18 THE COCONUT AND ITS PRODUCTS 



sailing boats, rafters, laths, etc. Hollowed-out 

 stems are used as channels, gutters, etc., and are 

 largely employed in building operations among 

 the natives. The wood is also susceptible of a high 

 polish and, under the name of porcupine wood, is 

 imported into this country for use in cabinet 

 making. 



The bark yields a strong, cohesive gum. 



The husk makes valuable manure, rich in potash 

 and phosphoric acid. 



The leaves furnish excellent roofing material, 

 mats, baskets, brooms, fodder for cattle, and 

 manure. When burnt they produce an ash so rich 

 in potash that it provides a good substitute for 

 soap. 



The nut, when young, supplies a delicious 

 cooling drink and an attractive dessert. It is also an 

 ingredient for curry. 



The green husk makes a toothsome preserve. 



The young leaves are used for making a piquant 

 pickle. 



The early shoots of the seedling form a delicious 

 vegetable. 



The stump produces a juice called toddy ; the 

 natives, to obtain it, make an incision in the stump 

 and beat it until the juice flows. This ferments 

 rapidly until it is transformed into palm wine. 

 The juice contains a strong intoxicant called 

 arrack, and native bakers use it instead of yeast. 



