How Is The Coconut Palm Used?

A delectable salad is prepared from its growing bud, located high in the tree's top. This tightly packed bundle of cabbage-like leaves is about the size of a man's forearm. It might be called the "heart," for when it is cut or damaged the whole tree dies. So a salad made from it is an expensive treat!
The gigantic palm leaves are used in many ways. One authority says that with a hundred of them a spacious dwelling can be constructed. The thatch roof, walls, partitions between rooms, windows and doors are all made of the leaves, as well as baskets, mats, fans, brooms and other items used in the house. Clothing, such as skirts and hats, is also made from the leaves. And they can be utilized as torches and firewood.

A remarkable drink is obtained from the unopened flower buds. When a clump of them are bound tightly, cut and bent over into a container, they begin to drip steadily drops of sweet juice called toddy—several pints of it a day. When the liquid is permitted to ferment, it makes an alcoholic drink. Or it can be boiled down to produce a fine syrup to use on bread or pancakes. And if it is left a few weeks it becomes a good vinegar.