Comparative Analysis of Water in Tender and Matured Coconut Fruits and Use as Oral Rehydration Solution

Abstract

In this research, comparative analysis of the amount of sodium, chloride and glucose present in coconut water of both tender and matured coconut fruits were done and compared with that of commercially available oral rehydration salt. Sodium in combined state, as sodium chloride is an active element for rehydration. It has ability to absorb water into the gut mucosa and aid the flow of fluid back into the body. Amount of sodium was determined using Flame emission Spectrophotometer. Chloride was determined by Mohr’s titration method and amount of glucose was determined using Lane and Eyon titration method. The result of the analysis revealed the potency of coconut water as a readily available oral rehydration solution for oral rehydration therapy. The tender coconut is most suitable, having relatively close amount of sodium, chloride and glucose with that of the commercially available salt. The mature coconut has higher concentration of glucose compare with that of commercially available oral rehydration salt

Keywords: Flame Emission Spectrophotometer, Coconut water, Oral Rehydration Solution, Titration methods.