All About Cocos de mer
Known as the “love nut” of the Seychelles, the elusive Cocos de mer is a fascinating fruit that warrants further exploration.
Unique Characteristics of the Coco de mer
Endemic to the islands of Seychelles, specifically to just two islands – Praslin and Curieuse, Coco de mer or Lodoicea, has several interesting characteristics that set it apart from common types of fruit. One of the fruit’s unique aspects lies in its famous suggestive shape. With its flirtatious silhouette, the Coco de mer has been dubbed the ‘love nut’. This talisman of love fruit has a shapely bottom half and a smooth, curved top portion, similar to a woman’s hips and derrière.
Aside from its distinctive look, the Cocos de mer also holds the title of largest seed in the plant kingdom. A fully grown Cocos de mer seed can weigh up to 30 kilograms. Science Alert details how the fruit’s external shell offers protection against both dehydration and saltwater while adrift in the ocean.
Coco de mer’s Health Benefits
Aside from its iconic figure and weight, Cocos de mer also piques interest for its plethora of health benefits. These fruits are loaded with fibre, offering significant support for digestive health, including gut-friendly bacteria. The nutrients found in Cocos de mer, such as phosphorus, protein, and magnesium, also aid in strengthening the immune system.
Moreover, the Cocos de mer, like many of its tropical fruit relatives, is rich in antioxidants. According to Healthline, antioxidants help defend your cells from harmful free radicals, thus potentially aiding in preventing chronic conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.
Lastly, incorporating Coco de mer into your diet could help you maintain a healthy weight. Thanks to the fruit’s high fibre content and slow-digesting carbs, you’re likely to feel full for an extended period, thus preventing overeating.
So, despite its risqué appearance, it’s clear that the Coco de mer offers an array of far-reaching benefits both for human health and for the intrigue it sparks in botanists and fruit enthusiasts the world over. Why settle for an ordinary fruit salad when this exotic love nut can add an unexpected twist?
