During my recent visit to a friend’s farm, I stood under this tall coconut tree and learned so much from it I was moved to take a picture of it .
At first glance, it’s just a tree reaching for the skies but the more I observed and the more i ask for peoples opinion on how long this coconut tree has been there I see that it carries powerful lessons for life.
Every part of it is useful the fruit provides a sweet white water and as well a nourishing fruit to eat, the shell can be used for tools in decoration, the leaves serve as shade or even as roofing material in rural areas where there is no access to metallic sheet, the trunk can be turned into timber. In summary nothing goes into a waste.
It reminded me of how life works that when we grow with purpose, we add value in many ways, not just for ourselves but for others too.
It also reminded me that in life when we live with big intention every part of us our talents, experiences, even struggles can be used for good.
The tree also taught me to be patient that it takes years before it starts bearing fruit, but once it does it keeps being for many years even thousand of years. Standing tall against the sky, this tree is a reminder that true growth takes time, but the results are always worth it.
And perhaps the most amazing thing is that despite being tall and a little bit tin the tree stands firm against heavy winds because its roots is deep within the soil.
It’s a reminder for me that in life storms will come but if we’re deeply rooted we won’t be easily shaken.
I came across this plant also in which many people always quickly dismiss as weed.
But when I looked closer, I learned it’s actually a plant with a lot of hidden value it’s called Sida acuta leave also known popular in Ibadan land in Nigeria as (osekotu leave).
At first glance, it’s just a weed with small yellow flowers. But in many places, people have used it for generations. The leaves and roots are used for teas or herbal drinks for fever, stomach problems, and even for treating wound. Farmers sometimes use it as fodder for animals such as cows , and its strong roots help protect the soil from erosion.
What I found most interesting is how something most people overlook can actually be so useful. It made me think about how often we underestimate the simple things around us.
Of course, like with any traditional plant, it should be used wisely always with proper knowledge or guidance. But still, it’s amazing to realize that nature hides treasures in plain such as this. 🌱 The plant usefulness are as follows:
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For malaria – The leaves are boiled and taken as a tea to help reduce fever and treat malaria.
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For stomach issues – It’s used for diarrhea and used for stomach upset.
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For wounds & skin problems – The grinded fresh leaves are applied directly to cuts ,boils , or swellings to fasten healing.