Koh Samui is one of the most coconut-rich islands in the region. The export of coconuts is one of the island’s key sources of income, second only to tourism. According to locals, just 30 years ago, Samui was essentially one vast coconut plantation. Today, rapid and widespread construction has significantly altered its landscape.
The island is home to several coconut farms that process coconuts. When a coconut falls to the ground, it quickly begins to sprout, turning into a small palm tree. Freshly harvested and exported coconuts are used for food production. Local farms specialize in coconut oil.
Collected coconuts are dried in the sun. Then, they are peeled, removing the outer layer and fibers — coir. After that, a machete is used to strike the coconut along its equator, splitting it into two halves.
Both halves must dry properly — either for several weeks in the sun or in a well-ventilated shaded area. Once dried, the coconut meat is separated and sent to a centrifuge to extract unfiltered coconut oil, which is widely used in cosmetics. The coconut shell is no longer needed and is burned.
This delicate and fragrant coconut oil is used for body and facial massages as a nourishing cream substitute (suitable for all skin types). Thai women claim that their soft, smooth, and wrinkle-free skin, along with thick, shiny hair, is all thanks to it. I’m testing it out myself:)