The History of Coconuts

The modern coconut as we know it was known to have existed 37 to 57 million years ago during the Eocene Period in India and Australia. The origin of the coconut plant is the subject of debate since some scientific research suggests the Pacific Ocean or Indian Ocean. While others see the origin in north western South America since the ‘Nipa’ fruit which is one example of an older palm fossil that has been found.

Coconut palms are the most familiar palm from the tropic which used to be a wild plant and has been spread by human activity and currents in the ocean. In the present day it has become a part of everyday life in many places for its resources like food, shelter and fuel.

Coconuts were even used as currency for the purchase of goods right up till the beginning of the 20th century, on the Nicobar Island (Indian Ocean). Coconut palms were mentioned in written scripts 2,000 years ago in India.

How did the coconut get its name?

The Coconut is believed to have gotten its name in the 16^th Century, in Portuguese ‘Coco’ means ‘Monkey face’. This is because the three holes found at the base of the coconut have a resemblance to monkey’s facial features.

The modern coconut as we know, known to have existed during the Eocene Period (37 to 57 millions years ago) which was found in India and Australia. However, the origin of the coconut plant is the subject of debate since some scientific research suggests an Indo-Pacific origin (Pacific Ocean or Indian Ocean). While others see the origin in north western South America since the ‘Nipa’ fruit which is one example of an older palm fossil that has been found in the Americas.