In Case You Ever Run Out of IV Bags, Use a Coconut Instead

While coconuts are the new go-to drink of health buffs, they can apparently also be used as an all-natural IV bag.

Let’s take things back a notch. According to io9, Coconuts are rumored to have been the makeshift IV drips used to rehydrate patients during World War II and the Vietnam War. Both sides of the battle would collect coconuts before a fight, saving them for medical use to aid the wounded afterwards.

In a documented case of this fruit being utilized in recent history, a small hospital in the Solomon Islands once revived a man who was suffering from partial paralysis and a fever. The patient was unable to take in fluids but the hospital had a low supply of IV bags. Luckily, one of the man’s relatives climbed a coconut tree and retrieved a coconut, being careful not to puncture the outer husk. After part of the husk was peeled away, the eyes of the coconut were exposed and doctors were able to jab a large needle through it. An IV tube was attached to the opening and connected to the patient, allowing him to remain hydrated by the coconut’s water. The man recovered and went home after just two days.

Hangover clinic, take note.

H/T iO9