C. It has a calming effect on stomach aches.

Been under the sun for too long? Take a glass of coconut water, cover it tightly with a cloth so that the water does not leak, and apply it to the affected area. It is said that the water absorbs the heat. This treatment should be done daily until the water no longer ‘bubbles’ after application.

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6.    Coconut roots

The roots can be used to treat gall bladder and urinary infections as well as kidney related diseases. Boil four or five well-washed roots in some lightly salted water and drink when cool. For those suffering from eczema, wash the area with the mixture using around 450 grammes of roots. For Fibrosis, boil three to five finger-long pieces of roots and drink it for a few days. It helps melt clotted blood. The roots can also be used to treat heartburns. 

(Mikhail Esteves/Flickr) Photo License: (CC BY 2.0)

7.      Young coconut

Young, green coconuts can be used to treat abdominal pains. Break one open, heat it and eat the inside of the fruit. The pain should go away.

(yasmapaz & ace_heart/Flickr) Photo License: Photo License: (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Source: National Heritage Research and Protection Section and http://www.medicalhealthguide.com/articles/coconut.htm