Lifestyle Desk : Published: 03 June 2025
Date palm juice is a very well-known name in Bangladesh. Drinking date palm juice in winter, making jaggery or using date palm jaggery in stews has become a part of our culture. But many people do not know that juice is also available from coconut trees. This juice is as healthy as its uses are diverse. However, it is still an unknown and neglected resource for many.
How is coconut tree juice obtained?
Coconut sap is usually obtained from the flower buds or fronds of the tree. This process is called 'tapping'. It involves cutting the flower buds and extracting the sap, similar to the process of collecting sap from date palms.
A small pot or pitcher is tied to the mocha by cutting it.
From there, a sweet, clear juice slowly oozes out – which is called Coconut Neera.
This juice is collected in the early morning, because it ferments quickly when the temperature rises.
Nutritional values and health benefits
Coconut juice or Neera is considered a natural energy drink. It contains:
Natural sugar (Sucrose, Fructose, Glucose)
Vitamin B-complex
Calcium, magnesium, potassium
Low in calories – relatively safe for diabetics
It can be helpful in controlling blood pressure, aiding digestion, and relieving fatigue.
What is made from coconut juice?
1. Coconut Jaggery:
Jaggery is made from coconut juice thickened with fire, which looks similar to date jaggery but tastes different.
Coconut syrup and vinegar:
In some countries, syrup, jam, and vinegar are made from coconut juice.
Neera Drink:
It is also consumed directly as a beverage after cooling. When fermented, it produces palm wine, which is used as a local liquor in some regions.
Read more: Coconut milk: The key to beauty
In which countries is coconut juice popular?
India (Kerala, Andhra Pradesh), Philippines, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
In these countries, coconut juice is used to make neera, jaggery, and other products commercially.
Challenges and potential of coconut juice
Challenge:
Collecting sap from coconut trees is difficult and time-consuming.
Storage problems due to rapid fermentation
There is still a lack of awareness among farmers.
Possibilities:
Used in making alternative confectionery products
Creating a market as a natural healthy drink
Source of additional income for coconut farmers
Read more: Knowing the benefits of dried coconut will make your eyes water.
It is true that coconut juice is obtained from coconut trees, and this juice has immense nutritional value and economic potential. If this technology and knowledge can be used properly in Bangladesh, coconut juice can be another national resource. What is needed now is awareness, research and commercial initiatives.
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