A comparative mini review of the phytochemicals and biological properties of haustorium and endosperm of Cocos nucifera

Natural substances derived from plants and herbs are excellent sources of therapeutic drugs, offering numerous vital properties that benefit human health. Recently, there has been increased interest in utilizing natural products. One notable plant with significant nutraceutical and health benefits is the coconut tree (Cocos nucifera). Humans use various products from the coconut tree, such as coconut oil, water, and husk. Previous research has extensively explored coconut fruit’s endosperm’s nutritional, antioxidant, and phytochemical properties. However, there are limited studies on the phytochemical and nutraceutical attributes of the coconut haustorium, an edible part of the fruit. The coconut haustorium possesses considerable benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal, antimicrobial, antitumor, analgesic, antipyretic, antidiarrheal, and antidiabetic properties. This review aims to summarize and compare the phytochemical and nutraceutical properties of the coconut haustorium with those of its endosperm. The findings conclude that the coconut haustorium exhibits outstanding nutraceutical and phytochemical properties comparable to the endosperm.