How the coconut travelled across the world

I f there was ever a contest for the most multifaceted member of the plant kingdom, the coconut from the tropical coconut palm tree would probably win hands down. Its flesh is food, its water quenches thirst and cures illnesses, its leaves are woven into thatched roofs and handicrafts, its coir is turned into ropes and mats, its shell is crafted into cups, cooking vessels, and even musical instruments… every part has been put to use by thrifty humans. Its story is so entangled in ours that few people pause to wonder just how this mighty ‘nut’ first came into our lives.